Setting up a business in UAE mainland involves a series of steps. Let us give you a clear understanding of what to expect and experience unparalleled support for your UAE Mainland business setup with FRTZ Corporate Services team.
A mainland company is an onshore entity established outside the Free Zone areas. It can be operated by a sole owner or have between two and 50 partners, and is permitted to conduct nearly all types of business activities.
In the past, establishing a mainland company required a sponsor—either a UAE national or a local legal entity—who would need to hold at least 51% of the shares. However, following legislative changes on June 1, 2021, foreign investors are now allowed to fully own their companies. A local sponsor is only necessary when engaging in business within critical sectors such as national security, telecommunications, and banking and finance.
The main competitive advantage of a local company over other types of organisations in the UAE is the ability to conduct business anywhere in the world, including in all of the emirates.
A mainland company that is 100% foreign-owned can engage in more than 1,000 types of commercial and industrial activities — all you need to do is obtain the appropriate licences.
Local companies can apply to participate in large-scale projects by the UAE government, which annually offers private businesses the opportunity to sign contracts for substantial amounts of money.
The number of resident visas the company can provide depends on office sizes. To obtain more visas, all you would need to do is buy or rent a more spacious property.
You can easily expand your business in the UAE by opening new branches or offices in different emirates to cover a larger customer base.
There is no set requirement for the minimum capital investment — it depends solely on the legal form of the organisation.
Setting up a business in mainland UAE offers a wide range of permissible activities, allowing businesses to operate freely across the entire UAE market. Here are the primary categories of activities that can be registered:
Mainland companies in the UAE require a specific business license based on their chosen activity. The main types of licenses include:
Commercial License
Professional License
Industrial License
Tourism License
Choosing the right activity is crucial as it influences the licensing requirements, office space needs, and ownership structure. It’s advisable to consult with a UAE-based business advisor for tailored guidance based on the specific nature of your business.
We’re here to walk alongside you, providing expert insights and tailored solutions. Together, we can transform aspirations into achievements, turning potential into measurable success. Let us be your partner in unlocking opportunities and reaching new heights.
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