About Mainland:

Mainland is the area outside of the free zones with the Department of Economic Development (DED) being the regulatory authority for the issuance of mainland licenses. Mainland companies are allowed to carry out business without restrictions throughout the UAE and internationally.

A local sponsor is no longer needed to get a Dubai mainland license for around 1000 commercial and industrial activities.

Advantages:
  • Freedom to rent commercial space in any area
  • Ability to conduct a wide range of business activities
  • Option to trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • No currency restriction
  • Easy employment visa processing
  • Advantage of bidding on government projects
  • Ability to open a corporate bank account easily

Popular Licenses

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License types and activities:

A Mainland company formation offers more than 3000 business activities listed in the UAE. The business activity, company structure and jurisdiction of operation will determine the license and other applicable requirements.
For more details on business activities, reach out to us.

Commercial License

A Commercial License is required in the UAE for businesses involved in trading and supplying of goods such as:

  • Mobile phones & accessories trading
  • Building material, cleaning and safety equipment trading
  • Oil & gas, chemicals trading
  • Automobiles, spare parts trading
  • Gold & precious metals trading

Industrial License

An Industrial license is required in the UAE for manufacturing or other types of industrial activities such as:

  • Garments, uniforms manufacturing
  • Meat, dairy products manufacturing
  • Animal & birds feed manufacturing, fishing net making
  • Pastry & sweets manufacturing, mineral water bottling
  • Fabrics & textiles embroidery, carpets manufacturing

Professional License

A Professional License is required in the UAE for individuals or business groups that deliver expertise as a service to the public such as:

  • Computer, IT infrastructure consultancies
  • Insurance, tax, legal consultancies
  • Marketing consultancies, public relations management
  • Auditing & accounting
  • Waste management & recycling consultancy

Process for mainland license

  • Choose business activity
  • Choose company structure
  • Get trade name approval
  • Get initial license approval
  • Get external approval (if required)
  • License issuance
  • Open company bank account
  • Get establishment card
  • Labour file
  • Process visa