Why Form a Mainland Company in the UAE?
A mainland company formation in UAE is the perfect choice for entrepreneurs who want full access to the local market and the flexibility to expand internationally.
Why Choose Mainland?
Mainland companies enable you to operate anywhere across the UAE, access the local market, and participate in government projects. ‘Mainland’ refers to the areas outside the free zones. Companies established on the mainland are issued licences by the Department of Economy and Tourism.
No Trade Restrictions
Trade freely with other businesses and directly with consumers anywhere in the UAE.
Government Contracts
Eligible for lucrative government contracts and large-scale tenders.
Unlimited Visas
Visa eligibility scales based on your physical office space requirements.
Higher Credibility
Increased trust with clients, banks, and UAE government authorities.
“One of the best consultant company in UAE!” – Mohamed Ayed ★★★★★
Regional Excellence
Prime Mainland Locations
Strategic positioning across the Emirates allows your business to tap into specialized industrial hubs and world-class infrastructure.
Dubai
The global epicenter for finance, trade, and tourism, offering unparalleled luxury and infrastructure.
Abu Dhabi
The capital's industrial powerhouse, ideal for energy, defense, and high-level financial services.
Sharjah
A strategic gateway for manufacturing and logistics with cost-effective routes to the Northern Emirates.
Other Emirates
Customized advantages in Ajman, RAK, and Fujairah for specific niche industries and SME growth.
- Not sure which location fits your model?
- Consult our experts
Type of licenses
Commercial/Trading License
Import, export, wholesale, and retail trade of goods.
Professional/Service License
Consultancy, IT, accounting, marketing, engineering, and other professional services.
Industrial License
Manufacturing, light industrial activities, and production.
E-Trader License
Allows freelancers and entrepreneurs to legally conduct business from their place of residence in Dubai. Specifically tailored for individuals selling products or services through social media and online platforms.
- For more information on other types of licenses, you can refer to this
- Link
The Mainland Incorporation Path
Step-by-step guide to setting up your business venture.
Target market, costs, and proximity evaluation.
When deciding where to establish your mainland company, consider factors such as your target market, industry requirements, operational costs, and proximity to suppliers or clients. Aligning your business objectives with the strengths of each emirate will help you maximize growth and efficiency. Our team helps you select the most suitable location based all this factors.
Choose your Company’s Legal Structure & Define your Activities
The second step in setting up a mainland company is to define your business activities and select a suitable legal structure. Your chosen activities will determine the type of license you need and can influence your legal requirements, office space, and operational permissions.
- LLC (Limited Liability Company): Most common option for businesses with multiple partners.
- Sole Establishment: Ideal for individuals conducting professional activities.
- Civil Company: For professional services with multiple owners.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Allows foreign companies to operate directly in the UAE.
- General or Limited Partnership
- Private or Public Join Stock Company
Select a Trade Name and Obtain Initial Approval
Next, choose a unique trade name and get initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) to confirm your business activity and structure.
Usual Documents that are required:
- Passport copies of shareholder/s
- Copy of the applicant’s residence visa or entry permit (if any)
- Emirates ID (if any)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if shareholders are on a UAE visa
Ejari (Dubai) or Tawtheeq (Abu Dhabi) registration.
Mainland companies are required to have a physical office. Depending on your business activity, virtual offices may also be acceptable.
- Dubai: Register the lease with Ejari
- Abu Dhabi: Register the lease with Tawtheeq
Office Options:
- Flexi-desk
- Small offices
- Full commercial office spaces
Note: If a physical office is leased, a 5% fee is payable to the DED, usually included in the license cost.
Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association (MoA)
The MoA outlines your company’s structure, ownership, and business activities. It must be drafted carefully and notarized to comply with UAE regulations.
Submit Documents and Obtain Your Trade License
Submit all required documents to the DED, including:
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name certificate
- Lease agreement
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent agreement (LSA)
Apply for an Establishment Card (MOHRE)
The Establishment Card is mandatory for processing UAE visas for employees. You must register with the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Timeframe: 2–3 days
Open a Bank Account
Opening a corporate bank account for a mainland company follows the same process as for free zone companies. Banks typically require the trade license, MoA, and shareholder documents. To read more about the bank account opening process click here.
Ongoing Compliance
Once your mainland company is operational, you must comply with several ongoing requirements to maintain your license in good standing and avoid regulatory penalties.
Financial Threshold
VAT registration is mandatory if your business revenue exceeds AED 375,000 per annum.
- Annual license renewal
- Annual lease renewal
- Corporate Tax Registration
- VAT registration (if over threshold)
- Bookkeeping & accounting
- Annual audits
Client Experiences
Real stories of business growth and seamless transitions in the UAE mainland ecosystem.
5.0 Overall Rating
“I received my Dubai visa within a week hours … I’m impressed by their professionalism and quick replies.”
Roshan Poyyaparambill
Client
“We had an excellent experience working with Altus Citadel Services DMCC on a Golden Visa application for a client. The case was far from straightforward, involving several time-sensitive and complex elements, yet the team handled everything with great professionalism, responsiveness, and care.
Anastasia Arg
Cleint
“Last time I visited Altus office and their services was very good and more quick.especailly. my friend Abu reffered me to connect with Altus for all UAE free zone related companies formations,
Their response towards my needs make me to visit again future. Hope you achieve your objectives and all the best for your future.”
Mohamad Ajmal Madambikattil
Client
comprehensive solutions
Our Dedicated Services
A structured 360-degree approach to ensuring your business setup is seamless, compliant, and positioned for rapid scaling.
Consultancy & Planning
Defining your business structure and strategic positioning.
- Advising on suitable locations (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.)
- Guidance on business activity & compliance
- Preparing initial approval applications
- Drafting & Notarizing MoA/LSA
Formation & Licensing
Official registration and document processing with authorities.
- Submitting documents to DED
- Trade license issuance coordination
- Registration of lease (Ejari/Tawtheeq)
- Establishment Card applications (MOHRE)
Growth & Support
Ongoing operational excellence and legal
adherence.
- Employee & Partner Visa assistance
- Bank Account opening support
- Ongoing Administration & Compliance
- Payroll and HR support
Ready to initiate your
Mainland journey?
A structured 360-degree approach to ensuring your business setup is seamless, compliant, and positioned for rapid scaling.