Over 30,000 newly opened companies incorporated into Dubai Mainland in 2023, a 43% rise in the establishments of the business sectors such as retail, technology, and hospitality. Just like every other country in the world, the Mainland company gives access to the dynamic local market of the UAE and an opportunity present in worldwide trade.
The UAE comprises several Mainland jurisdictions across its emirates, each offering unique advantages for business setup. These include the Abu Dhabi Mainland, Dubai Mainland, Sharjah Mainland, Ajman Mainland, Umm Al Quwain Mainland, Ras Al Khaimah Mainland, and Fujairah Mainland.
A single license for many activities.
Make selection from over 2,000 activities, ranging from e-commerce to manufacturing in all industries.
A lot of warehouses, industrial plots, and offices.
Accessibility to very attractive public sector projects such as Dubai’s Expo City developments
Mainland company setup is ideal for businesses that want maximum flexibility and access to the broader UAE market. Unlike freezones, mainland companies can trade directly with the UAE market without the need for a local distributor, and they are also allowed to bid for government projects—something freezone companies cannot do. Foreign investors can now own 100% of a mainland business in many sectors, thanks to recent regulatory reforms, making it a strong option for long-term growth.
Mainland businesses benefit from a wide range of office locations across the UAE, no restrictions on the number of visas (depending on office size), and the freedom to expand across the region. With access to local and international clients, minimal restrictions on business activities, and the ability to operate anywhere in the UAE, mainland setups are perfect for companies aiming to scale fast and stay competitive.
Company incorporation in Dubai mainland thrives under a myriad of legal frameworks that lay an easy track for compliance and spur development:
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the company setup process in the UAE.
Follow these six essential steps to get your business up and running smoothly.
Step 4
Helping entrepreneurs build and grow in the UAE with complete support, expert guidance, and reliable partnerships.
From choosing the right jurisdiction to post-setup compliance—we’re with you throughout.
We tailor your company structure to match your industry, goals, and growth plans.
No paperwork stress—we handle all approvals, licensing, and formalities on your behalf.
We prioritize speed without compromising accuracy, so you can launch sooner.
A single point of contact for all your queries, updates, and coordination.
Businesses across sectors rely on BYB for smooth, strategic setups in the UAE.
Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are:
Anywhere in UAE (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi)
Designated Area (e.g., Jafza, DMCC)
Specialized financial hubs (e.g., DIFC, ADGM)
Full access to UAE local market and global trade
Freezone and global trade; limited local access
Global financial markets; limited local UAE market access
100% foreign in most sectors
100% foreign in most sectors
100% foreign in most sectors
9% corporate tax on profits > AED 375,000
0% tax; 9% if profits > AED 375,000
0% corporate tax; 9% if profits > AED 375,000; specific tax incentives for finance
Mandatory (Ejari-registered office) and flexible option available
Optional (flexi-desks in some Freezones)
Optional (flexi-desks in some Freezones)
Starts at AED 15,000*
Starts at AED 6000*
Starts at AED 25,000*
Higher quotas based on office size
Limited visas; varies by Freezone
Moderate visas; tied to office size and business type
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million.
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million or as stipulated under the laws of the Free Zone.
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million or as stipulated under the laws of the Free Zone.
Regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other government bodies.
Governed by the respective Free Zone Authority (FZA).
Governed by respective free zone authority. Regulated activities governed by Independent Regulatory Bodies.
Local market focus, scalability
International trade, tax efficiency
Financial Services, Banking, Wealth Management, Holding Company, Finance, Crypto.
Manage all your social channels, ensure customer supremacy engagement, track your performance and more—all from a single platform
As of June 1, 2023:
The old FDI Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 19 of 2018) has been changed, and the Positive List is no longer valid. The amended Commercial Companies Law (Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020) now sets the rules for foreign ownership. It lets local governments decide what the UAE needs to own in important areas.
Yes. According to Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, FDI projects can get Golden Visas (10 years) for important workers like:
Yes. According to Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2021, these areas are “strategic impact sectors.” Foreign ownership is allowed if the right government agencies give their approval.
In some economic activities, full foreign ownership is allowed, but only with the approval of local authorities and the right sector classification.
It usually takes 5 to 10 working days to get a business license in the UAE mainland. The amount of time it takes depends on the emirate, the type of business, and how ready the documents are. If the activities are complicated and need special approvals, the process could take 15 to 25 working days.
Depending on the bank, the type of business, and how complete the documents are, it usually takes 4 to 5 weeks to open a business bank account in the UAE mainland. Companies based on the mainland usually process things faster than those based in offshore or free zones. Timelines may be as long as two months for complicated structures or high-risk sectors.
Yes, companies registered in financial free zones generally find it easier to open bank accounts due to strong regulatory frameworks and transparency standards.
Once all the required documents are sent in and approved by the right authorities, it usually takes 5 to 10 business days to get an employment or investor visa in the UAE mainland (Post issuance of license and establishment card). Depending on the emirate and the type of visa, timelines may be pushed back by 2 to 3 weeks if more approvals or attestations are needed.
The government authority does not directly offer VIP services. However Corporate service providers like BYB can offer VIP business setup services that expedite the processing of licenses, visas, and bank account openings. These high-end services often include priority handling, personalized help, and extra services like document attestation, pick-up and drop-off, and concierge services.
An investor does not have to be in the UAE in person to set up a business there. If all the necessary paperwork is sent in and power of attorney is given if needed, a registered agent or service provider can finish the process from a distance. But depending on the emirate and the bank’s rules, you may need to be there in person to do some things, like sign certain papers or open a bank account.
It is usually not hard to open a corporate bank account in the UAE mainland, but it depends on the bank, the type of business, and availability of the documents. You need to send in company documents, shareholder information, and proof that your business is active. Banks requires authorized signatory to visit in person for KYC verification. It’s pretty easy with all the paperwork, but complicated business structures or high-risk sectors may have to go through more checks, which could slow things down.
BYB (Build Your Business) is a specialized firm focused on building the foundation for businesses to operate globally. We provide clear guidance and practical support to individuals and companies on how to properly establish their business, follow all rules, and design its structure to begin work in different countries. Our deep knowledge includes how to stay compliant in various nations, selecting the best legal setup, and making smart choices about local business environments. We help get registrations, explain tax requirements, and put in place the basic systems for running an office. BYB is an essential partner for those starting international businesses, making sure they have a solid and rule-abiding base from the very beginning.
1209, The Regal Towers, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
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