Dubai Mainland Company

Dubai Mainland License

A Dubai Mainland license allows entrepreneurs to operate their businesses both inside and outside the UAE. The Department of Economic Development (DED) is responsible for issuing trade licenses for mainland companies.

You can choose between a Professional License or a Commercial License under the Dubai Mainland framework. This type of license provides premium benefits, including:

    • Full foreign ownership of the company
    • Permission to conduct business anywhere within the UAE
    • Ability to own or lease office space in Dubai mainland
    • Eligibility to work with government entities
    • Fewer nationality restrictions when applying for a license
    • Simplified corporate bank account setup, especially with traditional banks
    • Enhanced scalability by adding more employee visas under the license
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Setting up a Dubai Mainland company does not necessarily require a physical office. Tashgheel’s co-working DED package offers a flexible, cost-effective solution to get your business up and running quickly.

Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License

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Freedom to Operate Anywhere

A Dubai Mainland License allows businesses to operate without geographical restrictions. Companies can trade across the UAE, within any free zone, and internationally.

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Enhanced Market Presence

This license enables you to establish a physical office anywhere in Dubai or the UAE, strengthening your brand visibility and providing the flexibility to expand operations and open multiple branches.

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Access to Government Contracts

Mainland companies can participate in government tenders and contracts. This opens doors to high-value projects, giving businesses the chance to secure lucrative and large-scale opportunities.

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No Currency Restrictions

There are no limitations on currency transactions. Companies can freely repatriate funds from both local and international accounts without restrictions.

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Unlimited Visa Quotas

Businesses operating under a mainland license can scale their workforce without strict visa limitations. While additional office space may be required as the team grows, expanding is simpler and more flexible than in other jurisdictions.

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Financial Benefits

Dubai Mainland companies enjoy similar advantages to Free Zone setups, including tax exemptions. Additionally, there is no minimum capital requirement, making it easier for entrepreneurs to start their business.

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Professional License

A Professional License is granted to individuals or companies offering specialized services that rely on skills, talent, or expertise. This includes fields such as accounting, consulting, design, tourism, and other professional services.

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Commercial License

The Commercial License is designed for companies engaged in trading, buying, and selling goods, commodities, or other trade activities within the UAE. It covers general and specialized traders as well as businesses in retail, construction, and real estate sectors.

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Tourism License

There are three types of licenses within the travel and tourism sector:
Local travel management within the city.
Sales of tourism packages beyond Dubai’s borders.
Organizing international meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

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Industrial License

This license allows companies to carry out industrial operations, including production, processing, assembly, and packaging. It is ideal for businesses that transform raw materials or resources into finished products.

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Business Activities Under Dubai Mainland License

Dubai is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for business, thanks to its streamlined setup processes and wide-ranging benefits that continue to draw investors and entrepreneurs from across the globe.
Tashgheel helps you select the most suitable business activities to maximize your company’s growth and compliance under a Dubai Mainland License.

Steps to Establish Your Business Under a Dubai Mainland License

1

Determine Your Business Activity and Legal Structure

Before starting, decide the category and nature of your business. The UAE offers over 1,500 business activities. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) oversees all business regulations and ensures your chosen activity is compliant.

2

Register Your Company Name with DED

Pick a distinctive name that does not conflict with existing businesses. After approval, register the name with the DED. This process usually takes about three days.

3

Apply for a Mainland Trade License

Once your company name is approved, submit your application for a mainland trade license. Certain commercial activities may require additional approvals. Tashgheel 360 can guide you through the required documentation and ensure a smooth application process.

4

Secure Office or Co-working Space

Mainland companies typically require a physical address. Options range from traditional office spaces to cost-effective co-working packages. All agreements, including tenancy contracts and RERA/EJARI documentation, should comply with DED regulations. Tashgheel 360 can help select the best space for your business needs.

5

Prepare Essential Documents (MoA & AoA)

The Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) outline shareholder rights, responsibilities, and company structure. Proper drafting is crucial. Our legal experts assist in creating accurate, compliant documents.

6

Pay Fees and Collect Your License

Once all approvals and documentation are complete, pay the required fees and receive your business license, officially allowing your company to operate in Dubai mainland.

7

Open a Corporate Bank Account

With your trade license in hand, open a corporate bank account to manage all financial transactions. Modern banking solutions make this process quick and seamless. Tashgheel 360 provides expert assistance to ensure everything is set up efficiently.