Name: Maju Management Consultancy - Bahrain
Address: Office No. 17, Building No. 56, Phoenicia Center, Block No. 326, Osama Bin Ziad Avenue, Adliya, Manama, Capital Governorate, BH
Telephone: +973 3803 0555
Price range: $$

Mainland

Business Setup in Dubai

Dubai Mainland Company Setup Made Easy | MajuBiz

What is a Dubai Mainland License?

A Dubai mainland license is issued by the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) and allows businesses to operate across Dubai and the wider UAE. It offers the flexibility to conduct trade both locally and internationally without being confined to a specific free zone. This makes Dubai mainland company setup the preferred choice for entrepreneurs seeking complete control and scalability.

Since 2021, 100% foreign ownership is permitted across most sectors — eliminating the need for a local sponsor. With MajuBiz, your Dubai commercial registration is handled professionally from start to finish, including trade name reservation, tenancy contracts (Ejari), and corporate bank account setup.

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Merits of Setting Up a Company in Dubai Mainland

Explore the key advantages of setting up a business in Dubai Mainland with Maju Management Consultancy — offering expert guidance on 100% foreign ownership, flexible office locations, government contract access, visa eligibility, and full profit repatriation.

100% Foreign Ownership

Thanks to Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020, foreign investors can now enjoy 100% ownership of mainland companies in most sectors. This removes the earlier requirement of a UAE national sponsor and offers full operational and financial control to international entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Dubai.

Unrestricted Business Location

Unlike free zones which limit you to specific areas, a Dubai mainland license allows you to establish your business anywhere across the emirate — from Downtown and Business Bay to Sheikh Zayed Road and beyond. This enhances brand visibility and customer access.

Local & International Trade Freedom

Mainland companies can conduct business directly with clients across all Emirates and export globally without approvals or barriers. If your plan is to start a business in Dubai with regional or international expansion in mind, mainland registration gives you full freedom to scale.

Access to Government Contracts

Free zone businesses are not eligible to bid for federal or municipal projects. With a mainland company in Dubai, you gain the ability to work with government agencies and tap into multi-million-dirham infrastructure, IT, or logistics contracts.

Visa Eligibility and Sponsorship

Your Dubai trade license issued under mainland jurisdiction allows you to sponsor employees, partners, dependents, and support staff. Visa quotas grow in proportion to your physical office size, offering scalability for long-term growth.

Full Repatriation of Profits

Dubai mainland businesses can remit 100% of profits and capital back to their home country without any restrictions. This makes the Dubai business license highly attractive to global investors looking for secure, compliant cross-border operations.

Demerits of Dubai Mainland Company Setup

Every business structure has its trade-offs. While a Dubai mainland company setup offers significant advantages, it also comes with a few considerations that investors should be aware of

Higher Initial Cost

Starting a business in Dubai mainland typically involves higher upfront costs compared to free zones. This includes government fees, Dubai trade license charges, visa quotas, and mandatory office rentals. However, the long-term flexibility and access to wider markets often justify this investment.

Regulatory Complexity

Some business activities may require approvals from external regulatory bodies or ministries — especially in sectors like education, healthcare, or engineering. MajuBiz ensures your Dubai business license application meets all compliance criteria to avoid delays.

Mandatory Office Lease

To register a mainland company, you must lease a physical office and register the space under Ejari. This is a legal requirement tied to both your commercial license and visa eligibility. While this adds to setup cost, it also builds credibility and supports long-term scalability.

Documents Required

When applying for a Dubai Mainland company registration, you’ll need to prepare key documents. Common requirements include:

Passport copies

Valid passport copies of all shareholders and managers.

Visa/Entry Stamp

UAE entry stamp or resident visa pages for any founders already in the country.

Trade Name Reservation Certificate

Proof of your reserved company name, issued by DET/DED after approval.

Initial Approval Certificate

A preliminary approval from DET (formerly DED) or other authorities permitting your chosen activities.

Tenancy Contract and Ejari

A UAE office lease contract and Ejari registration certificate as proof of physical address.

Business Plan (if applicable)

Some applications require a business plan outlining objectives, market analysis, and financials (especially for certain licenses or investor visas). Each application may vary slightly by activity and legal form, so ensure you verify specific DET requirements. The above list covers the core documents for a typical mainland license application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about setting up a business in Dubai Mainland. From costs and ownership regulations to the registration process, Maju Management Consultancy is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

What is the cost of Dubai Mainland company formation?

The average cost ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 35,000, depending on license type, visa quota, and office space.

Can foreigners fully own a Mainland company?

Yes. Following Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020, most business activities on the mainland now permit 100% foreign ownership. Only select strategic sectors may still require a UAE national partner or service agent.

How long does it take to register a Dubai Mainland company?

The full process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the business activity. Steps include name reservation, MOA signing, obtaining approvals, and final license issuance. Some stages can be completed online within minutes, while others may require additional time.

Do I need a local sponsor or agent?

In most cases, no sponsor is required. However, certain regulated industries (e.g., media, insurance, or utilities) may still require a UAE national service agent or shareholder. It's important to confirm your business activity category before proceeding.

What types of businesses can operate under a Mainland license?

Mainland licenses cover a broad range of sectors including commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism activities. Dubai permits over 3,000 approved business activities, from tech consultancies and trading companies to manufacturing units and travel agencies.

How Maju Management Consultancy Can Help

At Maju Management Consultancy, we provide end-to-end support for setting up your Dubai Mainland business:

• Guidance on the right legal structure and business activity
• Preparation and submission of all required documentation
• Coordination with DET and relevant authorities
• Assistance in securing and registering your Ejari-compliant office lease
• Local service agent support (if applicable)
• Visa processing for employees and family members
• Assistance with corporate bank account setup

With our experienced team by your side, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork and regulatory processes.
Contact us today to start your Dubai Mainland company setup with confidence and clarity.

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Partner with Maju Management Consultancy today to embark on your business journey in Dubai Mainland with confidence and expert guidance.