Start your Mainland
Company in Dubai.

A Dubai Mainland license, issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allows entrepreneurs to operate freely across the UAE and in international markets. It offers the flexibility to expand your business activities without geographic limitations, making it ideal for long-term growth and diversification.
Get your Dubai Mainland license from the DED and enjoy the freedom to run your business anywhere in the UAE—and beyond. It’s the perfect way to grow without limits.

Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License

Unrestricted Business Activities

A Dubai Mainland license grants businesses the freedom to operate anywhere in the UAE, including Free Zones and international markets. With no geographic restrictions, it’s the ideal choice for companies seeking to maximize their market reach, grow across the Emirates, and expand globally.

Boosted Business Credibility

Setting up your business on the Dubai mainland enhances visibility and strengthens your reputation. It offers the flexibility to establish offices in strategic, high-traffic locations across the city—boosting your brand’s credibility, accessibility, and customer trust.

Access to Government Contracts

Mainland companies are eligible to bid for government contracts and projects, unlocking access to high-value, high-impact opportunities. This advantage positions your business to work directly with government entities and contribute to major national initiatives.

Seamless Capital and Profit Repatriation

Mainland companies enjoy full freedom of currency repatriation, allowing you to transfer profits and capital to your home country or any international destination without restrictions. This ensures greater financial flexibility and ease of global operations.

Unlimited Visa Allocation

A Dubai Mainland license offers greater flexibility in obtaining employee visas, with no rigid limitations on the number of visas you can apply for. This makes it easier to scale your workforce in line with your business growth and operational needs.

Tax Advantages

Mainland companies enjoy tax benefits comparable to those offered in free zones, including corporate tax exemptions under certain conditions. Additionally, there is no minimum capital requirement for business setup, making it a cost-effective and accessible option for entrepreneurs and growing enterprises.

Explore Monthly
Payment Plans
with Selected Banks

Convert your transactions into easy, affordable monthly installments with our trusted banking partners. Simply spend a minimum of AED 1,000 using your credit card from any participating bank and enjoy the convenience of repaying over 12 months in manageable installments.

Insights & Resources

Stay updated with the latest market trends and business insights

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The first Business Success Index highlights key factors for thriving in Saudi Arabia, including innovation, strong leadership, and market adaptability. It emphasizes government support, digital transformation, and skilled talent as crucial for growth, offering valuable insights for businesses aiming to succeed in the Kingdom’s dynamic economic landscape.

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Reports

February 24, 2025

First Business Success Index Reveals Factors for Thriving in Saudi Arabia

The updated 2025 report draws on 1,200+ international companies to introduce the first Saudi Success Index, identifying localization, compliance, and market integration as top success drivers, while urgency to enter increased by 33% YoY. .

Read More

Business Activities Under Dubai Mainland License

Dubai is considered to be one of the most sought-after business destinations across the world. The ease of setting up a business that comes with
numerous lucrative benefits is the primary reason for the continuous influx of investors and entrepreneurs in the UAE.

With diverse options of activities to choose from, XMART Biz will help you choose the best-suited type of activities for your company.

Industrial License

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Commercial License

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Professional License

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Tourism License

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Business Structures Under Dubai Mainland License

What are you looking for?

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai is a lucrative investment option for investors and business establishments. Mainland companies are business entities that are allowed to function and operate within the boundaries of Emirati jurisdiction that come under commercialized geographical regions.

Freezone licenses are permits granted to a geographical region or jurisdiction that is allowed to conduct a predefined trading activity or set of activities in the UAE. The licenses issued offer favorable conditions for businesses, for example, 100% foreign ownership, and streamlined bureaucratic procedures.

An offshore license gives authorizations to businesses that conduct operations outside of their location of registration. Businesses may be allowed to legally operate while following the regulations of the jurisdiction they are conducting their business activities.

Steps in Setting Up Your Business Under a Dubai Mainland License

Choose Your Business Activity and Structure

The first and most important thing to do before setting up a company in Dubai is to choose the right category and nature where your business activity falls. You can choose from over 1,500 business activities in the UAE. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) is the Governing body that regulates all the legal activities of businesses in Dubai.

Register Your Company’s Name with DED

Choose a unique name for your company. Ensure that the chosen name does not match any other companies in Dubai. Once you have selected a name and received approval, register it with the DED. Typically, the registration process takes around three days.

Apply for Mainland Trade License

After registering your company name, it’s now time to apply for your mainland trade license. There are a few commercial activities that are not permissible according to the DED law. DED is the accountable body to decide, regulate, classify, permit, and license all economic activities. Several documents are required as part of a trade license application. Creative Zone can assist you with this.

Get an Office Space or Coworking Space

In the UAE, office spaces are usually owned by third parties. The packages and inclusions can be customised depending on your needs. It is essential to note that the tenancy agreement, Real Estate Regulation Authority (RERA) documents, and EJARI need to be submitted, following with the initial approval that is granted by the DED. An office space is often not mandatory and Creative Zone provides options of coworking spaces which is much more cost-effective.

Prepare the Necessary Documents Like Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Article of Association (AoA)

The Memorandum of Association (MoA) is one of the most important documents in setting up a company in Dubai. This document states the information on share of limitations and liberty every partner has within the company. This document should be drafted carefully. The legal experts from Creative Zone can help you in preparing this document.

Pay Fees and Collect the License

After completing documentation and approvals, pay fees and collect your business license, marking official recognition and allowing legal operation in Dubai mainland.

Open Your Business Bank Account

After obtaining the trade license, the next step is to open a corporate bank account. Modern digital banking has streamlined this process, often taking only a few days. Our team of banking experts will assist you throughout the process.

Why XMART Biz?

13 years in Business
within the UAE

Assisted over 75,000
entrepreneurs set up companies
in the region

Have a global presence with
offices in UAE, Saudi Arabia,
and Qatar

75% businesses renew their
trade licenses with us

100% customer
satisfaction rate

4.9 stars in Google
ratings

500+ employees to assist you
throughout your business
journey

22 different languages
spoken by our employees

100% transparency in all
transactions

50+ awards won over
the years

Creates a community for start-ups
to network, exchange
knowledge, and increase
business

Provides an ecosystem of
support services for
businesses

Meet Our Specialists

David Johnson

Business Development Manager

Peter James

Senior Business Setup Advisor

Nick Bravo

Business Setup Advisor

Meet Our Specialists

David Johnson

Business Development Manager

Peter James

Senior Business Setup Advisor

David Johnson

Business Setup Advisor

Here's what our valuable clients say

Richard Eliab Designation

Fantastic set of crew to handhold the first few steps you take to start the business in the region Folles ke Shereen, Mehreen and Abeera have an amazing way to display their professionalism to get things done. Thanks team for the quick turn around and deliverables. You will always be our extended team as we grow in the region.

Maher Designation

XMART Biz provided us with assistance from A to Z. They were always available to answer our questions and cater to our needs, including last minute arrangements. I think that their services are affordable and you get more than what you paid for.

Rodrigo Olaechea Designation

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing exceptional service from Gazala and Mehreen, and I am compelled to share my positive feedback. From start to finish, their professionalism, attentiveness, and dedication exceeded my expectations, making my interaction with their service truly memorable.

Rohin Thampi Designation

We signed up with XMART Biz to set our operations in Dubai based on a recommendation. And we're glad we made that decision. Working with Commitbiz has been smooth and they are very responsive to any requests we make.

Dubai Mainland

Start your Mainland
Company in Dubai

A Mainland license in Dubai enables entrepreneurs to operate both within the UAE and internationally. Issued by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED), this license offers the flexibility and freedom to expand your business activities.
This license offers unmatched flexibility to expand business activities across local and international markets, without the limitations often found in other jurisdictions.

Legal Services in UAE

Trusted Business Legal
Consultancy

At XMART Biz Consultancy, we believe that every successful business rests on a strong legal foundation. Our legal services in the UAE are designed to help entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies navigate complex regulations, protect their interests, and stay fully compliant with UAE laws.

Whether you’re setting up a new company, drafting contracts, or resolving disputes, our legal experts are by your side—ensuring your business operates smoothly and securely.

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Professional License

Company Setup just in AED 10,405*

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Commercial License

Company Setup just in AED 14,905*

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Industrial License

Company Setup just in AED 25,000*

\ Why Choose Us\

Setting Up Your Dubai Mainland Business License

\ Advantages \

Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License

Unrestricted Business Activities

A Dubai Mainland license enables businesses to operate UAE-wide and internationally, offering unmatched flexibility for market expansion and growth.

Boosted Business Credibility

Establishing your business on Dubai mainland increases visibility and credibility, offering flexible office locations in prime, high-traffic areas.

Access to Government Contracts

Mainland companies can bid on government projects, unlocking lucrative opportunities to work with government entities on impactful initiatives.

Seamless Capital and Profit Repatriation

Mainland companies have complete freedom to repatriate profits and capital internationally, providing financial flexibility and supporting global business operations.

Unlimited Visa Allocation

A Dubai Mainland license offers flexible visa quotas, enabling businesses to easily expand their workforce as operational needs grow.

Tax Advantages

Mainland companies enjoy tax exemptions and no minimum capital requirements, making setup cost-effective and accessible for entrepreneurs and businesses.
\ Effortless Beginnings, Infinite Possibilities \

Top Mainland Locations in Dubai

\ Pick Your Business Idea \

How to Start a Mainland Company

Think About Future Plans

Experts guide you to choose activities, jurisdiction, and cost-effective solutions.

Trade Name Registration

Choose a business name—we’ll check availability, register, and comply.

Secure Your Office

Choose office location—our experts help secure your ideal workspace.

Finalize Company Structure

Choose the best company structure with expert feasibility and due diligence.

Get Licensed & Approved

We manage approvals, paperwork, translations, and licensing for mainland businesses.

Labor Law Compliance

We handle visa processing, documentation, verification, and government filings smoothly.

\ Dubai mainland company\

Are you ready to launch your Dubai mainland company?

Ready to set up your Mainland Company in Dubai? Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way, making the process seamless and efficient. Launch your business confidently in Dubai’s dynamic market. From choosing the right business activities to obtaining approvals and securing your workspace, we offer expert guidance to ensure your company’s successful start.

FAQs: Dubai Mainland

Costs vary based on business activity, company structure, office requirements, and government fees. Typical expenses include licensing, registration, visas, and rent. Consulting a business setup expert ensures an accurate and tailored cost estimate.
Selecting the right company setup depends on your business goals, activities, and target markets:
  • Dubai Mainland: Ideal for businesses wanting to operate across the UAE, access local markets, and engage in a wide range of activities. May require a local partner for certain sectors.
  • Free Zone: Best for companies seeking 100% foreign ownership, tax incentives, and simplified setup within specific zones. Limited direct trade with the UAE market.
  • Offshore: Suitable for international businesses focused on tax efficiency and asset protection. Offshore companies cannot conduct business within the UAE.
Evaluate your operational needs and legal requirements to decide which setup aligns best with your objectives.
Although the UAE does not impose income tax on individuals, Dubai Mainland businesses are subject to corporate taxes. However, these rates are typically low compared to other countries, with various exemptions and incentives available depending on the business activity and structure.
Yes, foreign nationals can open a business in Dubai Mainland. Thanks to recent reforms, many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership without needing a local partner. However, some sectors may still require a local sponsor or service agent. It’s important to check the specific regulations related to your business activity.
\ XMART Biz Consultancy \

Protect Your Business with XMART Biz Consultancy

In the UAE’s competitive business landscape, the right legal partner makes all the difference. At XMART Biz Consultancy, our legal team ensures your company is compliant, protected, and positioned for long-term success.
\ XMART Biz Consultancy \

Protect Your Business with XMART Biz Consultancy

In the UAE’s competitive business landscape, the right legal partner makes all the difference. At XMART Biz Consultancy, our legal team ensures your company is compliant, protected, and positioned for long-term success.

Here's what our valuable clients say

Richard Eliab Designation

Fantastic set of crew to handhold the first few steps you take to start the business in the region Folles ke Shereen, Mehreen and Abeera have an amazing way to display their professionalism to get things done. Thanks team for the quick turn around and deliverables. You will always be our extended team as we grow in the region.

Maher Designation

XMART Biz provided us with assistance from A to Z. They were always available to answer our questions and cater to our needs, including last minute arrangements. I think that their services are affordable and you get more than what you paid for.

Rodrigo Olaechea Designation

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing exceptional service from Gazala and Mehreen, and I am compelled to share my positive feedback. From start to finish, their professionalism, attentiveness, and dedication exceeded my expectations, making my interaction with their service truly memorable.

Rohin Thampi Designation

We signed up with XMART Biz to set our operations in Dubai based on a recommendation. And we're glad we made that decision. Working with Commitbiz has been smooth and they are very responsive to any requests we make.

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