Mainland companies are onshore business entities whose activities are not geographically limited. They provide a broad range of access and business features to their investors, making them a lucrative option. Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally. They can conduct a broader range of business activities and can easily expand and diversify their operations, due to fewer restrictions in the license. The flexibility to adapt and grow a business is one of the significant reasons why investors are attracted towards mainland company formation in Dubai.
- Access - Mainland company set up gives you the freedom to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally.
- Opportunity to expand - Setting up a mainland company allows investors to grow their business in the future.
Mainland companies can apply for unlimited visas and open new office locations. - Type of business activities - Mainland companies can conduct business throughout the UAE on a range of business licenses.
- Type of business activities - Mainland companies can conduct business throughout the UAE on a range of business licenses.
- Tax exemption - Mainland companies are exempt from corporate and income tax.
- Can take up lucrative government contracts and bid on government projects.
- Commercial licenses - Covers all trading and market activities. Businesses involved in real estate, construction, retail, and transport require this type of license.
- Industrial licenses - Required for conducting production and manufacturing activity.
- Professional licenses - Required by businesses that provide a professional skills-based service.
There are various steps involved in mainland company formation in Dubai such as navigating through government approvals, registration, and licensing requirements. LegalWorks can assist in each step to make the process easy and straightforward for business owners.
1. Choose a business activity.
This is an important first decision and determines the type of license needed by the company. Our team of experts will take you through the licenses available and help you choose the one best suited to your needs.
2. Choose your company structure
There are many legal structures a Mainland company set up in Dubai can take, such as LLC, sole proprietorship, and civil company. We will assist you in choosing the company structure that is in line with your business activity
3. Choosing a tradename
UAE has certain rules and restrictions regarding the trade name of a company. It is essential to check with the Department of Economic Development regarding the permitted trade names to prevent any unforeseen setbacks. A general list of rules regarding trade name are
- The name must not violate the public morals or the public order of the country
- The name must be followed by the legal form of the company, for example (LLC)
- The name should not have been previously registered
- The name should be compatible with the type of activity and legal status
- Trade name should not contain names with religious significance, or governing authority, or logos of any external bodies.
4. Obtain Initial Approval
Companies must obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). This conveys that the UAE government has no objection in allowing the business to be established. Foreign investors also need the approval of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs before they can get the initial approval.
Our team will assist you in the collection of the required documents for approval which include passport copy, No Objection Letter from your sponsor and a business plan. We will also take you through the payment process of registration fees of AED 120.
5. Get external approvals
Many government institutions work in tandem with the Department of Economic Development to issue a business license. These include the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Economy and Local health departments. Depending on the nature of the business activity approval from these institutions is also required.
6. Get your license
This is the final step in the incorporation process. Obtaining a license requires the submission of the license application documents and legal documents. These include:
- Initial approval receipt and all the previously submitted documents
- Duly attested memorandum of association
- Approvals from other government entities concerned
- Shareholder details and passport copies
At LegalWorks, our experts will assist you in every stage of the business set-up process. This includes determining the type of license and business structure, regulations compliance, selection of the right Mainland company set up plan, acquiring your visas and leasing your office space. We will guide you from start to end in the incorporation process.
