Dubai has emerged as one of the most attractive business destinations in the world, offering investors a stable economy, strategic location, and unmatched opportunities across diverse industries. For entrepreneurs who want to trade freely across the UAE and internationally, a business setup in Dubai mainland is the ideal choice.
However, before you get started, it is important to understand the licensing requirements and compliance obligations involved in establishing a mainland company. This guide will walk you through the essentials — and how Evergreen Businessmen Services can simplify the process for you.
Types of Licenses for Mainland Business Setup
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai issues mainland licenses depending on the nature of business activity. The three main categories are:
1. Commercial License
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For trading, import, and export businesses.
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Ideal for companies involved in retail, wholesale, logistics, or general trading.
2. Professional License
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For service-oriented businesses, such as consultancies, IT services, healthcare, or marketing firms.
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Allows 100% foreign ownership in many cases.
3. Industrial License
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For companies involved in manufacturing, production, and industrial operations.
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Requires approvals from additional authorities, depending on the industry.
Key Steps in Mainland Business Licensing
Setting up a mainland company involves a series of legal procedures:
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Choose Your Business Activity
Select the activity that aligns with your business goals. Evergreen helps ensure the right license type is chosen. -
Select a Legal Structure
Options include a Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole establishment, or branch of a foreign company. -
Reserve a Trade Name
Your business name must comply with UAE naming guidelines and be approved by DET. -
Obtain Initial Approval
DET issues initial approval to confirm that you can proceed with the setup process. -
Prepare and Notarize Documents
Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and other legal documents. Evergreen ensures everything is prepared correctly. -
Lease Office Space
A mainland company must have a physical office address. The tenancy contract (Ejari) must be submitted for approval. -
Secure Final License
Once all requirements are completed, DET issues the final business license, allowing you to operate legally.
Compliance Requirements for Mainland Companies
After obtaining a license, mainland businesses must stay compliant with ongoing regulations, such as:
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Trade License Renewal – Must be renewed annually.
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Visa and Immigration Compliance – Investor, employee, and dependent visas must adhere to UAE labor laws.
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Tax Registration – Depending on revenue, companies may need to register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority.
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Corporate Bank Account – Offshore and onshore accounts require strict compliance with KYC and AML regulations.
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Labor and Employment Laws – Contracts, wages, and employee rights must meet Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) standards.
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Annual Audits – Certain businesses must maintain proper accounting records and submit annual audits.
How Evergreen Businessmen Services Simplifies the Process
Setting up and maintaining compliance for a mainland company can be complex without expert assistance. Evergreen Businessmen Services provides:
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Consultation on license selection to match your business activity.
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End-to-end documentation support including MOA, name approvals, and attestation.
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Local sponsorship solutions with transparent agreements.
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Office space assistance tailored to government requirements.
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PRO and visa services to handle government approvals seamlessly.
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Compliance monitoring to ensure timely renewals and adherence to UAE laws.
Final Thoughts
A business setup in Dubai mainland offers incredible opportunities, but success begins with the right licensing and ongoing compliance. From choosing the right license type to ensuring you meet legal obligations year after year, every step matters.
With Evergreen Businessmen Services, you gain a trusted partner who simplifies licensing, eliminates stress, and ensures compliance, allowing you to focus on building your business in Dubai’s dynamic market.
Evergreen Businessmen Services Business Email: [email protected] Phone: 97142943886 Website Url: https://egbms.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evergreenbusinessmenservices/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evergreen-businessmen-services-business-setup-du%20bai/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evergreenbusinessmenservices/