A UAE Mainland Company is a business entity that operates within the mainland areas of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It allows companies to do business all across the UAE without specific restrictions on location or industry. To set up a mainland company, you need to have a local UAE national or a UAE company as a sponsor or partner who owns at least 51% of the shares. This type of company offers many business opportunities and allows you to trade locally and internationally. Simply, it's a flexible and unrestricted way to do business in the UAE.
Setting up your business in the UAE Mainland offers various benefits.
By establishing your business in the Mainland, you can operate anywhere within the UAE. This allows you to tap into a larger customer base and explore business opportunities across different emirates.
The Mainland allows for a wide range of business activities across various sectors. Whether you're in trading, services, or manufacturing, you have the flexibility to choose the industry that best suits your business goals.
Mainland companies are often favored for government contracts and projects. Having a presence in the Mainland increases your chances of securing such opportunities.
The Mainland is well-connected, with excellent infrastructure and transportation networks. This makes it convenient for suppliers, customers, and employees to access your business premises.
Being in the Mainland enables you to engage in both local and international trade. You can freely conduct business with other Mainland companies, Free Zones, and even foreign companies without any geographical restrictions.
Setting up a Mainland company requires a local UAE sponsor or partner. This can be beneficial as they bring local knowledge, experience, and connections that can help navigate the business landscape and establish valuable relationships.
The UAE Mainland is a vibrant and rapidly expanding business hub, with a thriving economy. By establishing your business in the Mainland, you can take advantage of the country's economic growth and contribute to its development.
Let’s make a successful start, it’s time to know your business setup checklists.
Thinking of starting a business in the mainland of UAE, determining the business activity is the initial step you should focus on. This will help determine the appropriate legal structure and licensing requirements for your venture.
In mainland UAE, it is not mandatory for foreign investors to partner with a local sponsor, who will hold a 51% share in the company. A trusted local sponsor will add value to your business.
Find suitable office space or premises for your business activities. This should comply with local zoning regulations and meet your operational needs. Leasing or purchasing property in the UAE requires proper documentation and tenancy agreements.
Select a unique trade name for your business and register it with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the relevant emirate. Ensure the name adheres to local naming conventions and is not already in use.
Prepare the necessary legal documents, such as a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA). These documents outline the company's structure, shareholder details, and operational guidelines.
Obtain initial approvals from relevant government authorities, such as the DED, Ministry of Economy, and any specialized industry regulators. These approvals may vary depending on your business activity.
Apply for a commercial license from the DED or other relevant authorities, depending on your business activity. Submit the required documents, pay the necessary fees, and comply with all licensing regulations.
Register your business for taxation with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Understand the applicable tax laws, including Value Added Tax (VAT) requirements, and ensure compliance.
Once your business is established, hire employees and obtain their work visas through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Ensure you adhere to labor laws and regulations governing employment contracts, salaries, and benefits.
Select a reputable bank in the UAE and open a corporate bank account for your business. Provide the necessary documentation, such as company registration certificates and shareholder details.
Enroll your employees with the relevant social security authorities, such as the General Pension and Social Security Authority (GPSSA), and contribute to their social security benefits.
Familiarize yourself with and comply with all regulatory requirements specific to your business activity. This includes obtaining permits, adhering to health and safety regulations, and any other industry-specific rules.
Our services
South Bridge Legal offers comprehensive business consultancy services, ensuring a seamless setup process. Benefit from access to a broader market, diverse business activities, and local and international trade opportunities. Follow our checklist for successful setup, including determining your business activity, securing a local sponsor, and obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses. Let us be your pathway to success in the UAE Mainland. Get started today!
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A local UAE national or a UAE company is required as a sponsor or partner, owning at least 51% of the shares, for a foreign investor to set up a mainland company.
Establishing your business in the Mainland provides access to a broader market, diverse business activities, local and international trade opportunities, easy accessibility, and potential government contracts.
The Mainland permits a wide range of business activities across sectors such as trading, services, manufacturing, and more.
South Bridge Legal offers comprehensive advisory services, assisting with legal documents, licenses, permits, local sponsor selection, business activity determination, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
A local sponsor or partner, owning 51% of shares, supports foreign investors in legal compliance and provides local insights, connections, and assistance in navigating business regulations.
South Bridge Legal assists in determining your business activity, selecting a local sponsor, securing business premises, registering trade names, obtaining necessary approvals and licenses, hiring employees, complying with regulations, and more.