Maintain corporate governance, statutory records, and regulatory filings with a structured and consistent approach.
We support international businesses operating in India, UAE, and key global markets with structured, end-to-end entity management.
Corporate Secretarial & Governance Services
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Why Choose Mainland Company Formation?
A mainland company—also known as an onshore company—is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the respective emirate. This is the most versatile business structure in the UAE, offering full market access without the geographical or operational restrictions that apply to free zone entities.
Following the UAE's landmark amendment to the Commercial Companies Law in 2020, foreign investors can now hold 100% ownership of mainland companies in most business activities, eliminating the previous requirement for a 51% UAE national partner. This reform has made mainland company formation significantly more attractive for international entrepreneurs and corporations.
Core Advantages of Mainland Setup
Unrestricted Market Access: Trade anywhere in the UAE—locally, nationally, and internationally—without limitations. Mainland companies can bid on government contracts and serve the local market directly.
100% Foreign Ownership: Full ownership is now available for most commercial, professional, and industrial activities without the need for a UAE national sponsor.
No Restrictions on Office Location: Choose any commercially zoned location in the emirate. You are not limited to a specific zone or business park.
Unlimited Visa Allocation: The number of employee visas is determined by your office space rather than a fixed cap, allowing you to scale your workforce as needed.
Government & Public Sector Contracts: Mainland companies are eligible to participate in government tenders—a significant revenue channel that free zone companies cannot access directly.
Broader Activity Scope: Mainland licenses cover a wider range of business activities, including regulated sectors such as construction, real estate brokerage, and food services that may not be available in free zones.
Mainland Legal Structures
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Sole Establishment
Civil Company
Branch of a Foreign Company
Mainland Company Setup Process
Our team manages every step of the incorporation process, ensuring a smooth and compliant experience.
1. Business Activity & Structure Selection
We help you define your business activities, select the appropriate legal form, and advise on ownership structure based on the latest DED regulations and your commercial objectives.
2. Trade Name Reservation
We reserve your trade name with the DED, ensuring it meets naming conventions and is not already registered. We handle any objections or modifications required.
3. Initial Approval & Documentation
We obtain initial approval from the DED and prepare all required documents—Memorandum of Association, tenancy contract (Ejari), shareholder documents, and any sector-specific approvals from external authorities.
4. External Approvals (If Required)
Certain business activities require additional approvals from government bodies such as the Ministry of Economy, Dubai Municipality, RTA, or DHA. We coordinate all external approvals on your behalf.
Documents Required for Mainland Company Formation
Passport copies of all shareholders and managers (with valid entry stamp or visa page)
Emirates ID copies (for UAE residents)
Proof of residential address
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if applicable)
Tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered office address
Memorandum of Association (MOA) — prepared and notarised
Board resolution from the parent company (for branch offices)
Mainland Company Costs
The cost of setting up a mainland company varies depending on the emirate, business activity, number of visa allocations, and office space requirements. Key cost components include the DED trade license fee, Memorandum of Association notarisation, office lease, establishment card, visa processing, and any external approval fees.
AB Nexis provides transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden charges. We offer customised packages that bundle licensing, visa, and compliance services to deliver the best value for your investment.
Mainland Setup Across the Emirates
While Dubai is the most popular emirate for mainland company formation, businesses can also incorporate in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. Each emirate has its own DED with slightly different fee structures and processing timelines. Our team operates across all seven emirates and can advise you on the most cost-effective and operationally suitable location for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about mainland company formation in the UAE.
Yes. Following the 2020 amendment to the Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can own 100% of mainland companies in most business activities. Certain strategic sectors may still require a UAE national partner—our team will advise you based on your specific activity.
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Start Your Mainland Company Today
Our team has set up thousands of mainland companies across all seven emirates. Contact us for a tailored proposal and transparent pricing.
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