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Dubai Mainland

An onshore company licensed by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism, able to trade directly anywhere in the UAE.

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Overview

A mainland company is licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). It can sell directly to customers anywhere in the UAE, as well as internationally, and can bid for government contracts. Since 2021, foreign investors can own 100% of a mainland company in most commercial and industrial activities, so you usually do not need a local partner.

The trade-off is more admin. You generally need a physical office with a tenancy contract registered with Ejari (Dubai's tenancy registration system), and some activities need approval from another government body. Work permits and labour contracts go through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

Good for

  • Selling directly to UAE customers, shops and consumers
  • Retail, restaurants and other customer-facing businesses
  • Bidding for government contracts
  • Businesses planning a larger local team

Things to consider

  • A physical office with a registered tenancy contract is generally required
  • Your visa quota is usually linked to the size of your office
  • Some activities need approval from another government authority, which adds time
  • Setup usually takes longer than in a free zone

Fees, packages and visa quotas change often; we confirm current figures in your consultation.

Common questions

Do I need a local partner for a mainland company?

In most cases, no. Since 2021, UAE law allows 100% foreign ownership for most mainland activities. A small number of activities still have specific ownership conditions, and we check this for your activity before you apply.

Do I need a physical office?

Generally, yes. A mainland licence needs a registered address, usually an office with a tenancy contract registered with Ejari. The size of the office can also affect how many visas you can apply for. Serviced business centres can be an option for smaller teams.

Who handles staff visas and labour contracts?

Work permits and labour contracts for mainland companies go through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Residence visas are issued through the immigration authorities (GDRFA in Dubai). Each visa holder needs a medical fitness test and an Emirates ID.

Where do I apply for a Dubai mainland licence?

Usually online, through Invest in Dubai, the Government of Dubai's business setup platform, where you book a trade name and apply to DET for a trade licence. Service centres are also available. Some activities also need approval from another authority before the licence is issued, and you will need suitable premises with an Ejari-registered lease. We can prepare and submit the application for you.

Can a free zone company work on the Dubai mainland without a mainland company?

In some cases. Under Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, a free zone company can apply to DET, with a no-objection from its free zone authority, to carry out approved activities on the mainland. DET sets the eligible activities and conditions, and income from mainland customers usually does not qualify for the 0% free zone corporate tax rate, so check both first.

How long does a mainland setup take?

It depends on your activity, whether another authority must approve it, and how quickly you secure an office. Mainland setups usually take longer than free zone setups. We give you a realistic timeline once we know your plans.

Guides for choosing and running your company

Sources

Is Dubai Mainland right for you?

Tell us what you sell, who to and how many people you plan to hire. We compare options and confirm current fees and visa quotas.

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Or call +971 52 210 4014 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM)