Question 1

Q-1. Do I need approvals from other authorities besides the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Depending on your chosen business activity, you may require external approvals from specific UAE government bodies or regulators.
For example:

Dubai Municipality: For activities involving food, construction, or hygiene.
MOHRE: For labor establishment cards and work permits.
GDRFA: For immigration and visa services.
Ministry of Health, KHDA, or other sector-specific bodies: For regulated sectors like healthcare, education, or financial services.

Why it matters: These approvals must be secured before DET will issue your trade license, and they can affect both cost and timeline.

Question 2

Q-2. What are the main benefits of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Here's what makes it a powerful business move:

100% Foreign Ownership: Available in most sectors.
UAE-Wide Trade: Freedom to do business anywhere in the country.
Diverse Activities: More license categories than Free Zones.
Government Projects: Eligibility for public tenders.
Unlimited Visas: Based on office size.
Flexible Location: Choose office space anywhere in Dubai.

Question 3

Q-3. What is the cost of setting up a Mainland company in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Company Formation costs typically range from AED 15,000 to AED 35,000+. Final pricing depends on business activity, license type (e.g., professional or commercial), office space (Ejari), external approvals, and visa quota. Annual renewal and regulatory fees also apply.

Question 4

Q-4. How long does Company Setup in Dubai Mainland usually take?

Accepted Answer

The Company Formation timeline is usually 2 to 4 weeks, assuming all required documents are in order. This includes steps like:

Name Reservation: Secure a unique trade name for your company.
DET Approval: Get initial approval from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
MOA Drafting: Prepare and notarize the Memorandum of Association.
Lease Registration (Ejari): Rent an office and register the tenancy contract through Ejari.
License Issuance: Submit final documents and receive your trade license.

Question 5

Q-5. Do Mainland companies pay tax in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mainland companies are subject to 9% corporate tax on annual profits exceeding AED 375,000. Additionally, businesses with taxable revenue over AED 375,000 annually must register for 5% VAT. However, no personal income tax applies to business owners or employees.

Question 6

Q-6. Can a Free Zone company operate on the Dubai Mainland?

Accepted Answer

Yes, via a Dual License, certain Free Zone companies can obtain a DET-issued Mainland license to operate directly in the Mainland. This allows trade and services outside the Free Zone while maintaining Free Zone advantages like 100% ownership and simplified customs.

Question 7

Q-7. What documents are required for a Mainland Company Setup in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Essential documents required for Company Formation in the Dubai Mainland :

Passport and visa copies of all shareholders
Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
Trade name reservation certificate
Initial approval from DET
Notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement (if needed)
Ejari-registered tenancy contract

Question 8

Q-8. What are the company types offered in Dubai Mainland?

Accepted Answer

Common legal structures for Mainland Company Setup in Dubai include:

LLC (Limited Liability Company): Most common and allows up to 50 shareholders.
Sole Establishment: Ideal for solo professionals (UAE/GCC nationals).
Civil Company: Suitable for professional services.
Branch Office: Extension of foreign or local parent companies.

Each has different ownership, visa, and liability rules.

Question 9

Q-9. Is it mandatory to have a physical office for a Mainland business in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A physical office space with a valid Ejari lease is mandatory for all Dubai Mainland businesses. Virtual offices are not accepted. The office size determines the number of visa allocations your company can receive, and the lease must match your trade license.

Business Setup in Dubai Mainland

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