UAE Mainland specifically refers to the area under the jurisdiction of the Department of Economic Development (DED) in each emirate, outside of Free Zones and Offshore jurisdictions. In short, businesses registered here can operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally, without the geographical restrictions that apply to Free Zone entities.
When you set up a business in the Mainland, you register it with the DED of the specific Emirate, for example, the Dubai DED if you're establishing your company in Dubai. for example, the Dubai Mainland business setup if you're establishing your company in Dubai, or explore Sharjah Mainland business setup if you prefer the capital’s neighboring emirate.
- Mainland Business Setup in UAE: These businesses can trade and provide services across the UAE without restriction. You’re allowed to open offices, retail outlets, or branches anywhere in the Emirates, offering maximum market access and scalability.
- Free Zone Business Setup: These operate primarily within their designated Free Zone or focus on international markets. To sell directly in the local UAE market, Free Zone companies must go through a local distributor or obtain additional licenses.
Key Advantage: Mainland companies enjoy unrestricted trade across the UAE and can also engage in international business, giving them a broader commercial reach compared to Free Zone entities.