Mainland Business Setup in UAE
Looking for the top mainland business setup company in UAE?
Probiz Corporate is here to provide professional mainland business setup services to fulfill the accounting needs of your business.
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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman & Across the UAE
Mainland Business Setup in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman & Across the UAE
Launch Your Business with Confidence — Expertly Guided by Probiz Corporate Consultant
If you’re looking to tap into the vibrant UAE economy and serve a growing local market, setting up a mainland company is your best route. Unlike Free Zones, which are geographically limited, a mainland license gives you the freedom to operate across the UAE and internationally, making it the preferred choice for entrepreneurs, SMEs, and global investors who want unrestricted access to the market.
What is Mainland Company Formation in the UAE?
A mainland company refers to a business that is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a particular Emirate. With this license, you can:
Unlike Free Zone companies, which are confined to specific jurisdictions, mainland businesses have no geographic restrictions. That means more flexibility, better scalability, and broader opportunities.
Why Choose Abu Dhabi for Mainland Business Setup?
As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi combines economic stability with visionary leadership, offering a fertile ground for long-term business growth. It’s particularly attractive for:
Here’s Why Abu Dhabi Stands Out
DED Abu Dhabi Licensing
Full Foreign Ownership
Cost-Effective Setup
Strategic Location
Investor-Friendly Policies
Mainland Business Setup in Other Emirates
While Abu Dhabi is an excellent base, other Emirates also offer compelling mainland options:
Dubai Mainland
Ideal for high-visibility businesses, luxury brands, and tourism-related ventures. Licensed through DED Dubai.
Sharjah Mainland
Cost-effective, with strong industrial and educational sectors.a
Ajman Mainland
Affordable entry point for SMEs and service-based businesses.
Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain
Lower setup costs, ideal for niche sectors and industrial ventures.
Each Emirate offers unique advantages depending on your business type, target market, and budget.
Key Benefits of Mainland Business Setup in UAE
These benefits make mainland setup an excellent choice for businesses planning long-term operations in the UAE.
Types of Business Activities Allowed
Mainland licenses accommodate a wide range of commercial and professional activities:
Our team will help you match the right license category with your exact business model.
How to Start a Mainland Company in the UAE
At Probiz Corporate Consultant, we simplify the process for you. Here’s how it works:
Business Activity Selection
Trade Name Reservation
Initial Approval
Office Space / Ejari Contract
Document Submission
Trade License Issuance
Timeframe? 3–7 business days for most cases, depending on your business activity and document readiness.
Cost of Mainland Business Setup in UAE
The total cost depends on:
The Emirate You Choose
The business activity
Number of Shareholders
Visa Quotas
Office Rental Space
On average, expect starting costs to range from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000, exclusive of visa or office rent. Abu Dhabi offers competitive pricing and excellent value for money.
FAQs – What Entrepreneurs Want to Know
Mainland allows you to operate across UAE and bid for government projects. Free Zones restrict you to their zone and international trade unless additional arrangements are made.
Yes. As of recent laws, most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership without the need for an Emirati partner.
With proper documentation, a mainland trade license can be obtained within 3 to 7 working days.
Not for most business activities. However, for certain strategic sectors, a UAE national may be required.
Yes. Physical office space or a flexi-desk lease (Ejari) is mandatory for mainland businesses.
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Let our experts help you choose the best Emirate, business activity, and licensing option to match your goals.