Mainland License in UAE

Obtaining a Mainland License in Dubai is essential for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the UAE and operate without geographical restrictions. Companies with a mainland license can conduct business anywhere across Dubai and the UAE. It offers significant flexibility and growth opportunities.   This step-by-step guide walks you through the key processes, from choosing the proper business structure to registering your company with the Department of Economic Development (DED). It ensures you’re fully prepared to start your business in one of the world’s most fast-growing markets.   Benefits of Mainland License in Dubai  A Mainland License in Dubai offers several key benefits for businesses looking to establish themselves in the UAE. Here are the main advantages:  1. Wider Market Access  Unlike free zones, businesses with a Mainland License can operate freely within Dubai and the UAE. Companies can engage directly with the local market and secure government contracts.  2. No Limitations on Office Locations  Companies can establish offices anywhere in Dubai with a Mainland License. It provides more flexibility regarding physical presence and access to prime locations in the city.  3. No Currency Restrictions  There are no currency exchange limitations. It makes it easier to conduct international transactions and repatriate profits.  4. 100% Foreign Ownership  Recent changes allow foreign entrepreneurs to own 100% of their business in most sectors without needing a local Emirati sponsor. It makes Mainland Dubai an attractive option for foreign investors.  5. Ease of Business Expansion  Mainland License holders can quickly expand their business across the UAE and beyond, taking advantage of Dubai’s strategic position as a global business hub.  These benefits make a Mainland License an ideal choice for businesses seeking full market access, ownership control, and growth potential in the UAE.  Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai  In Dubai, Mainland companies can operate under various types of licenses depending on the nature of their business activities. Here are the main types of Mainland licenses:  Industrial License  Purpose: For manufacturing, production, or industrial businesses.  Examples: Factories, food processing units, and other production-related businesses.  Trading License (Commercial License)  Purpose: For companies engaged in trading goods or commodities.  Examples: Import/export businesses, retail shops, and general trading companies.  Professional License  Purpose: For individuals or companies offering professional services.  Examples: Consultants, IT service providers, marketing agencies, and other service-based businesses.  Tourism License  Purpose: Specifically for businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector.  Examples: Travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality management firms.  Each license type requires specific approvals and regulations depending on the business activity. Apart from the licenses mentioned above, there are other licenses on the mainland.   Steps to get a Mainland license in Dubai  Obtaining a mainland license in UAE is essential for businesses operating freely within the UAE and offering unrestricted trade access across the Emirates. Below are the steps which will help you to get a mainland license:  Step 1:  Choose Your Business Activity  The first step is to choose a business activity for your business. It’s essential to check if the activity works by ensuring it follows local rules and runs smoothly in the selected area.  Step 2: Choose the Right Legal Structure  The second step is to choose the proper legal structure for your business. You can choose from:  Limited Liability Company (LLC)  Sole Establishment  Or Branch Company  Each structure comes with its own set of ownership and liability rules. All businesses in Dubai and the UAE must adhere to the legal frameworks set by the Dubai Economic Department (DED).  Step 3: Select Your Trade Name  The third important step is to select a company name with DED guidelines. Submit your trade name reservation request through the DED website or a service centre.   You can also check the naming guidelines of DED, which will make it easy for you to select a business name. If you need clarification in choosing a name for your business, you can contact our Shuraa business experts.   Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval  Gather all the necessary documentation to apply for Initial Approval from the Dubai Economic Department. This step allows you to proceed with your business setup while applying for any additional permits required by the DED.  Step 5: Obtain External Approvals   Certain businesses need extra approvals from entities such as the Dubai Municipality or relevant ministries. Securing these external approvals is vital for moving forward and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.  Step 6: Rent Office Space   Renting an office is often mandatory to start a business in Dubai. A Flexi Desk is available for smaller operations, offering flexibility and lower costs.   However, depending on your business type, you may need to secure a more substantial office space to meet specific requirements.  Step 7: Register Your Lease with Ejari  Ejari, which means “My Rent” in Arabic, is a system created by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) to regulate rental agreements in Dubai. It ensures all tenancy contracts are registered and transparent.  If you are setting up a business in Dubai, you need an Ejari certificate as part of the business licensing process with the Department of Economic Development (DED).  Step 8: Pay the License Fees  After your application is approved, you need to finalise the process by paying the required license fees and any other additional charges. Once these payments are made, you will receive your official business license, allowing you to operate legally in Dubai.  Step 9: Open a corporate bank account  Choose a bank that meets your business needs to open a corporate bank account in Dubai. Gather the necessary documents, such as:  Your business license  Passport copies of the owners.   Finally, submit your application and make any required initial deposit to activate your account.  Step 10: Receive Your Business License  With Shuraa Business Setup, you can obtain your Dubai Mainland license in under an hour, making the process fast and straightforward.   Their expert team streamlines the necessary paperwork and procedures. It ensures a hassle-free experience. This efficiency allows you to focus on starting your business without unnecessary delays.  Documents Required for Mainland License