Setting up a mainland company in Dubai involves navigating the legal and regulatory framework established by the DED. Here is a step-by-step guide to forming a mainland company in Dubai.

1. Decide on Your Business Activity:

Firstly, decide on the nature of the business activity for your company. This will largely determine the license type you’ll need to apply for. The DED-approved list of business activities available for mainland companies includes thousands of them under different categories as opposed to free zones, where your choice is usually quite limited by the nature of the particular free zone. If you want to diversify your existing business, you can simply re-register the desired activities with the DED.

2. Choose the Company’s Legal Structure:

There are different legal structure types available for mainland businesses. Common ones include Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, and Public or Private Shareholding Company. Each legal entity is subject to particular regulatory requirements and a set of papers for company registration. An LLC is the most popular legal structure requiring two or more shareholders.

3. Select a Company Name:

Choose a unique and appropriate name for registering your company. Ensure that it complies with the DED’s naming guidelines. There are certain general company naming rules specific to the UAE, so it is advisable to consult with field experts before making a decision. To be on the safe side, prepare several name options in advance.

4. Prepare the Required Documents:

Prepare the necessary documents for company registration. The most common ones are the shareholders’ passport copies, passport-size photos, and entry stamps, but the list may vary depending on the company’s legal structure. It is preferable to seek consultancy and legal advice on this issue in order to avoid potential complications with the authorities.

Legal documents may include the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and/or the Local Service Agent Agreement. The latter is required if your company’s business activities and legal structure imply having a local partner or local service agent as a shareholder – for example, in the case of an LLC running an industrial or manpower supply operation. The sponsor can be a UAE national or a local company with a 51% share ownership of your business.

Note that there are companies providing the services of Corporate Nominees and LSAs. They take on the functions of a local partner or sponsor and help you deal with administrative issues, while you maintain actual control of the business.

5. Choose the Perfect Location and Office Space:

You will need to provide proof of office space in Dubai. This office space must suit your business activities and meet DED requirements. When it comes to mainland companies as opposed to free zone ones, you’re free to pick any location you like depending on your business needs. For example, if you’re running a trading operation focused on the import/export of goods, you can rent a warehouse adjacent to Dubai’s transportation hubs such as airports and seaports while having an office in a commercial area of the city.

You can choose an office setup suitable to your needs and funds. Some prefer turnkey options with all the necessities provided by the property owner such as furniture, phones, and internet access, while others prefer fully fitting the office out themselves or choose something in between. Note that each option implies different rent costs.

6. Apply for Company Registration and Mainland License:

Submit your application for company formation and license type to the DED or the relevant authority based on your business activities. You may also need to obtain additional approvals from government departments or regulatory bodies depending on your business type.

7. Pay Fees and Secure Your License and Approvals:

Once your application is approved, pay the necessary fees and you will receive your mainland license and any other necessary permits or approvals required for your specific business activity and company type.

8. Register for Taxation:

Register your company with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for taxation purposes. For instance, in 2023, the UAE authorities introduced a 9% corporate tax for particular businesses and entrepreneurs, so make sure that you comply with all the tax obligations. Seek expert advice if necessary.

9. Open a Corporate Bank Account:

Open a corporate bank account with a local bank in Dubai. You will need to provide the required documentation and meet the bank’s criteria.

10. Apply for Visa and Labor Approvals:

If you plan to hire employees, you will need to obtain employment visas and labor approvals from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. Mainland companies are not subject to restrictions on the number of employee visas, the only limitation is the size of your office space. The common rule is one visa per 100 sq. ft. (9 sq. m.).

Foreign owners of companies in Dubai mainland are eligible for residency visas, commonly referred to as investor or partner visas. These visas are issued for a period of one to three years. They can be renewed as long as you maintain ownership in the company and meet the visa renewal criteria. This also allows you to sponsor your family members and other possible dependents in terms of visas.

11. Seek Legal Counsel:

Consider seeking legal advice from a local business consultant or law firm with expertise in company formation in Dubai. They can guide you through the process and help you navigate any legal complexities.

It’s important to note that requirements and regulations for company formation in Dubai may change over time, so it’s essential to consult with local authorities or business consultants to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and guidance for your specific business venture.