Mainland Company Setup
Setting up a mainland company in the UAE is one of the most powerful ways to establish a fully operational, legally recognized business that can trade anywhere within the Emirates and internationally. A mainland license allows you to operate without geographical restrictions, work with government entities, open corporate bank accounts, and hire an unlimited number of employees depending on your office space.
At AZ Corporate Services, we make the process of forming a mainland company smooth, compliant, and efficient—guiding you through every government requirement and ensuring your business starts with a strong and secure foundation.
What Is a Mainland Company in the UAE?
A mainland company is registered under the UAE Department of Economic Development (DED) of each emirate. It allows businesses to operate inside and outside the UAE without any limitations. This makes it the preferred choice for companies that plan to expand, hire employees, or work with government and semi-government bodies.
Mainland companies enjoy unmatched flexibility, access to the entire UAE market, and the ability to operate in a wide range of commercial, professional, and industrial sectors.
Benefits of Setting Up a Mainland Company
Mainland companies offer unparalleled advantages for businesses looking to establish a strong presence in the UAE
Full Access to the UAE Market
Trade, offer services, and conduct business anywhere in the UAE—unrestricted by zone boundaries.
Work with Government Entities
Mainland licenses allow you to take contracts from government departments, major developers, and semi-government organizations.
No Limits on Office Location
You can choose any office, showroom, shop, warehouse, or business center approved by the DED.
Unlimited Visa Eligibility
Hire as many employees as your office space can support.
Wide Range of Business Activities
Thousands of commercial and professional activities are available under mainland licensing.
Ability to Expand Freely
No restrictions on adding new activities, expanding branches, or opening new offices in the future.
Flexible Ownership Structures
Depending on the activity, investors can enjoy full ownership and complete management control.
Types of Mainland Licenses
Mainland companies can be formed under several license categories
Commercial License
For businesses engaging in trading, retail, wholesale, contracting, and general commercial activities.
Professional License
For service-oriented companies such as consultancy, IT services, marketing, and other professional services.
Industrial License
For manufacturing, production, assembly, and industrial operations.
Tourism License
For travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality service providers.
Each license type has its own setup requirements, which we manage end-to-end.
Mainland Company Setup Process
We handle every step of the mainland formation process, ensuring compliance with the Department of Economic Development and other relevant authorities.
Business Activity Consultation
We help you choose the right business activity based on your current goals and future expansion plans.
Trade Name Reservation
We secure your official business name approval with the respective DED.
Initial Approval
Once your activity is selected, we obtain the necessary approvals to proceed with the licensing process.
Drafting of Legal Documents
We prepare: Memorandum of Association (MOA), Service Agent Agreement (if required), Partnership agreements. All documents are drafted in accordance with UAE regulations.
Office or Workspace Setup
We guide you in choosing: Office spaces, Business centers, Warehouses, Retail shops depending on your business requirements.
Final License Issuance
Once all steps are completed, your mainland business license is issued, and your company becomes fully operational.
Visa Processing (Optional)
We assist with: Establishment Card, Employee visas, Partner visas, Emirates ID, Medical fitness procedures.
Bank Account Assistance
We help you open a corporate account with leading banks in the UAE.
Documents Required for Mainland Setup
The required documents are straightforward and include
Passport copy of shareholders
Passport-size photographs
Visa copy (if applicable)
Entry stamp or Emirates ID (if in UAE)
Trade name options
Business activity details
Additional documents may be requested depending on the activity or structure.
Start Your Mainland Company Today
Setting up a mainland company in the UAE opens endless opportunities—from government contracting to large-scale local business operations. Our experts are ready to assist you at every step.
Contact AZ Corporate Services today to begin your mainland company setup