Dubai Mainland Business Setup: Unlock Access to the UAE Market
Dubai’s dynamic and ever-growing economy makes it an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to establish a strong business presence in the UAE. Setting up a business in the Dubai mainland offers unmatched access to the local market, a broader customer base, and greater operational flexibility.
To begin your mainland business setup in Dubai, the first step is selecting the right business license. Depending on your activity, you’ll choose from one of three main license types: Commercial, Professional, or Industrial. Each is designed for specific business operations, so it’s essential to align your license with your intended activities. Additionally, you’ll need to decide on a suitable legal structure, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or Limited Liability Company (LLC)—based on your business goals.
The registration process includes several key steps:
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Gathering necessary documents (e.g., passport copies, business plan)
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Submitting an application to the Department of Economic Development (DED)
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Securing initial approvals
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Choosing and registering a trade name
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Obtaining your official trade license
This process has been streamlined in recent years to attract more foreign investment and make business setup in the UAE faster and easier.
Another major advantage is the relaxation of foreign ownership laws. Today, many business activities in the mainland allow 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. However, certain sectors still require Emirati partnership—so expert advice is essential to ensure full legal compliance and strategic planning.
At Pro Services in UAE, we help you navigate the complexities of mainland business setup, from license selection and document preparation to registration and post-launch support—so you can focus on growing your business while we handle the formalities.
