تشكيل شركة دبي البر الرئيسي

تقع إمارة دبي في شبه الجزيرة العربية في جنوب الخليج العربي. تعتبر إمارة دبي هي أكثر إمارة في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة اكتظاظا بالسكان بين الإمارات السبع وثاني أكبر إمارة خلف إمارة أبو ظبي.

There are two jurisdictions in Dubai for conducting business: Dubai Mainland (beyond the territorial borders of free zones), on the one hand, and more than 20 free zones, on the other. Obtaining a Dubai mainland license is essential for businesses operating within the mainland jurisdiction, as it allows them to access a broader market and conduct activities without restrictions. These two jurisdictions offer distinct advantages depending on the type of business and activities conducted.

Mainland companies can take various legal forms that have specific requirements for registration procedures, operations and corporate structure. To ensure a seamless experience and full compliance with local regulations, our company formation specialists in Dubai provide comprehensive, expert guidance at every stage of the process. From initial planning to final implementation, we are dedicated to supporting you with tailored solutions and professional advice to set your business up for success.

A Dubai mainland company is registered directly with the DED, ensuring compliance with UAE commercial laws. This means that if you choose to conduct business in the UAE Mainland, you will need to register a business entity with the DED, which will then issue a business license for doing business in the UAE. Other key features include:

Beyond market access, a mainland license unlocks critical benefits:

The DED issues five primary licenses:

The Dubai mainland license cost varies depending on the type of business activity, legal structure, and additional requirements. For example, professional licenses typically start from AED 5,600 annually, while commercial licenses may cost upwards of AED 10,000. Additional expenses such as office space rental, government approvals, and visa fees also contribute to the overall cost.

Exclusions apply for activities requiring federal approvals (e.g., defense, banking).

Over 2,000 activities are permitted, spanning sectors like tech, education, healthcare, and construction. Certain activities (e.g., pharmaceuticals, aviation) require additional approvals from UAE regulatory bodies. Below are the most popular sectors and activities permitted under Dubai Mainland licenses, categorized by license type and aligned with market demand and regulatory frameworks:

Popular for businesses involved in buying, selling, or distributing goods:

• E-commerce and retail: Online marketplaces, fashion, electronics, and luxury goods.
• Import/export: Global trade of machinery, textiles, automotive parts, and consumer products.
• Wholesale trading: Bulk distribution of construction materials, electronics, and food products.
• Automotive trade: Car dealerships, spare parts, and vehicle maintenance services.

Why it’s popular: High demand in Dubai’s logistics-friendly environment and tax-free trading.

Ideal for knowledge-based and consultancy businesses:

• IT and software development: App development, cybersecurity, and AI solutions.
• Marketing and advertising: Digital marketing agencies, PR firms, and media production.
• Healthcare services: Medical clinics, dental practices, and telemedicine platforms.
• Legal and financial consultancy: Auditing, tax advisory, and corporate law firms.
• Engineering and architecture: Urban planning, sustainable design, and project management.

Why it’s popular: Dubai’s push to become a global tech and innovation hub, coupled with 100% foreign ownership in most service sectors.

Key for businesses in production or processing:

• Food and beverage manufacturing: Bottled water, snacks, and packaged foods.
• Textile and garment production: High-end fashion, sportswear, and fabric manufacturing.
• Construction materials: Cement, steel, and prefab building components.
• Renewable energy: Solar panel assembly, EV battery production.

Why it’s popular: Government incentives for industrial projects and Dubai’s strategic location for exporting to MENA, Asia, and Africa.

Thriving in Dubai’s tourism-driven economy:

• Travel agencies: Luxury tours, desert safaris, and visa assistance services.
• الضيافة: Hotel management, event planning, and catering.
• Entertainment: Theme parks, yacht charters, and cultural experiences.
• Health and wellness: Spa resorts, fitness centers, and wellness retreats.

Why it’s popular: Dubai attracts 16+ million tourists annually, creating endless opportunities in hospitality and leisure.

High-growth areas gaining traction:

• Sustainability and green tech: Waste management, eco-friendly products, and carbon consulting.
• Fintech and blockchain: Payment gateways, cryptocurrency platforms, and InsurTech.
• EdTech and e-learning: Online education platforms, vocational training, and STEM academies.
• Real estate brokerage: Property sales, short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb management).

Why it’s popular: Government initiatives like Dubai’s Green Economy Strategy and Blockchain 2030 Agenda.

Activities: Professional services only (e.g., consulting, engineering).

الملكية: Open to any nationality (non-UAE/GCC owners require a Local Service Agent).

Features:

• Trade name linked to the activity.
• Manager appointment (no residency requirements).
• No minimum capital.
• Scientific qualifications required for consultancy fields.

Branches: Multiple branches allowed under the main license.

Drawbacks: Unlimited liability; owner’s assets are at risk.

الملكية: 2–50 shareholders (100% foreign ownership permitted in most sectors).

Activities: Commercial, industrial, professional, or tourism.

Features:

• Trade name includes “Limited Liability” and must be derived from its activities or from the name/names of one or more partners.
• 1–11 managers (can be shareholders).
• No minimum capital or deposit.

Flexibility: Convertible to other legal forms (except public shareholding).

الملكية: 100% foreign-owned; no Local Service Agent required since 2021.

Activities: Mirror the parent company’s operations (commercial/industrial activities require Ministry of Economy approval).

Features:

• A UAE national service agent.
• Approval from the Ministry of Economy.

Manager: Appointed by the parent company’s board.

الضمان المصرفي: AED 50,000 renewable guarantee for the Ministry of Economy.

الملكية: GCC-owned companies can open branches without approvals.

Activities: Must align with the mainland’s authorized sectors.

Features:

• Trade name linked to the activity.
• No minimum capital.
• Restricted from certain activities like retail and hospitality.

Restrictions: Cannot engage in retail, restaurants, or labor recruitment.

• VAT Registration: Mandatory if annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000.
• Corporate Tax: 9% on profits over AED 375,000 (0% below this threshold).
• Annual Audits: Submit audited financial statements within 3 months of fiscal year-end.
• License Renewal: Annual renewal of license and office lease.

• Shareholders/managers passport copies and proof of address.
• Initial DED approval and trade name reservation certificate.
• Memorandum of Association (LLCs) or Parent Company Board Resolution (branches).
• Signed office lease agreement.
• For visas: Entry permits, medical test results, and Emirates ID application.

• Open a corporate bank account.
• Apply for Entry Permits and medical tests.
• Obtain Emirates ID and 2-year residence visas.

Upon registration, the Regulator issues the following documents:

• Certificate of Incorporation indicating the registration number and date, type of license, details of shareholder and share capital of the company;
• رخصة تجارية إماراتية for the declared type of business (valid for 1 year);
• شهادة الأسهم؛
• Memorandum & Articles of Association;
• ختم الشركة.

ITA streamlines complex processes, from licensing and visa applications to VAT compliance and annual audits. Our experts ensure your business meets UAE regulations while minimizing costs.

From company formation to post-registration compliance, we handle every aspect of the process.