
Mainland Company Setup Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is an excellent choice for registering Umm Al Quwain mainland license due to its convenient location within the UAE, offering great access to regional and international markets. Its growing infrastructure and government support for economic diversification make it an ideal hub for industries like manufacturing, logistics, and tourism.
Additionally, the Emirate’s relaxed lifestyle and focus on sustainability create a unique environment for investors.
Choosing the right consultancy firm to register your mainland company in Umm Al Quwain ensures an easy setup process, saving your time and effort while navigating complex legal and regulatory requirements. Our expert team provides end-to-end support, from licensing and documentation to strategic advice tailored to your business goals.
Why Choose Umm Al Quwain Mainland for Business?
Umm Al Quwain offers more affordable office spaces, labor costs, and living expenses compared to larger emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The UAQ government helps business growth by offering streamlined processes, reduced fees and support.
Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE, including other emirates, without the need for a local distributor or agent.
The Emirate is actively diversifying its economy, creating opportunities in sectors like tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics.
Business setup in UAQ mainland involves minimal bureaucracy, with faster approvals compared to other emirates.
UAE’s corporate tax exemptions and free repatriation of profits make UAQ an attractive jurisdiction for international investors.

Benefits of Umm Al Quwain Mainland License
UAQ mainland license offers many key benefits for investors and businesses looking to register company in the UAE. Here are the main advantages:
Types of Business Licenses in Umm Al Quwain
In UAQ, investors can obtain different types of licenses. The main categories are:
- Commercial License
Electronics trading, food distribution, building materials. - Professional License
IT services, marketing agencies, legal consultancies and engineering. - Industrial License
Factories, food processing, packaging. - Tourism License
Resorts, desert safari companies, yacht rentals. - Freelance Permit
Writers, graphic designers, consultants.
The average cost of a UAQ mainland business license ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000, depending on the activity and business structure.
Business Activities Permitted in UAQ Mainland
Over 2,000 business activities are permitted in UAQ mainland, spanning sectors such as trade, technology, education, healthcare, and construction. Some activities, such as pharmaceuticals and financial services, require additional regulatory approvals. Below are the most common business activities categorized by license type:
Commercial and Trading
Popular for businesses involved in buying, selling, or distributing goods:
- E-commerce and retail: Online marketplaces, fashion, electronics, and luxury goods.
- Import/export: 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 due to UAQ’s trade-friendly policies and tax-free import/export environment.
Professional Activities
Designed for service-oriented businesses:
- IT consultancy: Cybersecurity, software development, and cloud solutions.
- Marketing agencies: Digital marketing, SEO, and advertising firms.
- Legal consultancy: Law firms and legal advisors.
- Healthcare services: Medical clinics, physiotherapy centers, and wellness services.
Why it’s popular: Suitable for expatriates and professionals offering specialized expertise.
Industrial and Manufacturing
Required for manufacturing and production companies:
- Food processing: Packaged foods, dairy, and frozen foods.
- Construction materials: Cement, glass, and metal fabrication.
- Automobile assembly: Vehicle parts production and repair facilities.
Why it’s popular: Access to cost-effective industrial zones and proximity to UAE’s logistics hubs.
Tourism
Essential for businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector:
- Hotels and resorts: Beach resorts, boutique hotels, and eco-tourism lodges.
- Tour operators: Desert safaris, city tours, and adventure experiences.
- Yacht and boat rentals: Marine tourism and fishing excursions.
Why it’s popular: UAQ’s scenic coastline and growing tourism sector offer lucrative business opportunities.
Business Entities Permitted in UAQ
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Activities: Trading, services, and industrial activities.
Ownership: 2-50 shareholders.
Requirements: Trade name, office lease, capital deposit (varies by activity).
Drawbacks: Requires a formal structure and bookkeeping compliance.
Sole Establishment
Activities: Professional services such as consulting, legal advisory, and engineering.
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership allowed; some professions may require a Local Service Agent.
Requirements: Trade name registration, office lease, professional qualifications (if applicable).
Drawbacks: Unlimited liability, meaning the owner is personally responsible for business debts.
Branch of a Foreign Company
Activities: Operations must align with the parent company’s activities.
Ownership: 100% foreign ownership permitted without a local partner.
Requirements: Parent company’s incorporation documents, UAE trade license, office lease, UAE-based manager.
Drawbacks: Dependent on the parent company’s financial standing; subject to UAE compliance regulations.
Partnership Company
Activities: Professional services, small-scale businesses.
Ownership: Minimum two partners; at least one must be a UAE national.
Requirements: Partnership agreement, trade license, office space.
Drawbacks: UAE national partner must hold at least 51% ownership, limiting full foreign control.
Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC)
Activities: Large-scale businesses, financial institutions, industrial projects.
Ownership: Shares publicly traded; minimum of five founders required.
Requirements: Minimum capital of AED 10 million, regulatory approvals, listing on a stock exchange.
Drawbacks: Strict corporate governance and financial disclosure requirements.
Key Requirements for Business Setup in Umm Al Quwain
Key requirements for setting up a mainland business in UAQ:
- 01
Approved business activity.
- 02
Legal structure selection: LLC, Sole Establishment, etc.
- 03
Trade name reservation.
- 04
Valid tenancy contract.
Documents Required for a Company Set Up in UAQ
Register a mainland company in UAQ under the DED requires specific documents depending on the business activity and ownership structure:
Passport copies of all shareholders & managers.
- UAE residency visa copies and NOC from sponsor (if applicable).
- Signed Memorandum of Articles & Association.
- Tenancy contract for an office in UAQ.
- Approval from relevant authorities (e.g., Ministry of Health for medical businesses, Ministry of Education for training institutes).
- Approved trade name.
- Business Plan / CV.
How to Establish a Business in Umm Al Quwain?
- 01
Choose a business activity and legal form.
- 02
Reserve a trade name with DED.
- 03
Submit initial approval and required documents.
- 04
Sign the MOA.
- 05
Get external approvals (if required by the business activity).
- 06
Lease an office and register tenancy contract.
- 07
Pay fees and obtain the trade license.
Start Your Mainland Company Setup in Umm Al Quwain with ITA
Company formation in UAQ mainland involves navigating legal requirements, approvals, and documentation—which can be complex and time-consuming. By choosing our agency, you benefit from:

Our team has in-depth knowledge of UAQ DED regulations and ensures compliance.
No hidden fees - transparent pricing for licenses, visas and other services.
We help select the right legal structure.
Assistance with investor, employee, and family residency visas.
Choose ITA for a stress-free UAQ mainland company business setup!
with ITA Today!
With extensive expertise in UAE regulations and a steadfast commitment to client success, ITA is your trusted partner for Umm Al Quwain mainland company formation. Our team simplifies the process, providing tailored guidance to ensure a smooth and efficient setup.
Contact our specialists today to take the next step toward establishing your business through UAQ business setup. With over a decade of experience in international tax planning, a team of 200+ professionals, and a proven track record of 1,500+ successful client projects across 40 jurisdictions, ITA is equipped to support your business growth. From strategic planning to execution, we deliver customized solutions designed to meet your unique needs and drive long-term success.
Umm Al Quwain Mainland Company Set Up FAQ
- Trade license: AED 10,000 – AED 20,000 (varies by activity).
- Name reservation: ~AED 300.
- Tenancy contract registration: ~AED 1,500.
It takes 3–8 working days approximately.
Additional time may be required for office lease registration or special approvals.
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of mainland businesses in most sectors (except for a few restricted activities). However, some professional licenses may still require a Local Service Agent – our agency can assist in arranging one.
- License renewal.
- Financial audit (for certain activities).
- VAT filing (quarterly/monthly if registered).
- Economic Substance reporting (for relevant businesses).
- Office lease renewal (updated tenancy contract).