Dubai Mainland Company Setup (2026 Guide): Process, Cost, and Requirements

Setting up a company on the Dubai mainland remains one of the most attractive options for exploring the UAE investment market in 2026. With its initiatives towards economic diversification, favourable regulatory frameworks, and investor-friendly policies, establishing a business in the mainland provides long-term flexibility, scalability, and direct access to both local and international markets. 

This guide will provide a simple breakdown of the process, benefits, costs, and key requirements, as well as the considerations entrepreneurs and investors need to make for 2026. 

What Is a Dubai Mainland Company?

A business legally licensed to operate within the non-free zone areas in Dubai and across the UAE, without any geographical restrictions, is classified as a Mainland Company. They are regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED), now operating under Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism.

Unlike free zone companies, one of the main benefits of a mainland setup is that it can trade directly with the UAE market, work alongside government entities, and open branches anywhere in the country. 

Why Choose Mainland Company Formation in Dubai?

Here are some of the leading reasons why a Dubai mainland company remains a preferred choice for entrepreneurs: 

Full Market Access

Complete freedom to carry out trade anywhere in the UAE without the need for intermediaries or distributors.

100% Foreign Ownership

With recent legislative reforms, mainland companies can now have 100% ownership without the previous requirement for a local shareholder in many sectors.

Eligibility for Government Contracts

Can bid for UAE government and semi-government contracts, giving exclusive access to high-profile, long-term projects. 

No Currency Restrictions

Businesses can use any currency for transactions, facilitating easy international and cross-border operations. 

Unlimited Visa Quotas

Employment visa eligibility depends on the office space and not the type of company. This promotes scalable workforce planning. 

Mainland Company Licences in Dubai

Your choice of license determines which business activities are permitted in the city and across the country. Here is a list of common types of mainland company licenses in Dubai: 

Commercial Licence

Ideal for trading activities, including import, export, retail, and general trading.

Tourism Licence

Designed for travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality-related businesses.

E-commerce Licence

Specialised licence for businesses carrying out online trading or digital services.

Professional Licence

Exclusively caters to service-based businesses, including consultancy, legal services, engineering, IT, marketing, and creative professions.

Industrial Licence

Essential license type for manufacturing, production, and industrial operations. It may require additional approvals and, in some cases, local participation.

Step-by-Step Mainland Company Setup Process (2026)

1. Define Your Business Activity

Clearly understanding your business activity is crucial for choosing a license type and determining whether any other external approvals are required. Dubai offers thousands of approved activities, providing significant operational flexibility.

2. Select a Legal Structure

Choose a suitable legal structure for your business. They include: 

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• Private or Public Shareholding Company

• Sole Establishment

• Civil Company

Generally, many businesses choose an LLC because of its flexibility and credibility.

3. Reserve a Trade Name

Next, choose a suitable business or trade name. Make sure it aligns with the UAE’s naming regulations. Some of these rules include avoiding restricted or prohibited terms, alongside ensuring cultural appropriateness.

4. Prepare Legal Documentation

General documents required for the setup process include: 

• Passport Copies

• Visa Pages

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Service agent agreements (Where applicable)

5. Secure Office Space

Businesses that want to establish in the Dubai mainland should have a physical office space. You can choose from a fully serviced office or flexi-desk options, depending on your team size, operational needs, and other visa requirements. 

6. Obtain Initial and Final Approvals

Submit the application form to the DED and any other relevant government entities as required or requested. Once you have the approval, you will need to pay the registration fee to receive the license. 

7. Register for Taxation

Businesses must register with the Federal Tax Authority for VAT (if applicable) and comply with UAE corporate tax regulations introduced in recent years.

8. Open a Corporate Bank Account

You should open a corporate bank account with either a local or an international bank. This process may require compliance and due diligence checks. 

9. Apply for Visas

Investor, partner, and employee visas can be issued following licence activation and establishment card registration.

Cost of Mainland Company Setup in Dubai (2026)

The exact cost of setting up a Minaland company in Dubai varies by business activity, visa requirements, and office requirements. Some of the key factors that influence the price include: 

• Trade licence fees

• Government and administrative charges

• Name reservation and initial approval

• Office rent and Ejari registration

• Visa and immigration costs

On the surface, the cost of a mainland company may appear expensive when compared to the free zone. However, when you assess the long-term benefits and operational flexibility, it often leads to significant commercial value with sustainable outcomes. 

Mainland vs Free Zone: Key Differences

Compliance and Ongoing Requirements

Mainland companies should comply with UAE labour laws, corporate tax filings, AT obligations, license renewals, and office lease renewals during operations. This is where getting professional advisory support for business setups is strongly recommended to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency. It reduces the potential for legal errors, fines, penalties, and other unnecessary costs and reputational damages. 

Is a Mainland Company Right for You?

Deciding if a mainland company is ideal for your business comes down to vision and objectives. It is the perfect option for businesses that are looking to get: 

• Direct access to the UAE market

• Long-term expansion potential

• Government and corporate contracts

• Operational flexibility across multiple sectors

Key Takeaways

Setting up your business in the Dubai Mainland in 2026 is one of the most stable and powerful entry points into the UAE. All you need is the right planning, strategic structure, and risk management. 

It is always best to get expert guidance when exploring new and dynamic markets like Dubai. It facilitates a tailored roadmap, cost planning, compliance, and a future-ready company formation journey.