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UAE Mainland Company Formation

Have you considered setting up a business in UAE mainland? Unlock opportunities to explore diverse industries in the UAE and grow your enterprise both nationally and internationally.
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UAE Mainland Company Formation

The UAE is a thriving hub for trade in the Middle East and is recognized as one of the safest countries in the world. Its favorable tax policies and strong financial system make it an ideal destination for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses and open corporate bank accounts.

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a widely adopted business structure on the UAE mainland. Recent legal reforms have removed the need for local sponsorship in selected industries, allowing foreign investors to own 100% of their mainland companies. This significant update has made it easier for international businesses to operate independently in the UAE.

These reforms align with the amendments to Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 and the updated Law No. 26 of 2020, which regulate companies involved in various sectors, including trade, manufacturing, agriculture, real estate, and other economic activities on the mainland.

Under the UAE Government’s new resolutions, expats can achieve full ownership of mainland businesses by meeting specific conditions and capital requirements.

Depending on the industry and type of business, the minimum capital investment ranges from AED 2 million to AED 100 million, they are providing a streamlined pathway for global investors to establish a strong presence in the UAE’s dynamic market.

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UAE Business Startup Benefits

Starting a business in the UAE offers tax advantages, strategic location, a growing economy, 100% foreign ownership options, and access to global markets.
  • Access to rental commercial spaces in various locations.
  • Ability to participate in diverse business activities.
  • Full foreign ownership enables flexibility across UAE.
  • No limitations on currency usage.
  • Obtaining work visas is straightforward.
  • Advantages of participating in government contract bids.
  • Simplicity in opening a corporate bank account.

Why Choose Shapemybusiness?

With over 23 years of experience and more than 50,000 businesses successfully established, ShapeMyBusiness is the leading partner for Mainland Company Formation in UAE.

Customized solutions

Expert consultants

Simple process

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Features of UAE Mainland

Choose ShapeMyBusiness for seamless company formation in the UAE, offering expert guidance, tailored solutions, and hassle-free setup services.
  • UAE mainland companies operate locally and internationally, offering unlimited access to markets.
  • Recent reforms allow 100% foreign ownership in UAE mainland businesses, eliminating sponsors.
  • Mainland company formation has no mandatory minimum capital, benefiting startups and small businesses.
  • The UAE mainland offers top infrastructure, transportation, and global business connectivity.
  • Mainland companies can set up offices anywhere in the UAE, unlike free zone companies that are restricted to specific zones.
  • Mainland companies can sponsor employee and family visas, benefiting businesses and expatriates.

Mainland Company Types UAE

Mainland companies in the UAE offer flexibility and access to the local and international markets. Businesses can choose the appropriate structure based on their goals, industry, and requirements, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC is the most common type of mainland company, ideal for trading and commercial activities. It allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, providing liability protection to shareholders based on their capital contributions.

Sole Establishment

This structure is suitable for individual entrepreneurs. It allows full ownership and control by one person but does not provide liability protection, as the owner is personally liable for debts.

Civil Company

A civil company is for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and consultants. It enables partnerships between multiple individuals and allows 100% ownership by foreign professionals.

Branch of a Foreign Company

Foreign businesses can establish a branch in the UAE mainland to operate the same activities as the parent company. This option ensures a direct presence in the UAE market.

Representative Office

A representative office allows a foreign company to promote its business and explore the UAE market without conducting profit-generating activities. It is ideal for marketing and brand awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common queries about our services, processes, timelines, and benefits. We’re here to address all your concerns!
A UAE mainland company is a business entity that is registered and licensed under the UAE government’s Department of Economic Development (DED). It allows the company to operate anywhere in the UAE and engage in a wide range of business activities without the need for a local sponsor or partner, depending on the type of business.
Forming a mainland company in the UAE offers several advantages. You gain the freedom to operate across the entire UAE, without limitations on where you can do business. There is no requirement to lease office space within a free zone or offshore area, and you are eligible to participate in government and semi-government projects. Additionally, depending on the business activity, you may also be able to have 100% foreign ownership without needing a local partner.
Setting up a mainland company in the UAE requires several steps. First, you need to select and register a trade name for the company, which must be approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED). You must also secure a physical office location within the UAE. In some cases, a local sponsor or service agent is needed, depending on the business activity. Additionally, you will need to obtain a business activity license and may require additional permits, such as those for health, tourism, or other regulated sectors.
Yes, foreign investors can now own 100% of a mainland company in the UAE for most business activities, following recent changes to the UAE Commercial Companies Law. However, there are still certain sectors, such as oil and gas, media, and others, where a local partner or sponsor may be required.
The process of setting up a mainland company in the UAE typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the type of business. The timeline can be shorter for straightforward business activities but may take longer if additional permits or approvals are required for specific sectors.