Company Formation in Dubai Mainland

To succeed in the competitive corporate world, choosing to set up your business in Dubai Mainland can be an excellent option. The Emirate’s government has implemented new corporate laws and streamlined the process for obtaining trade licenses, making it more accessible and flexible. As a result, setting up a business in Dubai Mainland has become a popular trend among entrepreneurs and investors alike.

Thanks to recent changes in FDI regulations, it is now possible for foreign investors to set up businesses in Dubai Mainland without requiring a local sponsor. Moreover, foreign investors can enjoy complete ownership of their businesses at reasonable trading license costs.

This article will explore the benefits of company formation in Dubai Mainland and provide a comprehensive guide to the entire process. So, let’s delve deeper into this topic.

How to Setup Business in Dubai Mainland?

Below is the roadmap to setting up a business in Dubai Mainland without any hassle or roadblocks:

Step 1: Choose your Business Industry

One of the first steps to consider when planning your company formation in Dubai Mainland is to choose an industry for your business. Next, you can review the full-ownership business activities provided by Dubai’s Department of Economic Development. 

By selecting the appropriate industry, businesses can take advantage of the opportunities available in Dubai Mainland and establish a strong foothold in the region. 

Additionally, the absence of restrictions on business activities and offshore ownership allows for greater flexibility and diversification, which can benefit companies seeking to expand their operations in the UAE and beyond.

Step 2: Choosing the Mainland Location in Dubai

After finalizing your industry, the next crucial step is to choose the appropriate jurisdiction for your company formation in Dubai Mainland. As discussed in this article’s first section, the laws and regulations are uniform across all Dubai Mainland territories.

Selecting the right location for your business is critical and should be based on your budget and target market. 

For example, if your business relies heavily on imports/exports of goods, setting up your company near a port area like Jebel Ali may be beneficial. In addition, by setting up your company in Dubai Mainland, you can open branches in multiple territories, which can help expand your business reach and increase your market share.

By carefully considering these factors, businesses can select the most suitable jurisdiction for their company formation in Dubai Mainland, ultimately leading to greater success and profitability.

Step 3: Choose your Business Name

Choosing the right business name is crucial and requires careful consideration to align with your company’s mission and vision. However, it’s important to note that there are some restrictions to be aware of when selecting a business name in Dubai Mainland. 

For instance, names with double meanings, religious or sectarian inclinations, or similar brand names are strictly prohibited.

To avoid any legal issues, it’s recommended to choose a unique and distinctive name that can be used as your brand identity. This will help your company stand out from competitors and make it easier for customers to remember and recognize your business.

Step 4: Application for Trade License in Dubai Mainland

The next step is to apply for a Trade license in Dubai Mainland to DED. So before jumping on the bandwagon, check out the following documents required for business setup in Dubai Mainland.

• License Application
• Attested LLC agreement
• Business Name reservation & initial approval documents
• Tenancy agreement
• EJARI certificate
• Copy of Passport with a valid visa for all stakeholders
• Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry Registration

Step 5: Finalize your office location

Once you obtain your Dubai Mainland trade license, the next step is to secure office space. Serviced offices are a popular option as they come fully furnished and maintained by a third-party provider. However, if you have the budget and desire to customize your office space, you can rent an unfurnished office.

Step 6: Visa Applications

Regarding visa applications for foreign investors in Dubai Mainland, there are no limits on the number of applications that can be submitted. 

However, the number of visa applications is determined by the size of your office space, with a general rule of 100 square feet per employee application. This requirement can be waived for companies with remote employees working from different locations.

License Options & Cost in Dubai Mainland

Depending on your industry or business niche, you can choose from three different types of licenses to register your company in Sharjah:

• Commercial license: For businesses involved in frequent import/export of goods
• Professional license: For businesses offering professional services like cleaning services, decoration services, wedding planning, consultancy, etc.
• Industrial license: For businesses involved in small or large-scale manufacturing of goods

FAQs About Company Formation in Dubai Mainland

Conclusion

Business setup in Dubai Mainland has become a favorable option for offshore investors due to its liberal ownership laws and flexibility in business activities. 

In addition, the absence of income tax and the availability of diverse business avenues make Dubai Mainland a promising location for businesses to flourish. Choosing the right industry and jurisdiction, opting for suitable office space, and complying with visa regulations are essential for a successful company formation in Dubai Mainland. 

With the proper preparation and understanding of the UAE’s business scene, offshore investors can confidently establish their business in Dubai Mainland.