Mainland Company Formation in Dubai: A Complete Guide for 2025

Why Setting Up a Mainland Business in Dubai is a Smart Move
Forming a mainland company in Dubai with Proxima Eight offers unmatched flexibility, access, and growth potential for entrepreneurs. Unlike free zone businesses, mainland companies are free to operate across the UAE and internationally, giving them a powerful competitive edge.


Key Benefits of Dubai Mainland Company Formation

1. Unlimited Market Access
Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE, including direct B2B, B2C, and government sectors, with no location restrictions.

2. 100% Foreign Ownership
Thanks to recent legal reforms, foreign investors can now fully own mainland companies in most sectors, eliminating the need for a local sponsor.*

3. Access to Government Contracts
Mainland companies are eligible to bid on high-value government projects. For example, the Abu Dhabi Executive Council allocated AED 17.5B to infrastructure, education, and social services in recent years.

4. Location Flexibility
Choose from a wide range of commercial spaces across Dubai and beyond, including strategic hubs like Jebel Ali, Business Bay, or Deira.

5. Broad Business Scope
Mainland companies can register over 2,000 business activities listed by the DED. Expanding your scope is straightforward through DED re-registration.

6. Unlimited Visa Quotas
Mainland businesses can apply for as many visas as needed, depending on office size—ideal for growing teams or service-heavy industries.

7. Multiple Branches
Build your presence across the Emirates by opening branch offices without legal restrictions.
Switching from Free Zone to Mainland
If your current free zone setup limits your ability to scale, Proxima Eight can help you make a seamless transition to the mainland. This strategic move unlocks new revenue streams, removes trade restrictions, and enables direct consumer and government engagement.


Step-by-Step Checklist for Mainland Company Formation

1. Choose Your Business Activity
Start by selecting from over 2,000 DED-approved commercial, industrial, or professional activities.

2. Select an Ideal Business Location
No restriction on location—choose based on industry, access, and budget. Proximity to ports like Jebel Ali is beneficial for trade.

3. Decide Your Legal Structure
Options include LLCs, Sole Establishments, and Civil Companies. LLCs are ideal for trading/manufacturing and may require a local sponsor for certain activities.

4. Local Sponsor or Service Agent (If Needed)
Commercial and industrial licenses may require a UAE national partner. Service companies can appoint a Local Service Agent without equity involvement.

5. Name Your Business
Follow UAE naming conventions: avoid offensive language, abbreviations, or religious references. Names must be phonetic—not translated.

6. Apply for a Trade License
Submit required documents to the DED including application forms, MOAs, and ownership/shareholder details.

7. Secure Office Space
Choose between ready-to-use serviced offices, pre-fitted units, or shell-and-core spaces depending on your budget and operational needs.

8. Apply for Visas
Visa allocation depends on office size (typically 100 sq. ft. per visa). As a business owner, you can also sponsor dependents and apply for investor visas.

9. Work with a Business Setup Consultant
Partnering with experts like Proxima Eight ensures a smooth, compliant, and efficient setup process. Avoid delays, legal missteps, and paperwork errors.

Ready to Launch Your Mainland Business in Dubai?
With full ownership, nationwide access, and a clear path to expansion, now is the perfect time to enter the UAE market.

Contact Proxima Eight — your trusted UAE business formation partner — and let’s build your mainland success story.