What is UAE Mainland Company Formation?
A mainland company (also called an onshore or DED company) is registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective emirate. Unlike free zone companies, mainland businesses can trade freely within the UAE and internationally without restrictions. Since the UAE amended its Commercial Companies Law in 2020, foreign investors can now hold 100% ownership of mainland companies in most business activities.
Mainland companies are ideal for businesses that need direct access to the UAE consumer market, want to bid on government tenders, or require a physical presence across multiple emirates. YABS handles every step of your mainland setup, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations while minimizing delays and unnecessary costs.
Benefits of Mainland Company Formation in UAE
100% Foreign Ownership: Under the updated UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign entrepreneurs can now own their mainland business entirely without a local sponsor for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities.
Unrestricted Market Access: Trade directly with any business or consumer in the UAE without geographic or market restrictions — unlike free zone companies that face limitations on direct mainland trading.
Government Contract Eligibility: Only mainland-licensed companies can bid on and execute UAE government projects and tenders, opening a massive revenue stream for qualifying businesses.
No Minimum Capital Requirement: For most business activities, there is no mandatory minimum share capital, making mainland formation accessible to startups and established businesses alike.
Flexible Office Solutions: Mainland companies can operate from shared offices, co-working spaces, or traditional commercial premises depending on the activity type and emirate regulations.
Unlimited Visa Quota: Your visa allocation is determined by your office space size, with no cap on the number of employee visas you can obtain.
Multi-Emirate Operations: A single mainland license allows you to establish branches across different emirates, expanding your physical and operational reach across the entire UAE.
Mainland Company Formation Process — Step by Step
Step 1 — Choose Your Business Activity: Select from over 2,000 licensed activities across commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism categories. YABS helps you identify the right activity codes that match your business plan.
Step 2 — Select Your Legal Structure: Choose the appropriate company type — Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or Branch of a Foreign Company.
Step 3 — Reserve Your Trade Name: Submit your preferred company name for approval through the DED naming system.
Step 4 — Obtain Initial Approval: YABS submits your application for initial approval from the DED.
Step 5 — Draft Legal Documents: Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA), tenancy contract (Ejari), and any required NOCs from relevant government authorities.
Step 6 — Obtain Your Trade License: With all documents in order, YABS processes your trade license through the DED. Most mainland licenses are issued within 3-5 business days.
Mainland Company Formation Cost
The cost of forming a mainland company in the UAE varies depending on the emirate, business activity, number of visa allocations, and office requirements. YABS offers competitive mainland company formation packages starting from AED 12,500, which typically include trade license fees, initial approvals, government fees, and document drafting. Contact YABS for a customized quote tailored to your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners own 100% of a mainland company in the UAE?
Yes. Following the 2020 amendment to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can hold full ownership of mainland companies across most business activities.
How long does it take to form a mainland company?
With YABS handling the process, most mainland company formations are completed within 5-7 business days from the date all documents are submitted and approved.
What is the minimum capital required?
There is no minimum capital requirement for most mainland business activities.
Can a mainland company trade internationally?
Absolutely. Mainland companies can import, export, and trade both locally within the UAE and internationally without any restrictions.
What is the difference between mainland and free zone?
Mainland companies can trade directly in the local UAE market, bid on government contracts, and operate anywhere in the country. Free zone companies are limited to trading within their free zone or internationally.
Start Your Mainland Business Today
Ready to establish your mainland company in the UAE? YABS provides complete company formation services with expert guidance at every step. Contact us today for a free consultation and personalized quote.
