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Your Mainland Business Services
- Customized packages for your business type
- Quick DED approvals and documentation
- End-to-end visa and PRO support
Mainland Company Setup in UAE
Unlock Limitless Growth with UAE Mainland Company Formation
Setting up a business on the UAE mainland gives entrepreneurs direct access to the local market and the freedom to operate across the UAE and beyond. A mainland license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of each emirate and allows for greater operational flexibility, visa eligibility, and commercial opportunities.
Whether you’re a small business owner or a multinational investor, the UAE mainland offers an ideal environment for sustainable growth—with 100% foreign ownership now allowed in most sectors.
Key Benefits of Mainland Company Formation
100% Foreign Ownership in most commercial activities
No Limitations on Business Location across the UAE
Eligibility for Government Projects & Tenders
Unlimited Visa Quotas (depending on office size)
Wider Business Scope compared to Free Zones
Easy Expansion within the UAE or internationally
Legal Structures in UAE Freezones
Sole Proprietorship
Single shareholder company
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Multiple shareholders (2 or more)
Branch of Foreign Company
UAE or foreign company branches
Mainland Company Formation Process
Choose your business activity
Select a legal structure
Reserve your trade name
Obtain initial approvals from relevant authorities
Draft and notarize the MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Secure office space
Submit final documents and obtain license
Apply for visas and corporate bank accounts
Why Trust IBS for Mainland Business Setup?
Government Liaison – We manage all approvals from DED and related departments
Local Sponsorship Support – Transparent and reliable local partnership
Complete Setup & Renewal Support – From start to scaling up
Compliance & Regulation Guidance – Ensure ongoing success in line with UAE laws
Mainland Business Setup in Major UAE Cities
Covered By IBS Business Services
Dubai Mainland
Dubai is the commercial heart of the UAE and a global hub for trade, tourism, real estate, technology, and finance. A Dubai mainland license issued by the Dubai DED allows businesses to operate anywhere in the UAE and access a diverse consumer base.
Ajman Mainland
Ajman is an emerging destination for small businesses and startups due to its affordability and simplified setup process. The Ajman DED offers quick approvals and budget-friendly packages for entrepreneurs.
Abu Dhabi Mainland
As the UAE's capital, Abu Dhabi offers a robust infrastructure for industries like oil & gas, construction, healthcare, and finance. Business licenses are issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
Sharjah Mainland
Sharjah, known for its cultural heritage and industrial strength, offers a business-friendly environment for SMEs and manufacturers. Licensing is handled by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).
Why Trust IBS
For Mainland Business Setup
2006 Year of establishment
10
K
24
/7
Government Liaison
We manage all approvals from DED and related departments
Local Sponsorship Support
Transparent and reliable local partnership
Complete Setup & Renewal Support
From start to scaling up
Compliance & Regulation Guidance
Ensure ongoing success in line with UAE laws
Build Your Future with Confidence –
Partner with IBS
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Business advices given over 30 years500+
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Business Excellence awards achieved30+
We have a close working relationship with all government agencies.
Each setup type serves different business goals. Freezone companies offer 100% foreign ownership and are ideal for international trade and tech-based firms. Mainland companies can trade directly in the UAE market. Offshore companies are best for asset protection and international business without physical presence.
Yes, UAE Freezones and Offshore jurisdictions allow 100% foreign ownership. Mainland companies also allow full ownership in many sectors following recent reforms.
Company formation in a Freezone usually takes 3 to 7 business days, depending on the jurisdiction, business activity, and document submission.
Only Mainland companies previously required a local sponsor, but now many sectors allow full foreign ownership. Freezone and Offshore setups do not require a local sponsor.
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