A defined business activity
The licence states the activities your company may carry out. Some activities need approval from another body first.
Business setup
Mainland company formation in the UAE
Mainland company formation is typically the route for businesses that want to trade across the UAE market or work with local clients. Here is how it generally works, what you need to prepare and where we can help.
Who mainland suits
Mainland is typically chosen by businesses that sell to customers across the UAE, serve local clients, or want flexibility in where they operate.
It may not be the right route if your activity is tied to a specific free zone or if the company will mainly hold assets. In those cases compare the free zone and offshore options.
What makes mainland setup confusing
Founders commonly ask the same questions. Which activity code fits my business? Does the activity need approval from another body? What are the ownership rules? Do I need an office?
The answers depend on the activity and on the authority that licenses it. Rules can change, so confirm current requirements before you commit.
Requirements
Requirements vary. These are the items that commonly come up.
Owner and manager details
Identity documents and basic details of each owner and the manager are typically requested.
A company name
Names are usually checked against naming rules and existing registrations.
A business address
A licence typically requires a registered address. The type of premises depends on the activity.
Ownership structure
Ownership rules differ by activity and have changed over time, so check the current position for your case.
Process
A typical route is below. Order and detail vary by activity and authority.
Step 1: Plan
Confirm the activity, ownership and whether mainland is the right structure.Step 2: Reserve the name and apply for initial approval
Choose a trade name and request preliminary approval for the activity from the licensing authority.Step 3: Prepare the legal documents and premises
Complete the company's founding documents and arrange a business address where one is required.Step 4: Obtain the licence
Submit the application, pay the government fees and receive the licence once approved.Step 5: Complete follow-on steps
These may include a bank account, tax registrations and visas, depending on the business.
Who issues a mainland licence
In general, a mainland licence is issued by the licensing authority of the emirate where the business is based. Other activities may also need approval from a specialist regulator.
What we handle and what you provide
We agree the split with you in advance. You typically provide identity documents, ownership details and a clear description of the business.
The Nexoviz team handles this work itself. We explain the options and help with the application and the steps that follow. The licensing authority makes the decision and sets the fees.
Questions to settle before you apply
A few early decisions can make later steps easier. You do not need every answer before you contact us.
What will the company sell, and to whom?
The answer shapes the activity on the licence and whether mainland is the right route.
Who will own and manage it?
Ownership and management details are usually part of the application, so agree them between the owners first.
Where will the business operate from?
Premises requirements depend on the activity, so think about the address early.
Which follow-on steps will you need?
A bank account, tax registrations and visas can all take planning. List them at the start.
Related services
Business setup overview
Compare mainland, free zone and offshore options.
Residency and investor visas
Understand the visa routes for investors, employees and families.
Bank account opening support
Preparing documents for a business bank account.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners own a mainland company?
Ownership rules depend on the activity and have changed over time. Check the current rules for your activity, or ask us in a consultation.
Do I need an office?
A licence typically requires a registered business address. What kind of premises is accepted depends on the activity and the authority.
Can a mainland company work with customers outside the UAE?
Generally yes, but export, customs and licensing rules still apply to your activity. Confirm the details for your products or services.
How long does mainland formation take?
It depends on the activity, the approvals needed and how quickly documents are ready. We do not quote fixed timelines on this website.
How much does it cost?
Costs depend on the activity, the licence and the premises. We do not publish fixed fees. Describe your plans and we will discuss the cost with you.
Planning a mainland company?
Tell us about your activity and customers and we will discuss the next steps.
Information on this page is general and may change. Requirements are set by the relevant UAE authorities. Contact us for advice on your situation.
This is general information and not legal or tax advice.
Nexoviz is an independent company and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government authority unless stated.