Home » Mainland Company Setup
Mainland Company Formation
Looking to start a business in the UAE, with an easy setup and added benefits?
A mainland business setup might just be the answer.
Check out the benefits and process of setting up in this jurisdiction.
Home » Mainland Company Setup
Mainland Company Formation
Looking to start a business in the UAE, with an easy setup and added benefits?
A mainland business setup might just be the answer.
Check out the benefits and process of setting up in this jurisdiction.
Overview
Mainland companies
can conduct business within the UAE and internationally and are allowed to bid for government projects and tenders. Moreover, mainland companies are not limited to specific industries or activities and can conduct business in any sector, subject to obtaining the necessary permits and licenses.Benefits of Setting Up in the Mainland
- Access to the local and international market
With Mainland company formation in Dubai, companies established have access to the local market of the UAE, along with the international market.
- 100% foreign ownership
With the laws in place, businesses in the mainland zone can own 100% of the company and get right down to business without having to look for an Emirati partner. Foreign investors have enormous potential to contribute to the UAE’s growth-machine economy with 100% foreign ownership of mainland UAE businesses.
- No restrictions on business activities
A mainland company has no geographical constraints and no prohibitions on business with other companies. Mainland businesses can conduct business with consumers or provide services to the government. Businesses here can open many branches and establish a strong presence across the country with a mainland company setup.
- No minimum capital requirement
There is no minimum capital requirement to set up a business in the mainland, which makes it easier for startups to establish their businesses. To know about the cost of mainland company setup in Dubai, please contact us.
- Tax benefits
The UAE has a favourable tax regime, with no corporate or personal income tax.
Why Choose Business Link for a Mainland Company Setup?
Simplified
Process
Our company formation services simplify the process of setting up a business in the mainland. From document preparation, and obtaining necessary permits and licenses to the final setup – we’ve got you.
Strong
Government Ties
Business Link’s strong ties with the government give an extra edge to our clients by accelerating their paperwork and getting special approvals from the authorities in no time!
Expertise
& Experience
With two decades in the industry, we understand the legal and regulatory requirements for setting up a business in mainland and can provide expert guidance and support throughout the process.
The Process
The process of setting up a business in mainland UAE involves the following steps:
- Step 1
Choose a local sponsor: Depending on the nature of your business, your foreign company may require having a local sponsor to establish a business. These include energy, oil and gas, etc. A local sponsor can be an individual or a company that is a UAE national. Ensure this step with a business consultancy before moving forward.
- Step 2
Pick a business activity: Companies must choose a business activity that is permissible under UAE law. One can choose from the 2000+ activities listed under the Dubai Economic Department and similar government entities specific to the emirate. Some of these activities include ecommerce, media and publishing, agriculture, hospitality and manufacturing.
- Step 3
Identify the business structure: There are several legal business structures to setup your company under. Some of the common ones are: Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC), etc. LLC is the most common type of business establishment in the UAE.
- Step 4
Reserve a trade name: The company must reserve a unique trade name for their business. There are a few things to keep in mind when naming your business in the UAE. For example, it is not permitted to use offensive language, make religious allusions, or imply support for other organizations. The trade name must only contain full names. Also, if translated into another language, the name must be written as sounded, not literally translated.
- Step 5
Obtain initial approval: The company must obtain initial approvals from relevant authorities, such as the DED and other regulatory bodies, depending on the nature of the business activity.
- Step 6
Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA): The MOA is a legal document that outlines the company’s activities, ownership structure, and other details. You can check the documentation required, as per the structure and business activity of your company with a business consultant.
- Step 7
Rent office space: The company must rent an office space in the mainland to obtain a trade license. The UAE offers a wide range of office spaces, from rentals to flexi-desks and co-working spaces to virtual offices. You can choose one that fits the size and budget of your business.
- Step 8
Obtain a trade license: This stands as the crucial point in setting up your business in the UAE. The company must obtain a trade license from the DED to carry out business activities in the mainland. You will need to submit all required documents during this step.
- Step 9
Register for taxes: Companies must register for taxes with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) if they meet the taxable threshold.
- Step 10
Open a corporate bank account: Companies must open a corporate bank account in the UAE to carry out their business activities.
- Step 11
Apply for visas: Business owners in the UAE mainland are not subject to any restrictions when applying for visas. Nonetheless, the area of office space needed should be in line with the number of visas requested. 100 sq. ft. of office space per visa is the standard rule.
Additionally, foreign owners can obtain an investment visa by which they can sponsor their families to live and work in the UAE for up to three years.
Overall, the process of setting up a business in mainland UAE involves several steps and it is recommended to partner with a local business setup consultancy to ensure you have a smooth business setup in the UAE mainland. It is also important to note that the process may vary depending on the nature of the business activity and the emirate in which the company is being set up.