Mainland Business Setup In International City
Mainland refers to areas in Dubai and other Emirates that fall outside Free Zones. These regions are governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), which issues business licenses to operate anywhere in the UAE. A DED license provides businesses with full operational freedom across the Emirates.
Since the 2021 Commercial Companies Law update, most mainland businesses now allow 100% foreign ownership, with no local sponsor required for many activities. This has made it easier for French entrepreneurs to fully own and control their businesses in Dubai, enhancing market entry opportunities.
If you are planning to start a business in Dubai, International City is a smart choice. It reflects Dubai’s cosmopolitan lifestyle, with a large residential population of nearly 60,000 people, providing a strong customer base for new ventures. The area also offers budget-friendly rentals, ideal for both living and running a business efficiently.
International City is becoming a growing commercial hub, featuring numerous food outlets, retail shops, and essential services. The area is attracting significant investments from retail chains, real estate developers, and corporate companies. It is considered one of the most affordable and strategic locations in Dubai for French entrepreneurs and SMEs seeking business expansion in the UAE market.
Dubai International City Map
You can find Dubai International City in the Al Warsan area of Dubai, opposite the main fruits and vegetables market. The area is designed with clusters inspired by international architectural styles, creating a unique global-themed community. These clusters surround the Central Business District and include the themed area called the Forbidden City, inspired by Beijing.
As this area is very popular in Dubai, it experiences high footfall throughout the day—a major advantage for businesses in Mainland International City. This footfall offers French entrepreneurs an opportunity to reach a large and diverse customer base in a multicultural environment, ideal for retail, services, and hospitality businesses targeting international residents and tourists.
The location is also close to key locations in Dubai. On a non-peak hour, you can reach Dubai International Airport in 20 minutes. Burj Khalifa is 30 minutes, Dubai Mall is 20 minutes, and Mall of the Emirates is 25 minutes. So you and your target audience can reach important areas and your business location in about 30 minutes, making it very convenient for operations and client visits.
Benefits of starting a business in International City
International City offers numerous job opportunities across various sectors. Its multicultural environment and international appeal create opportunities for diverse skill sets and business activities, making it an attractive destination for French entrepreneurs and professionals looking to establish their presence in Dubai.
International City has freehold properties, allowing French expat investors to buy retail or commercial spaces with full ownership rights, unlike rental-only zones. This provides greater security and long-term investment potential for French businesses.
Rental costs in International City are lower compared to many other areas of Dubai. This affordability extends to both commercial spaces and residential apartments, making it a budget-friendly option for business owners who prefer to live and operate in the same community. Tenants benefit from competitive pricing while enjoying a well-developed neighbourhood.
Return on investment (ROI) in International City varies based on location within the area, property type, and market trends. With strategic decision-making, French investors can maximise ROI, ensuring long-term profitability and business sustainability.
While slightly outside central Dubai, International City is well connected to key areas. Its proximity to Academic City makes it especially suitable for French families prioritising easy access to educational institutions for their children, while ensuring smooth business operations in Dubai’s commercial ecosystem.
Types of Business License in International City
When starting a business in Dubai International City, French entrepreneurs must obtain the appropriate business licence based on their planned activities. These licences ensure legal compliance and smooth operations within the UAE. Below are the most common licences available for businesses in International City:
For manufacturing, production, and packaging businesses. French investors looking to set up production units or light manufacturing facilities require this licence.
For trading activities such as import/export, retail, wholesale, and general trading – ideal for French companies in FMCG, fashion, or electronics sectors.
For service-based businesses such as consulting, legal, marketing, IT, and other specialised services, suitable for French professionals and agencies establishing their UAE presence.
The Process of starting a Business in International City
Setting up a business in Dubai International City involves multiple steps. While the process can be complex, partnering with Flyingcolour Business Setup simplifies it for French entrepreneurs. However, understanding these steps will give you a clear overview before initiating your UAE business setup journey.
Let us take a look at the steps for starting a business in this area:
Select Your Business Activity, Determine the type of business you plan to start. Dubai offers over 2,100 business activities under commercial, professional, and tourism categories. Whether launching a small retail shop, consulting firm, or trading company, select activities aligned with your business goals. You can review the full list on the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) website.
Choose the legal structure for your company. Decide on the legal structure for your business. Options include sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). The structure determines operational rules, asset management, and partner responsibilities.
Gather all required documents such as passport copies, proposed business plan, and NOC (if applicable), then submit your application with these documents to the relevant authorities for review.
Pay Government Fees: After submission, pay the applicable government fees to process your business licence application.
Next, choose a unique name for your business. Make sure the name follows the naming guidelines issued by the authorities and does not have any restricted or offensive words.
Choose Your Business Name: Select a unique trade name for your business. Ensure the name complies with Dubai’s naming guidelines and does not include restricted, religious, or offensive words.
Documents Required for Mainland Company Setup in Dubai International City
To set up a mainland company in Dubai International City, French entrepreneurs, business owners and investors need to prepare and submit a set of mandatory documents. These documents are required by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) to ensure legal compliance with UAE commercial laws. Here’s a checklist for French nationals or NRIs planning to start their business in Dubai.
Documents to Register a Mainland Company in Dubai
- Memorandum of Association (MOA): This legal document outlines your company’s business activities, shareholder details and corporate structure. For French investors, it’s essential to clearly define ownership percentages and business objectives to comply with UAE regulations and open bank accounts smoothly.
- Lease Agreement: A valid tenancy contract is required as proof of office space in Dubai. Mainland companies must have a registered local business address. French companies prefer Dubai International City for its cost effective commercial units and proximity to logistics hubs.
- Passport Copies: Valid passport copies of all shareholders are mandatory. For French citizens, the passport must have a minimum of six months validity. This is also required for further visa processing and immigration clearance.
- Visa Status: If applicable, include copies of UAE residence visa pages or entry stamp pages of all shareholders and partners. This helps authorities to assess the visa eligibility and existing legal status of French residents in the UAE.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): If an French expatriate is entering into partnership with a UAE national (sponsor), a No Objection Certificate is required. This document confirms that the local Emirati sponsor has agreed to the business partnership terms and the selected commercial activity.
- Trade Name Reservation Certificate: Issued by the DED, this certificate confirms that the selected company name is approved and reserved. French brands expanding into Dubai should ensure the trade name is international and complies with DED naming regulations.
- Application Form: Provided by the DED, this form includes shareholder information, business activities and legal structure. Make sure all details are accurate and reflect the scope of work. Flyingcolour helps French clients to prepare and submit error free to expedite the approval process. All the above documents are required for trade licenses and approvals. French investors looking to expand to Dubai can benefit from tax free, strategic trade access and credibility of a mainland company setup.
Flyingcolour provides company registration, document processing and regulatory compliance services specifically for French entrepreneurs looking to set up a long term presence in the UAE.
Why Choose Us
Starting a business in Tcom International City is considered a streamlined process. However, the easier process might be complicated for beginners or foreigners. Flyingcolour Business Setup can help you convert the complexity of setting up a business into a straightforward process. We can guide you through the whole process of starting up a business in this area.
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Setting up a business in the UAE especially for French entrepreneurs or first-time investors can seem complex. However, with Flyingcolour expert guidance, the entire process becomes seamless and efficient. Speak with our experienced consultants at no cost and receive personalized advice on the most suitable business structure, jurisdiction, and compliance requirements—tailored specifically for French business goals in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can operate across entire UAE and international markets
Can trade with other mainland and government entities
No minimum capital required (in most legal structures)
100% foreign ownership possible in many sectors, especially beneficial for French founders
Commercial License – for trading and retail activities* Industrial License – for manufacturing or production activities
Professional License – for service based businesses and professionals Flyingcolour® helps French clients to identify the right license for their business.
Book a consultation (Free for French clients via Flyingcolour®)
Choose your business activity
Choose your trade name (must be DED approved)
Prepare and submit the required documents
Choose your business location (Dubai International City is popular among French SMEs)
Apply for your business license
Open a UAE corporate bank account
Apply for visas
Get your company registration certificate