Business Setup In United Arab Emirates (UAE) Mainland

Mainland Company Formation In UAE With Department Of Economic Development DED

Start a Business in Dubai Mainland from the USA

Are you a US entrepreneur looking to expand your reach and tap into one of the world’s most exciting and profitable markets? Dubai, the city of innovation, opportunity, and growth, beckons! With its location, business-friendly policies, and infrastructure, it’s the ultimate destination for international investors.

This guide is for individuals and companies from the US looking to start a business in the Dubai Mainland. We’ll take you through every step, explain the process of business setup in Dubai Mainland from the USA, and why this is the best place for your global expansion.

Dubai Mainland

Why Dubai Mainland for Your Business Setup?

 

Dubai Mainland, also known as onshore Dubai, is governed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Unlike Free Zones, which have geographical and operational restrictions, a Mainland company offers complete freedom and flexibility, making it a highly attractive option for businesses with big plans.

Here’s why entrepreneurs from the USA are increasingly choosing to start a business in Dubai Mainland from the USA:

 

➤ 100% Foreign Ownership: A game changer! Recent reforms in the UAE Commercial Companies Law now allow 100% foreign ownership for most business activities on the Mainland. No more need for a local sponsor holding 51% of your company shares, you have full control and autonomy over your business and profits.

 

➤ Unrestricted Market Access: This is the biggest advantage. A Mainland company can trade directly with the local UAE market, deal with government entities and open branches anywhere in the UAE. Crucial for businesses looking for a strong local presence and direct access to a huge customer base.

 

➤ Diverse Business Activities: Dubai Mainland has over 2,000 business activities to choose from, including commercial, professional, industrial and even tourism. You can find the perfect fit for your business model.

 

➤ Flexible Office Locations: Unlike Free Zones with designated areas, Mainland companies can choose their office location anywhere in Dubai, offering more flexibility and prestige in prime locations.

 

➤ Unlimited Visa Quota (Based on Office Size): Mainland companies generally have more flexibility with visa quota for employees, which is tied to the size of your office space. Big benefit for businesses looking to scale up.

 

➤ Eligibility for Government Contracts: Many government tenders and projects are exclusive to Mainland companies, offering huge growth opportunities.

 

➤ No Capital Repatriation Restrictions: You can fully repatriate your capital and profits back to the USA, with complete financial flexibility.

 

➤ Simplified Banking: While there are strict compliance requirements (especially for US citizens due to FATCA), setting up a corporate bank account in Dubai Mainland is generally a smooth process once your company is fully registered.

 

➤ Prestigious Image: Operating from the Dubai Mainland gives you a more established and respected image in the UAE business community.

Benefits of Dubai Mainland Company Formation

 

Buses, metro, taxis, Uber, Careem and a well-developed road and bridge network.

 

Legal & Business Support: Strong law and order and experienced law firms to support business.

 

Communication & Utilities: Modern telecom services, stable electricity and high-speed internet.

 

Healthcare: In regulated hospitals and clinics, health insurance is mandatory for all residents

 

Recruitment: Multicultural talent pool with an easy recruitment process.

 

Business Events & Exposure: Home to top global exhibitions, trade fairs and conferences that attract worldwide business leaders.

 

Digital & Smart Governance: The Government uses digital technology to make approvals and business easier.

 

Strategic Business Location: The Economy is supported by global financial institutions and international auditing firms.

 

Office Locations: Choose from popular areas like Bur Dubai, Business Bay, DIFC, Sheikh Zayed Road and JLT.

Post-Expo Growth: Expo 2021 has boosted infrastructure and created more opportunities for foreign companies in Dubai..

 

Tourism and entertainment: Dubai’s attractions—from Burj Khalifa and Global Village to Bollywood Parks and Gold Souk—continue to attract global tourists, supporting industries like hospitality, food, travel and retail.

 

Growing sectors: Hospitality, tourism, restaurants, car rentals and entertainment industries are great opportunities for USA entrepreneurs looking to set up business in Dubai.

We can help you set up mainland companies in Dubai. Our team will help you prepare a business plan and choose the right company type based on your activity and business objectives.

DED Licence

Business Entity Structure

For US entrepreneurs and businesses looking to operate in mainland areas of any UAE emirate (outside Free Zones), a trade license has to be obtained directly from the respective Department of Economic Development (DED). Dubai and other emirates have Free Zones where American investors can set up 100% foreign-owned companies without the need for a local sponsor. These Free Zones operate under their own regulations and are exempt from UAE federal commercial laws, making them very attractive for American business owners who want full control of their business.

Cost of Business Setup in Dubai Mainland from the USA

 

The total cost to start a business in Dubai Mainland from the USA can vary significantly based on several factors, including:

 

➜ Business Activity & License Type: Professional licenses are generally less expensive than commercial or industrial licenses.

 

➜ Legal Structure: LLCs may have different fee structures than corporations.

 

➜ Office Space: Rental costs for physical offices are a major component.

 

➜ Visa Requirements: Each visa incurs separate processing fees, medical test fees, and Emirates ID fees.

 

➜ External Approvals: Additional permits for regulated activities add to the cost.

 

➜ Share Capital: While not always a minimum requirement for all structures, some may necessitate a certain amount.

 

➜ Business Setup Consultancy Fees: Engaging a reputable consultant will add to your cost but significantly streamline the process and save you time and potential errors.

 

Generally, you can expect the initial setup costs for a Dubai Mainland company to range from AED 30,000* to AED 80,000* (approximately $8,000 to $22,000 USD) or more, depending on the specifics. Annual renewal fees will also apply.

 

Our Expertise: We provide a transparent and detailed breakdown of all expected costs tailored to your specific business, ensuring no hidden surprises.

Mainland Business Setup In UAE – Documents Required

 

Company registration and trade name reservation: Trade name reservation and initial approval from DED.

 

Additional documents (if under 21): Court approval is required to practice business for young entrepreneurs.

 

Entry stamp or UAE visit visa copy (if applicable): If USA nationals are visiting the UAE to start a business.

 

No Objection Certificate (NOC): If already on a residence visa (e.g. employment or dependent) from your current UAE sponsor.

 

Board Resolution: If you are a USA or foreign corporate entity, a board resolution is required to authorise the subscription to the new UAE company.

 

Director Documents: Passport copy of the USA director and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor (if residing in the UAE).

 

Activity-Based Approvals: Some activities require additional approvals from relevant UAE government authorities.

 

Passport and Visa: Passport copy along with UAE visa or residence permit details (mandatory for american nationals already residing in the UAE).

Mainland Company Setup in Dubai Requiring Special Approval

Certain business activities will need to solicit special approval from the authorities for their formation.

Educational Services

Travel & Tourism

Monetary Exchange

Engineering Consultancy

Companies Operating in Trakhees

Healthcare

RTA

Top Business Setup Locations in Dubai Mainland (Ideal for USA Entrepreneurs)

Dubai, the top emirate in the UAE, has advanced infrastructure, business-friendly laws and a booming economy, making it one of the best places in the world for USA investors and startups. Here are the key areas in Dubai Mainland where USA entrepreneurs can consider setting up:

➤ Business Bay: A bustling commercial area with consultancy firms, retail shops and service providers. Ideal for USA professionals to set up a consultancy, IT firm or corporate office.

➤ Sheikh Zayed Road: Dubai’s main highway connects Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah. This prime area has numerous office towers and business hubs, perfect for USA SMEs and corporates.

➤ Jumeirah: A beautiful coastal area divided into Jumeirah 1, 2 and 3. Suitable for setting up beauty salons, clinics or boutique businesses that cater to Dubai’s high-end clientele.

➤ Bur Dubai: A historic and culturally rich area, Bur Dubai is a favourite among US investors. Known for its retail outlets and restaurants, it’s perfect for setting up traditional businesses or hospitality ventures.

➤ Al Qouz: Fast developing and strategically located, Al Qouz is ideal for industrial and warehouse setups. USA exporters and manufacturers find this area business-friendly and cost-effective.

➤ Al Qusais: Known for educational and medical institutions, Al Qusais is perfect for US entrepreneurs in training, the healthcare and education sectors. It also has some light industrial areas for small-scale operations.

 

Don’t let distance or unfamiliar rules stop you from achieving your entrepreneurial dreams in Dubai. With us, your journey to start a business in Dubai Mainland from the USA will be smooth, compliant and successful.

 

Ready to Begin Your Dubai Mainland Business?

 

The opportunities for American businesses are huge. From a booming economy to a global business hub, the benefits of a Mainland setup are obvious.

 

Get in touch with us today for a free Flyingcolour® Business consultation. Let’s talk about your business idea and map out the easiest route for your business setup in the Dubai Mainland from the USA. Your global expansion starts here!

Flyingcolour® provides services for all types of company registrations in the United Arab Emirates – Mainland, Free Zone and Offshore. We help USA entrepreneurs and international investors to set up businesses in all Emirates of UAE. We also assist in opening corporate and personal bank accounts with local banks. With our connections with UAE Government Departments and financial institutions, we ensure a hassle free and compliant process from start to end.