Mainland Company Setup
Register under the UAE Department of Economic Development (DED) and operate anywhere in the UAE.
98% Compliance Success • 95% Retention Rate
Mainland Setup — The Trade-Offs
A concise look at the main legal and financial advantages and the necessary trade-offs you should expect when choosing a Mainland company setup in the UAE.
⚖️ Legal Advantages
Key legal benefits you gain
CORE
Operating Benefits
100% foreign ownership (in most activities as per new UAE laws).
No restriction on business location – operate anywhere in UAE.
Eligible to bid for government contracts.
Ability to open multiple branches across the UAE.
Access to unlimited visa quotas (depending on office size).
💰 Financial Advantages
How Mainland helps your bottom line
VALUE
Monetary Benefits
Freedom to trade directly with local and international markets.
Easier access to UAE banks and financial services.
No currency restrictions.
Flexible tax regime with 0% personal income tax.
⚠️ Disadvantages
Trade-offs to consider before setup
CAUTION
Legal & Admin Trade-offs
Requires office space in the UAE.
More government approvals compared to Free Zone or Offshore setups.
Must comply with UAE Labor and Immigration laws directly.
Financial Trade-offs
Slightly higher setup and operational costs (rent, utilities, etc.).
Annual audit and compliance requirements may apply depending on business type.
Strategic Business Structuring
The Unmatched Mainland Advantage
Position your enterprise for unlimited growth, compliance, and credibility by choosing the full market access of a UAE Mainland establishment.
Full Access to the UAE Market
Mainland companies can trade and offer services anywhere in the UAE without restrictions. Unlike Free Zone or Offshore entities, they can directly deal with local clients and bid for government contracts.
100% Foreign Ownership
Under the latest UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can own 100% of their mainland business in most sectors—no local sponsor required.
No Geographic Restrictions
Freedom to establish multiple branches across the UAE and operate from any location (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.).
Wide Range of Business Activities
Mainland licenses cover thousands of commercial, industrial, and professional activities approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Ability to Work with Government Entities
Only Mainland companies are eligible to apply for and execute government tenders and projects, which can be highly profitable and prestigious.
Unlimited Visa Quota
Depending on your office space, you can apply for as many employment visas as needed—ideal for expanding teams.
Strong Market Credibility
Mainland companies are viewed as established, trustworthy, and compliant entities—building confidence with clients, banks, and partners.
Easy Business Expansion
Mainland structures make it simple to add new business activities or partners, or expand operations across the UAE and abroad.
Access to UAE Banking & Financial Services
Mainland licenses are recognized by all major UAE banks, simplifying corporate bank account opening and financial management.
Favorable Tax Structure
No personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates, ensuring an investor-friendly business environment.
Jurisdiction
Licensing
Visas
Banking
Compliance
Documentation
Registration
Tax
Strategy
Why ChooseAIM Business Consultants
Serving founders & businesses with clear, practical immigration & company formation pathways.