UAE Mainland Company Formation 2026 | DED Licence Guide for Indians & NRIs
A UAE mainland company gives you unrestricted access to the UAE's domestic market, government contracts, and the ability to operate from any location across the UAE. Since the 2021 Commercial Companies Law reforms, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted in most sectors — making mainland formation far more attractive for Indian entrepreneurs and NRIs. This pillar guide covers everything you need to know.
What is a UAE Mainland Company?
A mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the relevant emirate — Dubai DED, Abu Dhabi DED, Sharjah DED, etc. Unlike Free Zone companies, mainland companies can:
- Trade directly with UAE government entities and local businesses
- Bid for government tenders and contracts
- Operate from any location in the UAE without restriction
- Open branches anywhere in the UAE
- Sponsor unlimited employee visas (subject to office size)
100% Foreign Ownership — 2021 Reform
The UAE's amended Commercial Companies Law (effective June 2021) allows 100% foreign ownership in most commercial and industrial activities. A UAE national (Local Service Agent or Sponsor) is no longer required for most business activities. Exceptions remain for certain strategic sectors including oil & gas, defence, and some professional services.
Types of UAE Mainland Licences
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Commercial Licence: For trading, import/export, retail, and general commerce
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Professional Licence: For service-based businesses — consulting, IT, marketing, accounting, legal (some require UAE national partner)
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Industrial Licence: For manufacturing and production activities
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Tourism Licence: For travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality businesses
Emirate-by-Emirate Comparison
Dubai Mainland (DED Dubai)
- Most prestigious and business-friendly emirate
- Highest setup and office costs
- Best for: Retail, hospitality, professional services, technology
- Licence cost: AED 10,000–25,000 per year
Abu Dhabi Mainland (ADDED)
- Capital emirate — strong for government contracts and oil & gas supply chain
- Lower costs than Dubai for some activities
- Best for: Government suppliers, construction, energy sector
- Licence cost: AED 8,000–20,000 per year
Sharjah Mainland
- Lower cost than Dubai; strong manufacturing base
- Best for: Manufacturing, trading, education
- Licence cost: AED 5,000–15,000 per year
Ajman / RAK / Fujairah Mainland
- Most affordable mainland options
- Best for: Budget-conscious SMEs, manufacturing, trading
- Licence cost: AED 3,000–10,000 per year
UAE Mainland Setup Process
- Determine business activity and confirm 100% ownership eligibility
- Choose emirate and DED authority
- Reserve trade name (must comply with UAE naming guidelines)
- Obtain initial approval from DED
- Lease commercial office space (Ejari registration mandatory)
- Submit MOA (Memorandum of Association) — notarised
- Pay DED licence fees and obtain trade licence
- Register with relevant sector authorities (e.g., Dubai Municipality, KHDA)
- Apply for establishment card and investor visa
- Open corporate bank account
- Register for VAT if turnover exceeds AED 375,000
Office Requirements for Mainland Companies
Unlike Free Zones, UAE mainland companies must have a physical, dedicated office space. Key requirements:
- Minimum office size varies by emirate and activity (typically 200–300 sq ft minimum)
- Ejari (tenancy contract registration) is mandatory
- Office must be in a commercially zoned building
- Virtual offices are not accepted for mainland DED licences
Visa Quota for Mainland Companies
Visa quota is determined by office size: approximately 1 visa per 80–100 sq ft of office space. A 200 sq ft office typically allows 2–3 visas. Larger offices allow proportionally more visas.
Costs Summary (Dubai Mainland, 2026)
- DED trade licence: AED 10,000–25,000/year
- Office rent (200 sq ft, Dubai): AED 20,000–60,000/year
- Investor visa: AED 3,000–5,000 per person
- MOA notarisation: AED 1,000–2,000
- Total first-year cost: AED 35,000–90,000 (approx. ₹8L–20L)
Related Pillar Guides
📋 Important Disclaimer
Educational Content Only: All information on this page is collected from public sources for educational purposes only. Blueberry does not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or timeliness.
No Professional Advice: Nothing on this page constitutes financial, legal, tax, construction, or investment advice. Consult qualified professionals before making any decisions.
Indicative Figures Only: All costs, rates, and estimates are indicative and subject to change without notice. Verify directly with contractors, banks, and relevant authorities.
Our Services: Blueberry provides company formation and export services on demand only. Last Updated: July 2026.