Business Setup in Mainland UAE for Global Business Expansion

By establishing a business in mainland UAE, you can enjoy the flexibility to trade both within the UAE and globally without any restrictions.

A mainland company in the UAE is a business entity that has been licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective Emirate of the UAE it operates in. These companies are established outside the free zones.

The UAE mainland brings vast opportunities for companies looking to have a strong presence in UAE’s thriving economy and business-conducive environment. This is a major benefit that UAE free zone companies are missing out as they can work only within the free zones in UAE and outside UAE.

At Stratrich Consulting, we specialize in providing comprehensive support for mainland company formation, ensuring a smooth and efficient process tailored to your unique business needs.

Mainland Company Formation UAE

Why Consider UAE Mainland Business Setup?

Mainland company setup in the UAE provides a range of advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, the ability to open physical stores and delivery centres, access to local and international markets, and the ability to bid on government contracts.

Mainland company formation in the UAE is an attractive option for entrepreneurs aiming to establish and grow a successful business in a dynamic economy.

  • Trade without agents and distributors
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Access to local and International markets
  • Participate in UAE and GCC government contracts
  • No restrictions on office locations
  • Expand and diversify with ease
  • Trade in a low tax environment
  • Set up anywhere in the UAE mainland

Top Recommended Business Activities
for UAE Mainland Companies


Imports and Exports

Product Distribution

Foreign Company Representation

Manufacturing

Consulting

Architectural & Design Services

Software Development & IT Support

Hotels & Accommodation

Restaurants & Cafes

Healthcare

Real Estate

Media & Advertising

Financial Services

Educational Services

Wholesale & Retail

Establish your Business anywhere in the UAE Mainland

The experts at Stratrich will assist you in selecting and setting up your business in the most lucrative emirate mainland.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is divided into seven emirates, with each emirate having both mainland and free zone areas.
Here are some of the key mainland locations in UAE that you can choose for setting up your business:


Sharjah Mainland

Sharjah offers a prime location, easy access to infrastructure, and a diversified range of economic opportunities...

Sharjah Mainland
Fujairah Mainland

Due to its coastal location, Fujairah is a key centre for trade and maritime activity. Businesses gain better access to global markets...

Fujairah Mainland
Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain is ideal for investors seeking lower operational costs and simplified business operations in a growing environment...

Umm Al Quwain Mainland
Abu dhabi Mainland

The largest emirate and UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi blends finance, innovation, government support, and a diverse economy for businesses...

Abu Dhabi Mainland
RAKEZ Mainland

RAK Mainland offers investor-friendly access, economic stability, and a prime location for manufacturing and trade with reduced shipping time...

RAK Mainland
Ajman Mainland

Ajman attracts small and medium-sized businesses with its strategic location, affordable environment, and simple setup process...

Ajman Mainland
Dubai Mainland

Dubai is UAE’s business hub, known for cutting-edge infrastructure, a cosmopolitan setup, and a highly diversified economy...

Dubai Mainland

How Stratrich can Enhance your Mainland Company Setup

  • Expert Knowledge of UAE Regulations - Stratrich Consulting has deep expertise in UAE’s mainland company laws and regulations, ensuring quicker license approvals and compliant business from day one.
  • Tailored Solutions - We offer customised business setup packages to suit your business goals and industry needs.
  • End-to-End Support - Our team provides 360° support - from incorporation to post-setup assistance – to ensure smooth offshore operations.
  • Local Presence - Our strong connections with local UAE authorities offer valuable insights and ensure faster approvals, enabling you to navigate Dubai’s business landscape with ease.
  • Proven Track Record - Our successful track record in company formation makes us a trusted partner for businesses looking to expand into UAE’s lucrative market.

Set up your Dream Business in Mainland UAE with Stratrich

We provide comprehensive services for mainland business setup in all the seven emirates. Our team of experts will assist you with all aspects of mainland company formation, including registration, licensing, obtaining visas and opening bank accounts to ensure that you have a hassle-free experience.

  • Company formation in 1-2 business days (Quick approval procedures)
  • Easy Bank Account Setup
  • Minimal Paperwork
  • 100% Foreign Ownership*
  • UAE Investor Visa

*100% foreign ownership in UAE mainland is permitted for almost all business activities except sectors like Defence, and Banking & Insurance.

Steps for Mainland Company Formation in UAE

By partnering with Stratrich, you ensure a hassle-free, efficient, and compliant mainland company setup in the UAE, allowing you to focus on your business while we manage the regulatory complexities. By following the steps below, we ensure a smooth and efficient process for setting up your mainland company in the UAE — from initial approvals to final license issuance.

Book a Free Consultation
1
Consultation and Business Activity Selection

Our process initiates with a detailed consultation to understand your business goals. UAE mainland businesses can only operate under specific licensed activities. We help you select the most suitable business activity for your mainland setup.

2
Legal Structure Guidance

We provide personalized advice to choose the best legal structure — whether it's an LLC, branch office, or other — based on your ownership model and long-term growth objectives.

3
License Application Submission

We handle the end-to-end submission of your application and documents to UAE authorities like DED, ADDED, or SEDD. Once approved, we collect your business license, legally enabling you to operate in the UAE.

4
Bank Account Setup Assistance

We facilitate opening of your corporate bank account with trusted banking partners, ensuring your company’s financial operations are secure and compliant from day one.

5
Visa Applications

We provide full support for investor, employee, and dependent visas — making the residency process streamlined and stress-free for your entire team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The annual license fees in UAE start from AED 10,000 and can vary based on the Emirate, the type of license, and the number of activities.

It typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to set up a mainland company, depending on business type, approvals, and documentation.

No. Due to a recent change in the law, non-GCC entrepreneurs no longer require a local sponsor to start a UAE mainland business. However, certain sectors like oil and gas may still require it.

Yes, a mainland company can operate freely across the UAE and conduct both local and international business.

There is generally no minimum capital requirement for most mainland company formations in UAE unless specified for certain licensed activities.

Renewal costs typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the business activity, office space, and regulatory conditions.

Yes, a physical office or business address is mandatory for mainland company registration. However, UAE also offers the option of a "virtual ejari" for foreign investors to register without renting a physical space immediately.

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