Abu Dhabi mainland offers businesses a strong foundation in one of the fastest-growing economic centers in the Middle East. As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi provides a stable and business-friendly environment with access to government contracts, corporate partnerships, and international markets. Companies registered under Abu Dhabi mainland can operate freely across the UAE and beyond, without the restrictions associated with freezones.
A mainland license in Abu Dhabi is issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development. Recent regulatory changes now allow full foreign ownership in most sectors, eliminating the need for a local Emirati partner in many industries. This has made Abu Dhabi an even more attractive destination for entrepreneurs and international companies looking to establish a presence in the UAE.
As an official partner, we assist businesses in navigating the entire registration process, from selecting the right business structure to obtaining the necessary licenses and visas. Our expertise ensures that companies can establish operations efficiently while remaining fully compliant with local regulations.
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Abu Dhabi mainland offers businesses access to key industries, government projects, and a growing economy. Companies benefit from:
✔️ Full access to the UAE market without trade restrictions
✔️ The ability to bid on government contracts and work with public sector entities
✔️ No restrictions on office location, allowing businesses to operate anywhere in Abu Dhabi
✔️ A stable economy backed by strong infrastructure and energy investments
✔️ Licensing costs starting from approximately 13,000 AED, with additional costs depending on business activity and office space requirements
Mainland businesses are subject to a 9 percent corporate tax on annual profits exceeding 375,000 AED, in line with UAE corporate tax regulations. There are no additional taxes on revenue or personal income.
Abu Dhabi mainland is well suited for businesses that require direct access to the local market, government partnerships, or large-scale projects. It is particularly suitable for:
Abu Dhabi is not just the capital of the UAE—it’s a global center for innovation, stability, and investment. Establishing a Mainland company in Abu Dhabi gives businesses access to UAE-wide trade, government contracts, and high-growth sectors, including finance, energy, healthcare, and technology.
With 100% foreign ownership now permitted in many industries, entrepreneurs can benefit from a tax-efficient structure, government incentives, and Abu Dhabi’s pro-business regulatory environment.
Abu Dhabi Mainland offers businesses stability, long-term growth, and direct access to government contracts, making it a top choice for companies looking to expand in the UAE and beyond.
✔️ 100% Foreign Ownership – Available in most industries without the need for a local sponsor
✔️ Low Business Costs – Lower operational expenses compared to Dubai Mainland
✔️ Government Incentives & Support – Abu Dhabi offers subsidies, grants, and tax incentives for key industries
✔️ Access to UAE & Global Markets – No trade restrictions within the UAE or internationally
✔️ Ideal for Government Tenders – Mainland companies can bid on large-scale government contracts
✔️ Pro-Business Regulatory Environment – Abu Dhabi is known for its efficient licensing, transparent legal framework, and investor protection
Note: Prices may vary depending on business activity and additional services required.
Each industry falls under a specific category regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). Choosing the right activity is crucial for compliance and smooth operations.
Depending on your needs, you can register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or a Branch of a Foreign Company.
Your company’s trade name must comply with UAE naming regulations and be unique to avoid rejection.
Before proceeding with full registration, initial approval is required from DED to ensure your business meets the regulatory requirements.
Drafting documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement (if required) is mandatory.
Mainland companies must have a physical office space—whether a shared facility, dedicated office, or warehouse.
Certain industries, like healthcare, finance, or construction, require specialized approvals from relevant authorities.
Submit all required documents and pay the licensing fees to officially obtain your Dubai Mainland business license
Once your company is licensed, apply for corporate banking solutions and secure residency visas for yourself and employees.
With direct access to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), we handle the entire setup process, including:
At the heart of our process lies a simple yet crucial step, conversation. It’s where your aspirations meet our expertise, where your unique circumstances pave the way for strategic safeguarding.