The UAE mainland offers businesses the ability to operate without restrictions across the entire country, making it an ideal choice for companies that want full market access. Unlike freezones, mainland companies can trade directly with local businesses and consumers, take on government contracts, and expand without geographic limitations. Recent regulatory changes have also made it possible for foreign investors to own 100 percent of their mainland company in most industries, removing the previous requirement for a local Emirati sponsor.
Our Mainland experts 🚀
Getting you
moving
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), “mainland” refers to the area that falls under the direct jurisdiction of the UAE government and its Department of Economic Development (DED), rather than being part of a free zone or offshore jurisdiction.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates, each considered a jurisdiction with its own local government, laws, and regulatory bodies. These jurisdictions operate under the federal government, but also have some autonomy, especially in economic and commercial matters.
Mainland in other words is an onshore business zone, where you can operate anywhere in the UAE without restrictions, unlike free zones which have limited scope. Each mainland business must be licensed by the Department of Economic Development in the emirate where it’s established.
A mainland license is issued by the Department of Economic Development in the respective emirate, allowing businesses to engage in a wide range of commercial, industrial, and professional activities. This structure is particularly suited for businesses that require direct trade with the local market, want to scale across multiple emirates, or need a physical presence in the UAE.
Mainland companies have the flexibility to operate anywhere within the UAE, unlike freezone businesses that are restricted to operating within their designated zones. This makes mainland registration a preferred choice for companies that aim to work with the UAE government, secure contracts with local businesses, or expand without restrictions.
Mainland registration provides businesses with flexibility, market access, and growth opportunities. Companies benefit from:
Unlike freezones, mainland companies are subject to a nine percent corporate tax on profits exceeding 375,000 AED, but they have no tax exemptions on local revenue.
A mainland company is well suited for businesses that require full market access and flexibility. It is particularly suitable for:
Setting up a mainland company incorrectly can result in unnecessary expenses, legal complications, and business restrictions. Some of the common challenges businesses face when making the wrong choices include:
✔️ Higher costs due to choosing the wrong business activity or office location, leading to additional licensing and relocation fees
✔️ Regulatory non-compliance, which can result in fines or operational restrictions
✔️ Banking difficulties if the company structure is not aligned with UAE financial regulations
✔️ Complicated restructuring processes if the company needs to change its legal structure, business activities, or location
✔️ Delays in hiring staff due to visa quota limitations based on office space requirements
Many entrepreneurs realize too late that their mainland setup affects taxation, licensing flexibility, and market reach. Making the right choice from the start prevents costly mistakes and ensures a smooth business operation.
With our experience in business formation, we ensure a seamless process for mainland registration, licensing, and visa approvals. From choosing the right legal structure to handling compliance and operational requirements, we provide full support to help businesses establish themselves successfully in the UAE. Our expertise allows companies to focus on growth while we take care of the setup process efficiently and professionally.
Choosing the right mainland setup depends on your business activity, market goals, and licensing requirements. Contact us for a free consultation to determine the best option for your business and ensure a smooth setup process.
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.
I consent to Emifast collecting my detail: name, phone number, email for contacting me. I agree with emifast’s Terms and Condition and privacy policy by submitting the form
