Start your Mainland company in Dubai

Dubai Mainland Company: a world of entrepreneurial opportunities with access to the regional market

A Mainland company is a company registered in the mainland (outside of special free trade zones) of the UAE and has direct, unrestricted access to the local market. Unlike Freezone or Offshore companies, which may have certain restrictions, a Mainland company offers unrestricted business within the UAE and allows close interaction with the domestic market.

One of the main advantages of a Mainland company in Dubai is its ability to directly target local customers and markets. These companies can operate in a wide range of business activities without being limited to specific industries or sectors. Mainland companies often have a higher reputation and trust among local clients and business partners as they are directly registered in the UAE.

The possibility to participate in public tenders and government projects is another advantage of Mainland companies. This opens up additional business opportunities for companies operating in various sectors, such as construction, services, trade and more.

Mainland companies also offer greater flexibility in terms of labour recruitment. These companies can hire employees directly and have access to a wider pool of workers, which is beneficial for companies with extensive staffing needs.

Although Mainland companies may be subject to higher tax requirements than Freezone or Offshore companies, they still offer an attractive opportunity to gain a foothold in the local market, engage in the UAE economy and build local business partnerships.

The choice of a Mainland company formation in Dubai depends on the company's business objectives and strategic direction. This legal form is ideal for companies that want to focus on the local market, pursue local projects and operate in a wide range of business areas.

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Advantages of a Mainland company formation

Setting up a Mainland company in Dubai offers a variety of benefits for companies that have a strong focus on the local market and doing business within the UAE.

Access to the local market: A Mainland company has unrestricted access to the domestic market in the UAE. This is particularly beneficial for companies that mainly want to serve customers within the UAE.
Tax benefits: Although Mainland companies in Dubai are subject to VAT and, since June 2023, also to a corporate income tax of 9% on annual net profits above AED 375,000, the tax burden still remains significantly lower compared to European countries, the US and other regions.
Access to Public Projects: Mainland companies have the opportunity to participate in public tenders and government projects, which can provide additional business opportunities.
Flexibility in business activities: Mainland companies can operate in various business fields without the restrictions that may apply to companies in Freezones, for example. This allows for a wide range of business opportunities.
Facilitate access to labour: Mainland Companies can hire locally based workers and foreign workers without restrictions. This is a huge advantage for companies with large labour requirements.
Unlimited visa rights: Mainland Companies can theoretically apply for an unlimited number of employee residence visas. However, the maximum number of visas usually depends on the size of the company.
Free choice for branch locations: Mainland companies have the freedom to choose their place of establishment within the entire country. Unlike Freezone companies, which must be located in the specific free trade zone, Mainland company incorporation offers greater flexibility in choosing a place of business.
Increased reputation & confidence: Mainland companies often have a higher reputation and trust among local customers and business partners because they are directly registered domestically.

Mainland UAE Resident Visa Option

A Mainland company entitles the shareholders and management of the company to obtain UAE Residence Visas. In addition, Mainland companies can theoretically apply for an unlimited number of employee residence visas. However, the maximum number of visas usually depends on the size of the company.

Residence visas are usually issued with a validity period of three years and can be extended indefinitely if the company continues to operate.

Establishing your company in Dubai / the UAE

Minimises your tax burden at company level

Obtaining your UAE Residence Visa

Minimises your tax burden at private level

Opening your UAE Personal & Business Accounts

Asset protection & asset management

A residence visa is the basis for your tax-free residency and subsequently also opens up the possibility of opening both private and business accounts with reputable UAE banks.

By establishing a Mainland company, you take the first strategic step towards your tax exemption.

The main features of a Mainland company

100% Property (as a rule)

Meanwhile, Mainland companies can also be 100% foreign-owned. Only some very specific business activities still require a local Emirati partner or sponsor holding a significant stake in the company.

9% Corporate income tax, 5% VAT.

Mainland Companies are subject to corporate tax of 9%, but only on profits earned domestically locally in the UAE and only on profits exceeding AED 375,000. 5% VAT is levied on goods & services supplied in the local UAE market.

Option for unlimited UAE Residence Visa

Mainland Companies can theoretically apply for an unlimited number of employee residence visas. However, the maximum number of visas usually depends on the size of the company.

Unrestricted profit repatriation (after tax)

Mainland Companies can repatriate capital and profits (after tax) at 100% and without any restrictions to their home country or to another country abroad.

Unrestricted foreign business

Mainland companies have unrestricted access to international markets.

Unrestricted domestic business

Mainland companies have unlimited access to the UAE local market, including the government and private sectors, without the need for intermediaries.

Permanent establishment required

Mainland Companies must have a physical presence within the UAE.

Free choice of location throughout the UAE

Mainland companies have the opportunity to establish themselves anywhere in the UAE.

Presence required for foundation

For Mainland companies, it is usually required that at least one shareholder or legal representative is present for the incorporation in Dubai or the UAE. This person may need to visit government offices, attend meetings and comply with other legal and administrative requirements related to the incorporation of the company.

Problem-free account opening

Mainland companies can open a company account in the UAE with relative ease. With the right support, this normally arduous process can be straightforward and smooth.