Are you looking for the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and overseas, but unsure if a Dubai mainland company is the right choice for you?
At Business Codes, we offer you the opportunity to choose from a wide range of business activities and help you determine if a Dubai mainland company is the right fit for your business needs.
With a mainland company, you have the flexibility to trade within the UAE and internationally without any restrictions. You can choose from various business activities, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your business.
Don’t let the fear of making the wrong choice hold you back. Contact Business Codes today, and let us help you choose the right business activity and decide if a Dubai mainland company is the perfect fit for your business needs. Enjoy the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and beyond.

Mainland Benefits
These benefits make mainland company formation in Dubai an attractive option for businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE and expand their operations within the local and international markets.
Mainland Business Setup Steps
- 1
Choose a business activity: Determine the type of business activity you want to conduct in Dubai and ensure that it is permitted in the UAE.
- 2
Choose a business name: Select a unique and appropriate name for your business that adheres to the naming conventions set by the Dubai Economic Department (DED).
- 3
Find a local services agent: Non-UAE nationals who wish to establish a business in Dubai with a professional license, such as Civil Companies and Sole Establishments, must find a local services agent, even if the foreign investor holds 100% ownership. A local services agent can act as a facilitator for foreign-owned companies, helping them navigate the legal and regulatory requirements for establishing and operating their businesses in the city.
- 4
Reserve a trade name: You must reserve the trade name for your business with the DED. This step can be done online through the DED website.
- 5
Obtain initial approval: Obtain initial approval from the DED by submitting your business plan and other required documents. This will enable you to obtain the necessary licenses and approvals for your business.
- 6
Rent a physical office: You must rent an office space in Dubai to set up your business. The office must meet certain requirements, such as being in a commercial building and having a specific size.
- 7
Obtain licenses and permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses and permits from various government agencies in Dubai.
- 8
Register for taxes: You must register for taxes with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to comply with UAE tax regulations.
- 9
Hire employees: If you plan to hire employees, you must apply for a labor card and work permit for each employee.
- 10
Open a bank account: Open a corporate bank account in Dubai to conduct your business operations.
- 11
Register with the Chamber of Commerce: Register your business with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry to gain access to business support services and networking opportunities.
- 12
Obtain visas: Obtain visas for yourself and your employees to live and work in Dubai.
Changing from a free zone to a mainland company in Dubai
Changing from a free zone to a mainland company formation in Dubai can be a complicated process, involving various legal requirements that can be challenging to navigate on your own.
Without expert guidance and support, you may face delays, additional costs, and legal complications that could negatively impact your business operations and profitability.
Business Codes can assist you every step of the way, providing you with expert advice and guidance on the switching process. They can assist you in registering your new mainland company, canceling the license and visas of your free zone company, opening a new bank account, and fulfilling all legal procedures. By partnering with Business Codes, you can simplify the process, avoid potential pitfalls, and ensure a successful transition for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trade License Types for Mainland Business in Dubai
Starting a business in the UAE, including Mainland Dubai and free zones, requires obtaining a trade license for legal validation. This crucial step ensures your business is legitimate and compliant with local laws.
Securing the right trade license is vital for your company’s long-term success, with factors like business activities, company structure, and jurisdiction affecting the choice. Carefully evaluate the three trade license types during the company formation process to find the best fit for your business. But what are these trade license types, and which one will unlock your business’s true potential? Stay tuned to discover!
