Mainland companies

Companies established on the UAE “mainland” - those outside a free zone - are free to operate across a range of sectors. They can also trade with companies and individuals within Dubai and the UAE, as well as internationally.

The best part is that you can retain 100% foreign ownership of most types of mainland companies, across most activities. However, do bear in mind that some companies may require an Emirati partner.

If you’re ready to begin this journey, here are the essential steps to set up your mainland company:

In addition to these options, you can take advantage of the opportunity for 100% foreign ownership in more than 1,000 commercial and industrial activities. (Some exclusions apply to economic activities with strategic significance: explore the list of activities ineligible for 100% foreign ownership.)

You can find a full searchable list of licensable activities on the IID Portal.

Once you've chosen your preferred licence you can apply online, or through service centres across Dubai.

You can retain 100% foreign ownership with the following legal forms:

• General Partnership (2-50 Partners)
• Limited Partnership (2-50 Partners)
• Limited Liability Company (Single Ownership / 2-50 Partners)
• Private Joint Stock Company (2-50 Partners)

For more information on all legal forms, download the Al Wajeez guide.

Most business activities do allow for 100% foreign ownership, but there are certain strategic sectors and activities where it is not permitted. In these cases, if you want to set up a business performing one or more of these activities, you will need to work with an Emirati partner.

Before you begin setting up your company, you should make sure your proposed activities do not require any specific approvals – or if they do, ensure you will be able to obtain these approvals, and comply with any conditions they require.

If you’re new to Dubai, ensure you have a tourist/visit visa – if you don't have a valid entry visa, you won't be able to set up a business.

Then, all new businesses require the following documents for initial approval: 

• Copy of the licensee’s passport (if a foreigner) or Emirates ID (if Emirati/Resident)
• Copy of the applicant’s residence permit/visa (for non-GCC nationals)
• The company’s articles of association (not applicable for a one-person limited liability company)

For public shareholding companies and private joint-stock companies, you will also require:

• A feasibility study of the project

Branches of companies based in other emirates also require:

• The parent company’s board resolution to open a branch in Dubai
• A letter of authorisation from the managing director
• A copy of the parent company’s commercial registration certificate
• A copy of the parent company’s memorandum of association (MoA)

Branches of foreign or free zone companies also require:

• A copy of the parent company’s licence 

The documents of the parent company should be attested and legalised with the UAE Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin, and counter attested with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE. The documents also need to be legally translated in Arabic and attested by the Ministry of Justice in the UAE.