When you plan for mainland company formation in Dubai, the most important thing that you need to do is to get a mainland business license. To carry out business activities that you intend to do without any hassles, you need to choose the right type of mainland business license.

Here is a step-by-step guide to getting a license for business setup in Dubai mainland:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activities

Decide on business activities that you wish to do in Dubai. Before you make a final decision, ensure that those activities are feasible and there is a market for the products or services you wish to offer. Some business activities are restricted by region. So, ensure that your business activity is allowed in Dubai mainland.

Note: NO LOCAL SPONSORSHIP NEEDED FOR COMPANY FORMATION IN THE UAE.

With the effect from December 1, 2020, foreign investors enjoy 100% ownership of companies licensed and registered in the UAE, as per Cabinet Resolution No. 16 of 2020. Previously, foreign investors were allowed to own only 49% ownership in a Limited Liability Company (LLC) that operated as an onshore UAE business. However, this partial ownership law no longer applies to all those companies set up on or after December 1, 2020.

Step 2: Select a Legal Business Structure

Every type of business in Dubai is required to have a legal structure implied by the Dubai Economic Department. Some of the most common business structures include a partnership, sole proprietorship, and limited liability company.

Step 3: Determine a Business Name

Deciding on a business name that can be approved by the authority is also a complex process. There is a long list of rules implied by the DED on what can or cannot be included in a UAE company name.

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval of Paperwork

Once you have your initial paperwork ready (which outlines the business plan, name, structure, and location), you need to apply for initial approval to get started with your business in Dubai right away and simultaneously apply for other certifications required by the DED and other regulatory authorities.

Step 5: Get Permits and Approvals

Some businesses require additional approvals, certifications, and permits from Dubai Municipality, ministries, and other judicial bodies. Your business consultant will also help you obtain additional paperwork that you need to get your company licensed.

Step 6: Rent an Office to Run Your Business

Based on your business activity, you might be required to rent an office workspace in Dubai to get a company license.

Step 7: Get Ejari for the Office

Ejari translates to “My Rent” in Arabic and is an initiative sponsored by the RERA to regulate the leasing and renting sector in Dubai. All businesses that are required to have an office space are also needed to showcase their Ejari to the DED to acquire a business license in Dubai.

Step 8: Make Necessary Payments

The DED and other regulatory authorities charge you different fees for different services you use. Make sure you pay all the fees required for paperwork.

Step 9: Obtain Your Mainland Business License

Once you have all the paperwork ready, including certifications, approvals, and permits, and have made the payment, you can apply for a mainland business license and obtain it.

Did you know EmiraZone can help you get a license for mainland company formation in Dubai within the minimum time possible? We also offer a 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee to all our clients. When you are ready for business set up in Dubai mainland, feel free to get in touch with us.