Key Steps to Establishing a Mainland Company in Dubai, UAE
                     Key Steps to Establishing a 
Mainland Company in 
Dubai
An Overview
Embarking on the journey of establishing a mainland 
company in Dubai, UAE is an exciting venture that holds 
vast opportunities. However, it also demands meticulous 
planning and execution to navigate through the 
intricacies of the process. 
Before diving into the process, it's crucial to grasp the 
concept of mainland company formation in Dubai, UAE. 
Unlike free zones, mainland companies allow for greater 
flexibility in business operations and wider market 
access within the UAE. 
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Here are the key steps to 
establishing a mainland company 
in Dubai, UAE:
▰ Choose Your Business Activity
▰ Partnering Requirements
▰ Legal Structure Selection
▰ Reserve Your Trade Name
▰ Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Choose Your Business Activity
Identifying the nature of your business activity is the 
foundational step. Business activity is divided into different 
sectors by the Department of Economic Development (DED) 
of the United Arab Emirates. Ensure alignment between your 
chosen activity and the corresponding license. 
Partnering Requirements
In mainland company formation, having a local sponsor or 
partner is mandatory. This partner holds at least 51% 
ownership in the company. Choosing the right local partner is 
paramount as they'll be integral to your business journey. 
Legal Structure Selection
Choosing the right legal structure is essential to the success 
of your company. A limited liability company (LLC), 
partnership, or sole proprietorship are available options. An 
LLC is the most common choice due to its flexibility and 
limited liability for shareholders. 
Reserve Your Trade Name
The next step involves registering and reserving your trade 
name with the DED. A unique and relevant trade name is 
imperative as it represents your brand identity in the market. 
Obtain Necessary Licenses and 
Permits
Acquire the requisite licenses and permits from the relevant 
authorities. These may vary depending on your business 
activity and industry sector. For operations to run smoothly, 
regulatory regulations must be followed. 
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