What is a Mainland Company?
A mainland company is an onshore company licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai which is allowed to do business in the local market as well as outside UAE without any restriction. When it comes to company formation in Dubai, Mainland is the most popular and pragmatic choice as it has the maximum benefits that the country has to offer in setting up businesses. However, there are certain regulations that one has to follow in the process, one being 51% ownership of the company by a local national except for the following cases:
- Business activities that permit 100% Foreign Ownership
- Businesses located in Free Zones
- Partnerships between GCC companies and UAE National
- Business activities that permit 100% Local Ownership
The type of license will determine if one needs a local partner (Commercial and Industrial license) or a Local Service Agent (Professional License). Professional license is required when an individual or a group individuals provide their expert service, and the business is 100% owned by the expatriate. The local service agent act as representative in administrative dealings with government departments. The local service agent does not hold a stake in the business and is instead paid an annual fee for their service.
Creative Zone helps you in obtaining a trusted Business Partner or a Local Service Agent as per your business needs
Why choose Mainland Dubai
- Central Presence in the UAE Market
Complete access and freedom to trade within and outside the UAE. An advantage available only to the companies located in the Mainland, opening plenty of opportunities
- Conducive Business Environment
World-Class trade centers, high-tech infrastructure and a cohesive communication network. The Mainland region has the best infrastructure to support your budding and an already thriving business.
- Tax Incentives
0% Corporate Tax remains the no 1 puller of entrepreneurs and investors in choosing UAE as their playground.
- Avoidance of Double Taxation
The UAE provides the flexibility to the business owners to enter into double taxation agreement for import-export processes, which allows them to wipe out the tax to be paid on both the sides
- Easy Business Setup Process
When it comes to business set up process, Dubai Mainland provides an easy way to initiate and complete the process. Business owners prefer to engage with professional business consultants regarding the same that helps to complete the task done at a faster pace.
Business Entities in Dubai Mainland
Dubai provides a range of business entities to the investors that can be incorporated easily.
Branch of Foreign Office
Dubai provides opportunities to investors who have been looking for a platform to grow their business. If you are looking for a platform to expand, then you can choose Dubai Mainland to incorporate your branch office.
Professional Firms
Also referred to as civil companies, they are dedicated to a specific profession to carry out the professional practice related to their domain. Unlike an LLC, professional firms have got no restriction of the 51% of shareholding.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most common form of business in UAE. A Limited Liability Company can be formed by a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 50 shareholders whose liability is limited to their shares in the business capital.
Representative Office
The UAE allows foreign investors to set up a representative office without the presence of any shareholder. A representative office doesn’t get involved in the business operational activities and is more inclined towards research and promotion of marketing activities.
Public Shareholding Companies
Companies performing public shareholding, financial and banking, insurance activities are referred to as public shareholding companies. The minimum capital requirement for the establishment process is US$2.725 million and is suitable for larger projects. If you are planning to set up a Public Share Holding Company.
