Your Ultimate Guide to Setting Up a Mainland Business in the UAE (Dubai, Ajman & Beyond)

 Thinking of launching your dream business in the UAE mainland? Whether it's the bustling streets of Dubai or the growing commercial hubs like Ajman, mainland company formation can open doors to limitless opportunities.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from legal steps to strategic advantages — to start your business in mainland UAE with confidence.


🌍 Why Mainland UAE? Here’s the Big Picture

The mainland business setup in UAE gives you unrestricted access to the local and international markets. Unlike free zones, mainland companies can freely trade within the UAE and bid for government contracts.

✅ What Makes It So Attractive?

  • 100% Foreign Ownership (in most sectors)

  • No trade barriers within the UAE

  • Flexible office locations

  • Access to government and private sector clients

  • Ability to sponsor unlimited visas (based on office size)

🗺️ Where Should You Set Up? Dubai vs Ajman Mainland

Let’s break down the most popular choices for business setup in mainland UAE:

📌 Dubai Mainland

Dubai offers a modern infrastructure, global connectivity, and a highly professional business environment. Perfect for:

  • Tech startups

  • International trading

  • Real estate & tourism businesses

📌 Ajman Mainland

Ajman is emerging as a cost-effective choice. It’s perfect for:

  • Budget-conscious startups

  • SMEs and family-run businesses

  • Logistics and industrial services

💡 Tip: While Ajman is cheaper, Dubai gives you better networking and faster scalability.

🚀 Step-by-Step: How to Start a Business in UAE Mainland

Here’s your simplified roadmap to starting your mainland business setup:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Pick your activity wisely — it affects licensing, location, and partners. There are over 2,000+ approved activities in UAE mainland.

Step 2: Pick a Legal Structure

The most common types:

  • LLC (Limited Liability Company)

  • Sole Establishment

  • Branch Office (for foreign companies)

🛠️ Need help? WayzAdvisory can guide you in choosing the right structure for your goals.

Step 3: Register Your Trade Name

Your trade name must:

  • Reflect your business activity

  • Be unique and not offensive

  • Avoid religious or political references

You can reserve your trade name online through the DED (Dubai Economic Department) or Ajman DED portals.

Step 4: Get Initial Approval

This is a green light from the authorities saying, "You’re good to proceed."

Documents required:

  • Passport copies of owners

  • Proposed business plan

  • Trade name certificate

Step 5: Draft & Notarize MOA (Memorandum of Association)

For LLCs, the MOA outlines ownership shares and partner responsibilities. You’ll notarize it through UAE courts.

Step 6: Choose Office Space

Mainland companies need a physical office. You can choose:

  • Flexi-desks (for startups)

  • Shared offices

  • Full commercial units

Office space affects the number of visas you can sponsor.

Step 7: Final License Issuance

Once everything is submitted, your license will be issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Congratulations, you're officially in business!

💸 Cost of Setting Up a Business in Mainland UAE

Mainland JurisdictionStarting Cost (AED)Office Requirement
Dubai15,000 – 30,000+Mandatory
Ajman9,000 – 20,000+Mandatory

Note: These are estimates. Costs vary based on activity, visas, and office space.

⚖️ Mainland vs Free Zone — Quick Comparison

FactorMainlandFree Zone
Trade in UAE✅ Allowed❌ Only inside free zone or exports
Government Projects✅ Yes❌ No
Office Flexibility✅ Anywhere in UAE❌ Within free zone only
Ownership✅ 100% (mostly)✅ 100%

📞 Need Help? Let Experts Handle It

Setting up a business in the UAE mainland can feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to the process. That's why working with a trusted consultant like WayzAdvisory can save you time, money, and avoid costly mistakes.

From licensing and visa processing to legal documentation, they handle everything — so you can focus on growing your business.

🔚 Final Thoughts

The UAE mainland remains one of the most attractive places to build your business — thanks to its open economy, low taxes, and ease of doing business.

Whether you're eyeing business setup in Dubai mainland for exposure, or want a business setup in Ajman mainland for affordability, this step-by-step guide has you covered.

Ready to get started? Reach out to WayzAdvisory and make your UAE business dream a reality!

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