Octagon

Complete Guide to Setting Up a Company in UAE Mainland (2024)

Looking to establish a business in Dubai's mainland? The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) offers a strategic pathway for entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the UAE's dynamic market. This comprehensive guide walks you through every crucial step of the mainland company setup process.

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Understanding Dubai Mainland Business Setup

Dubai mainland companies operate under the Department of Economic Development (DED) jurisdiction, offering unique advantages for businesses seeking to operate throughout the UAE without free zone restrictions.

Key Benefits of Mainland Companies

We work hard every day to make life of our clients better and happier

Ability to conduct business anywhere in the UAE
No restrictions on business activities
Direct access to the local market
Freedom to take government contracts
Strategic locations near ports and airports

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Choosing Your Legal Structure

Select from these business structures

Limited Liability Company (LLC)
One-Person Company
Professional Company
Industrial Company

Each structure has specific requirements and implications for ownership, liability, and operations.

2. Trade Name Selection

Important considerations

Provide three name options for verification
Names must be unique in the UAE
Follow UAE naming conventions
Avoid restricted or offensive terms
Name should reflect business activity

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3. Selecting Business Activities

Your choice affects

License requirements
Location requirements
Cost structure
External approvals needed
Whether physical premises are required

4. Shareholder Structure

Key considerations

Number of shareholders
Distribution of shares
Capital requirements
Visa implications
Additional fees per shareholder

5. Documentation Requirements

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6. Capital Requirements

Capital considerations

Minimum capital requirements vary by activity
DED fees calculated based on capital amount
Maximum fee cap of AED 15,000 for large capital amounts
Capital division among shareholders

Cost Structure

Initial Setup Fees (2024 rates)

Standard fee

Trade license fees
Initial approval fees
Name reservation

Additional shareholder fees

AED 1,000 per shareholder

Investor visa fees

AED 3,600 per person

Additional Costs to Consider

Office rent and Ejari
External approvals
Visa processing
Labor cards
Establishment cards

7. Legal Requirements

What our customers say

James Wilson

Technology Solutions Provider from London, UK

As a seasoned UK business owner, I approached UAE relocation with significant skepticism. However, Octagon's meticulous handling of my company setup in Dubai South Freezone completely transformed my perspective. Their team provided crystal-clear guidance on everything from tax implications to banking solutions, while even assisting with my family's relocation needs. Six months later, my company's operating costs have decreased dramatically, we've expanded into new Asian and Middle Eastern markets, and I couldn't be happier with my decision to relocate.
Michael Rodriguez

International Trade Consultant from Boston, USA

Seeking a tax-efficient base for my international consulting business, I found exactly what I needed with Octagon's DMCC Freezone setup services. Their team expertly guided me through license selection, banking setup (notably challenging for US citizens), and tax compliance across both UAE and US jurisdictions. Their post-setup support has been invaluable, with their legal team's international contract expertise and banking relationships proving crucial to my business's 40% growth in the first year.
Lisa Schmidt

Web Development Professional from Munich, Germany

Moving my freelance web development business to Dubai Internet City Freezone through Octagon was the best decision for my career. Their deep understanding of digital businesses helped me structure my company perfectly for both service-based income and future SaaS products. With their fixed-fee structure, transparent timeline, and invaluable networking introductions, I've grown from a solo developer to leading a team of six, serving European clients while enjoying significant tax advantages and an excellent quality of life in Dubai.

Post-Setup Considerations

1. Immigration Requirements
- Investor visa processing
- Family sponsorship
- Employee sponsorship
- Labor file establishment
2. Banking Setup
- Physical office space
- Trade license
- Shareholding documentation
- Bank signatory presence
3. Labor and Employment
- Ministry of Labor registration
- Office space inspection
- Employee visa quotas
- Workforce planning

A team of experts is the company's core value

Andrei Marcenco

Founder, CEO

Maxim Dulenko

Head of Corporate Services

Vladislav Bobylev

Head of Customer Relations

Pull to the side

Mohannad Ibragim Shreef

Public Relations Official

Hana Junio

Client Manager

Any further questions?

Please get in touch and our specialists will promptly respond.

Consultation

+971 56 505 6283

FAQ

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Setting up a mainland company in Dubai requires careful attention to detail and an understanding of local regulations. Professional business setup consultants can guide you through the process.