Main Land
Start Your Business in Dubai Mainland – Choose the Right Company Type & License
Dubai Mainland offers flexible business structures and a diverse range of licenses to help businesses operate successfully in the UAE. Whether you are an entrepreneur, SME, or multinational corporation, choosing the right company type and license is crucial for legal compliance and operational efficiency.
We simplify the entire process—guiding you from selection to company registration!
Dubai Mainland Business Structures (Company Types)
When setting up a business in Dubai Mainland, you must choose the right company structure based on your goals, ownership preferences, and operational requirements.
1. Sole Establishment (Sole Proprietorship)
✔ 100% Owned by a Single Individual (UAE or foreigner)
✔ Best for freelancers & professionals (consulting, legal, IT, etc.)
✔ Requires a Local Service Agent for foreigners (no ownership in the company)
✔ Personal liability on business debts
Ideal For: Consultants, service providers, and small businesses.
2. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
✔ Most common business structure in UAE Mainland
✔ 100% foreign ownership allowed in selected activities (or 51% UAE national partner for restricted sectors)
✔ Minimum 2 to 50 shareholders
✔ Liability limited to the company’s assets
Ideal For: Trading, commercial, and general businesses.
3. Branch of a Foreign Company
✔ 100% ownership by the parent company
✔ Operates under the same legal identity as the parent company
✔ Required to appoint a Local Service Agent
✔ Can engage in commercial and industrial activities
Ideal For: International companies expanding into the UAE.
4. Representative Office
✔ A non-revenue-generating entity (cannot conduct business or trade)
✔ Can promote and market the parent company’s services/products
✔ Requires a Local Service Agent
Ideal For: Market research & brand promotion for foreign companies.
5. Public & Private Joint Stock Companies
✔ Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC): Requires at least 5 shareholders & shares publicly traded
✔ Private Joint Stock Company (PrJSC): Requires at least 3 shareholders & shares not publicly traded
✔ Suitable for large-scale enterprises & IPOs
Ideal For: Large corporations, financial institutions & stock market listings.
Dubai Mainland Business Licenses
To operate legally in Dubai Mainland, you must obtain a business license based on your activity.
6. Commercial License
Required for: Trading, import/export, retail, e-commerce, real estate, and logistics.
✔ Suitable for companies involved in buying & selling goods
✔ Allows local and international trade
7. Professional License
Required for: Consultancy, IT, legal, healthcare, marketing, and other professional services.
✔ 100% foreign ownership allowed
✔ Requires a Local Service Agent
8. Industrial License
Required for: Manufacturing, production, and industrial activities.
✔ Grants permission to manufacture goods, import raw materials, and export products
✔ Requires a warehouse or factory space
9. Tourism License
Required for: Hotels, travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality businesses.
✔ Issued by Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM)
✔ Allows companies to legally operate in the UAE’s tourism sector
10. Freelance Permit
Required for: Independent professionals in media, tech, consultancy, and creative industries.
✔ No need for a physical office
✔ Operate as an individual under your name
How to Choose the Right Company Type & License?
Not sure which business structure or license suits your needs?
Book a Free Consultation – Our experts will assess your requirements & recommend the best option.
Speak to a Business Consultant
Why Choose Us?
Expert Business Advisors – 10+ years of experience in UAE company formation.
Fast & Hassle-Free Setup – We handle everything from documentation to approvals.
100% Legal Compliance – Transparent process, no hidden costs.
Local Sponsorship & PRO Services – Reliable Emirati sponsorship if needed.