UAE Mainland companies have full access to the local market and can trade directly with UAE residents and government bodies. Since the 2021 reforms, 100% foreign ownership is permitted for most activities โ no UAE national sponsor required.
We handle the full setup with the Department of Economic Development (DED) โ trade name reservation, initial approval, MoA notarisation, Ejari (tenancy registration), and trade licence issuance.
Key benefits
- Full UAE market access. Trade directly with UAE residents, businesses, and government.
- No local sponsor needed. Since 2021 reforms, 100% foreign ownership is allowed for most activities.
- Visa quota. Sponsor employees and their families on UAE residence visas.
- Government tender eligibility. Bid on UAE government contracts (Mainland-only).
- Multi-emirate operations. Operate across all 7 emirates from one mainland licence.
Documents required
- Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
- Proof of address (utility bill, less than 3 months)
- Business plan and activities list
- Educational certificates (for some activities)
- Tenancy contract / Ejari (we help arrange)
- Initial Approval letter from DED
How the process works
- Activity selection & approvals. Confirm activity, foreign ownership %, and any special approvals required (e.g. health, education).
- Trade name reservation. Reserve company name with DED.
- Initial approval. DED issues initial approval โ green light to proceed.
- MoA notarisation. Memorandum of Association notarised at the UAE notary.
- Ejari & lease. Registered tenancy contract; we arrange a flexible-desk option if you don't have an office.
- Trade licence issuance. DED issues the trade licence โ you're operational.
Who is this for?
- Foreign founders wanting full UAE market access
- Companies needing UAE government contract eligibility
- Businesses with primarily UAE-based customers
- Founders intending to live in the UAE on a residence visa