Mainland company

A company licensed by an emirate's economic department — DET in Dubai, ADDED in Abu Dhabi — rather than by a free zone. It can trade anywhere in the UAE, bid for government contracts and open premises the public enters. Since 2021 most mainland activities permit 100% foreign ownership.

Where it comes up

A mainland licence is what you need to sell to UAE customers, open premises the public enters, or bid for government work. Since 2021 most activities allow full foreign ownership, which removed the reason most founders used to avoid it.

What it costs

Higher than a free zone once tenancy and Ejari are counted — commonly AED 30,000–50,000 or more in the first year, driven by property rather than by the licence.

Who it applies to

Retail, F&B, contracting, clinics, brokerage and anyone selling directly into the UAE market.

How it actually goes

1. Initial approvalThe DED or DET confirms it has no objection to the proposed activity and shareholders. It does not permit trading.
2. Reserve the trade nameSubject to the naming rules, which are stricter than most founders expect.
3. Draft and notarise the MOABefore a notary public, with all shareholders present or represented under a notarised power of attorney.
4. Secure premises and EjariA registered commercial tenancy is a condition of issuance in Dubai, and its floor area sets the visa quota.
5. Clear external approvalsHealth, transport, media, education and dozens of other activities need a second regulator's sign-off before the licence issues.
6. Licence, then the filesTrade licence, then establishment card, then the immigration and labour files that let you hire.

Since the 2021 amendments most commercial and industrial activities permit full foreign ownership. A defined strategic-impact list still requires Emirati participation, and professional licences may still use a local service agent who holds no equity.

In short

• Full access to the UAE domestic market
• Requires physical premises with registered tenancy
• 100% foreign ownership on most activities since the 2021 CCL amendment

Where this leads

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