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Dubai & Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Setup – 100% Ownership Options

Dubai & Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Setup – 100% Ownership Options

Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland or Abu Dhabi Mainland is one of the most preferred choices for entrepreneurs, investors, and startups seeking full access to the Dubai, UAE market. Dubai Mainland is regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), while Abu Dhabi mainland company setup is governed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). Both jurisdictions allow companies to operate freely across Dubai, UAE without restrictions.

Whether you plan to start a trading business, consultancy, manufacturing unit, contracting company, or service-based agency, a mainland business setup offers unmatched flexibility, expansion opportunities, and investor-friendly regulations.

Mainland business setup in Dubai, UAE is popular due to strategic locations, world-class infrastructure, stable economic policies, favorable tax structures, and seamless business ecosystems. With reforms such as 100% foreign ownership, simplified licensing, and investor-friendly regulations, both Dubai Mainland and Abu Dhabi mainland company setup have become top destinations for global entrepreneurs seeking secure and long-term business growth in Dubai, UAE.

Benefits of Mainland Company Setup in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

1. Full Market Access in Dubai, UAE

Companies established in Dubai Mainland or through Abu Dhabi mainland company setup can conduct business anywhere across Dubai, UAE. Mainland companies can open branches, trade freely, and collaborate with government clients—opportunities that freezone companies cannot fully access. This makes mainland business setup Dubai ideal for large-scale and growth-oriented operations.

2. Eligibility for Government Projects

Both Dubai Mainland and Abu Dhabi mainland company setup allow businesses to participate in government tenders, infrastructure projects, and high-value contracts. This is a major advantage for sectors such as construction, IT services, healthcare, education, logistics, and real estate development.

3. 100% Foreign Ownership

Thanks to recent reforms, most business activities allow 100% foreign ownership, giving investors total control over their Dubai Mainland company setup or Abu Dhabi mainland company setup.

4. Unlimited Visa Quota

Mainland companies can apply for investor and employee visas based on office space, allowing businesses to scale seamlessly.

5. Wide Range of Business Activities

Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer thousands of approved activities under commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism categories including trading, consultancy, IT services, construction, healthcare, education, logistics, hospitality, and marketing.

6. Strategic Infrastructure

Dubai and Abu Dhabi boast modern ports, international airports, highways, logistics hubs, business parks, and smart city services for seamless operations.

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Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Commercial License – Trading, retail, wholesale, e-commerce, general trading Professional License – Consultancy, IT services, marketing, education, medical, salons Industrial License – Manufacturing, factories, packaging, warehouses Tourism License – Travel agencies, tour operators, tourism services

Step-by-Step Process for Mainland Business Setup

Select Business Activity Reserve Trade Name Obtain Initial Approval Prepare MOA / LSA Documents Choose Office Space Submit Final Documentation Receive Trade License Apply for Visas & Open Bank Account

Cost of Mainland Business Setup

The Dubai mainland license cost typically starts from AED 12,500 to AED 20,000, while Abu Dhabi mainland company setup ranges from AED 9,000 to AED 15,000. Costs vary based on:

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Business activity Number of partners Office rent & lease External approvals Visa requirements Legal documentation

Visa & Office Requirements

Physical office or workspace with valid lease Investor, partner & employee visas Emirates ID processing Corporate bank account setup

Professional consultants ensure smooth Dubai Mainland and Abu Dhabi mainland company setup, preventing delays and compliance issues.

Why Choose EDEN COUNSEL?

EDEN COUNSEL provides end-to-end Dubai, UAE business setup services including consultation on business activity and license selection, government approvals, legal documentation, office setup, visa processing, corporate bank account setup, and long-term compliance support.

Our team guarantees fast, transparent, and fully compliant Dubai Mainland and Abu Dhabi mainland company setup, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on business growth in Dubai, UAE.

Mainland Business Setup Dubai & Abu Dhabi (FAQs)

1. What is Dubai Mainland business setup?

It refers to forming a company under DED, allowing businesses to operate anywhere in Dubai, UAE without restrictions.

2. What is Abu Dhabi mainland company setup?

It involves registering a company under ADDED, giving unrestricted access to local markets, government contracts, and full legal compliance in Dubai, UAE.

3. How much does Dubai Mainland business setup cost?

The Dubai mainland license cost starts from AED 12,500 to AED 20,000, depending on activity, office space, and approvals.

4. How much does Abu Dhabi mainland company setup cost?

The Abu Dhabi business license typically ranges from AED 9,000 to AED 15,000, depending on activity, office space, and visa requirements.

5. Is 100% foreign ownership allowed in Dubai & Abu Dhabi Mainland?

Yes. Most activities now permit full foreign ownership, giving investors complete control over their Dubai Mainland company setup or Abu Dhabi mainland company setup.

6. How long does it take to get a Mainland trade license in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

It usually takes 3–7 working days, depending on approvals and documentation in Dubai, UAE.

7. Is office space mandatory for Mainland company setup?

Yes. A physical office, warehouse, or co-working space with valid lease documentation is required for both Dubai Mainland and Abu Dhabi mainland company setup.