Emirco brought calm and clarity to what felt like a complicated setup. Every step was explained, and our license was handled without the usual back-and-forth.
Omar Hassan
Founder, Northstar Studio
Mainland company setup in Dubai.
Trade directly across the UAE market with a Dubai mainland licence, with your activity, approvals and documents handled by one experienced team.
Overview
What is a Mainland Company?
A mainland company is licensed by the Dubai government, so it can trade directly across the UAE market, with fewer limits on where and with whom you do business. Dubai mainland licences are issued through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and some activities also need approvals from other departments.
Emirco guides you through choosing your activity, preparing documents, obtaining the licence and completing any approvals needed. You get one point of contact from your first call to your licence.
Everything you need. Nothing left to guess.
New Mainland Trade License
A new mainland licence matched to your business activity, applied for and registered for you.
License Amendments
Changes to your existing mainland licence, such as activity, name, partners or address.
External Department Approvals
Assistance with approvals from other departments where your activity requires them.
Activity & Legal Structure Guidance
Help choosing the right activity and company structure before you apply.
Documents & Registration
We prepare your documents and complete the registration steps for you.
Visas & PRO After Setup
Employee and investor visas and day-to-day PRO support once your licence is issued.
Why Choose us
Your Trusted Partner for Mainland Setup
- Experienced support for mainland company formation
- Clear guidance on which activities allow full foreign ownership
- Transparent explanation of costs and requirements upfront
- Careful document checks to avoid delays
- Complete PRO, visa and document services after setup
- Help with visas, bank account guidance and renewals
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Mainland and a Free Zone company?
A mainland company can trade directly across the UAE market, while a Free Zone company is typically limited to operating within its zone or through a distributor, with some exceptions. Each has different licensing, office and ownership rules. We help you choose what suits your activity.
Can a foreigner fully own a mainland company?
For many activities, yes. Some activities may still require a UAE national partner or service agent. We confirm the rules for your activity before you commit.
Which trade license do I need?
It depends on what your business does. Commercial licences cover trading, professional licences cover services and expertise, and manufacturing licences cover production. Tell us your activity and we will confirm the right one.
Do I need a physical office?
Mainland companies generally need a registered office address, usually supported by a tenancy contract. Requirements can vary by activity, and we guide you on the options that fit your license.
Can you amend my existing licence?
Yes. We handle amendments to mainland and free zone licences, such as activity or details changes.
How long does setup take?
It depends on your activity, the approvals required and how quickly documents are ready. We give you an expected timeline up front.
Other Services
Business Setup & Licensing
Company formation, licensing and approvals guided from first idea to licence issuance.
Documentation clearing & typing
Start trading across the UAE with a Dubai mainland licence, guided end to end.
legal drafting & notary
Educational, personal and commercial documents attested for use in the UAE and abroad.
Ready to set up your mainland company?
Speak with an Emirco specialist and get a clear path forward, from choosing your activity to receiving your licence.