You can then apply for a licence on the Department of Economic Development (DED) website. You will also be required to submit certain documents. You may need to submit a Memorandum Sponsor Arrangements (MSA), Shareholder Visas or a Business Ownership Contract. The application process will vary based on the legal structure and nature of your business.
Step 7: Employee visas
Now is the time to hire employees. If you plan to hire foreign employees, you will need employment visas.
There are no restrictions on the number of visas that you can issue. This means that it is limitless. You only need to make sure that the number you apply for corresponds to the size of your office. You should be aware that the general rule is one visa per 100 square feet. Ft. Also, depending on the number of square feet in your office, you can apply for employees’ visas.
Let HM Corporate help you:
StartinDid you know mainland businesses in Dubai, unlike those in free zones, can engage in a wider range of activities and operate anywhere in the UAE? If you also want to explore this lucrative opportunity, you must keep reading. In today’s guide, we will explore the benefits of starting a mainland company in Dubai and learn how to do it.
Benefits of Company Formation in Dubai Mainland
You can enjoy the following benefits when you establish your business in Dubai Mainland.
- Recent changes to the UAE mainland business law allow foreign investors full control of their businesses without any local sponsorship.
- Even without restrictions, you can trade both nationally and internationally.
- The UAE allows you to trade internationally and within the UAE without restriction.
- Bid on government tenders and contracts.
- Strong and transparent legal systems that protect business interests.
- You can keep all of your profits and capital.
- Sponsor dependents and employees for visas.
- A mainland business in Dubai is also entitled to corporate tax exemption.
- With multiple branches in the Emirates, you can create a strong business presence.
How can you start a company on the mainland in Dubai?
Step 1: Determine your business activity
To set up a mainland UAE company, you must first decide what type of business you have. You can handle the licensing process more efficiently if you have a thorough understanding of what your company does, such as your business type or activity. If you plan to open a cafe or restaurant, for example, “food and beverage service” can be your business activity.
DED has compiled a list of 2,000 approved activities. You can select and review the list. To obtain a license, it is compulsory to list your company under one of these categories. This list includes a wide range of services related to manufacturing, agriculture, and hospitality.
Step 2: Choose a legal structure
After determining the nature of your business, you will need to choose a legal structure.
Dubai offers a wide range of legal structures, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and limited liability companies. Legal structures are chosen based on a variety of factors, including ownership, liability, and tax implications. Foreign investors prefer LLCs because of the limited liability protection. To make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals, you should carefully consider the pros and cons of each structure.
Step 3: Find a local sponsor
Recently, the UAE government allowed foreign investors who are not locals to run mainland businesses in Dubai. Certain business activities do still require a local sponsor. In these cases, the investor is required to own a certain percentage. Choose a sponsor that understands your goals and has a solid reputation.
Keep in mind that the success of your business depends also on your partnership with your sponsor. You must, therefore, maintain your relationship professionally and ethically.
HM Corporate can help you. We will nominate a person to be your local partner and sponsor. You will be in full control of all your finances, decisions, and profits. Contact us for more information.
Step 4: Name your company
Carefully consider the name you choose for your business. For example, you should make sure that your business name is memorable and distinct. It must reflect your intended business type or nature in the name. You should also make sure that the name of your business adheres with Dubai’s naming rules. The name must not contain offensive words or political or religious affiliation. To avoid conflicts, you can also conduct a thorough investigation.
Step 5: Select a location for your business
Selecting the ideal location for your business is essential on the mainland. To get a mainland license, you need a registered address. The business must meet all the requirements, including those for decor, cafes, high-speed internet, office desks, meeting rooms, etc.
To prove that you own the property, you must have a lease or ownership agreement.
Step 6: Applying for a mainland license
g a business on the mainland in Dubai requires a thorough understanding of its fundamentals. This includes everything from determining what your business is to obtaining all necessary licenses.
Don’t worry. HM Corporate has a team of experts that can help you. They understand the intricate details involved in forming a mainland company in Dubai.
Get a FREE Consultation Now!
