If you’re planning a move to Dubai, for both your business and your family, understanding how to set yourself up here properly is key.
A mainland business setup gives you the ability to operate directly within the UAE, take on larger opportunities, and build something that can scale, all within a structure that’s more straightforward than it first appears.
Where Most People Start
A mainland license gives you full control across most commercial and professional activities, with 100% ownership now standard across the majority of sectors.
Key advantages include:
100% ownership across most activities
The ability to trade freely across the UAE and internationally
Eligibility to bid on UAE government contracts
No fixed cap on visas, allowing you to scale your team as your business grows
What That Cost Actually Covers
A mainland setup is typically made up of three core components:
Licensing (Department of Economy and Tourism – DET): AED 15,000 – 25,000
Covers trade name reservation and initial approval, license issuance, Dubai Chamber of Commerce registration, and administrative fees such as MOA drafting, notary fees, and service agent agreements
Office Space (Ejari Registration):
Virtual / Flexi-desk: AED 5,000 – 12,000 per year
Physical Office: From AED 25,000+ per year
A registered office lease (Ejari) is mandatory for all mainland businesses. Costs vary by location, with areas like Business Bay and Sheikh Zayed Road typically commanding premium rates, along with a 5% municipality fee applied to the annual rent.
Investor Visa Package: AED 6,500 – 8,500
Includes establishment card (~AED 2,000), entry permit or change of status (AED 1,500 – 2,500), medical fitness test and Emirates ID (~AED 1,200), and visa stamping and insurance (~AED 2,000). The investor visa is valid for two years and grants full UAE residency
Total Investment
Minimum (lean setup): ~AED 25,000
Maximum (year one): ~AED 45,000
Year one carries the highest costs due to initial approvals, registrations, and setup fees. From year two onwards, renewal costs are typically 20–30% lower, as you are primarily renewing your license, visa, and office lease.
Compliance & Ongoing Costs (2026)
Corporate Tax: 9% applied to net profits exceeding AED 375,000, with businesses below this threshold remaining tax-exempt
VAT: 5%, with registration mandatory once annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000
UBO Declaration: Mandatory disclosure of Ultimate Beneficial Owners for all mainland companies under UAE regulations
Timeline & Next Steps
From decision to license, the mainland setup process follows a clear and structured sequence.
Finalise your business activity and trade name
Secure your office space and Ejari
Apply for your DET license
Complete your investor visa and Emirates ID
Most straightforward setups can be completed within 3 to 6 weeks, depending on business activity complexity and document readiness. Working with a registered business setup consultant can help accelerate each stage.
If you’re exploring your options, we’d be happy to guide you through it and connect you with the right people to get started.
