UAE Mainland Business Setup

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has evolved into one of the most attractive global destinations for business incorporation. With a stable economy, investor-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, and strategic global positioning, the UAE mainland offers unmatched advantages for businesses looking to grow locally and internationally.

At Taxonomy Global Business Advisory, we provide end-to-end support for businesses seeking to establish a presence within the UAE mainland. Whether you’re a startup founder, multinational executive, or investor seeking operational reach in the region, our advisory team ensures your setup is compliant, efficient, and aligned with your goals.

Mainland Business Setup: Key Advantages

Choosing a mainland license opens the door to comprehensive business activities and broader market access within the UAE and beyond.

100% Foreign Ownership
Market Access
Wider Business Scope
No Currency Restrictions
Unlimited Visa Quotas
Eligibility for Government Contracts
Access to UAE Banking and Financial Ecosystems
Strategic Location
These factors make the UAE mainland an ideal base for companies seeking long-term, scalable growth in the Middle East and beyond.

Incorporation Requirements

To begin the incorporation process, several documents must be prepared based on the structure and shareholder type.

Individual Shareholders

  • Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Passport-sized photo with white background
  • Emirates ID and residence visa (if resident)
  • Entry visa or stamp page (if non-resident)

Corporate Shareholders

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Board Resolution authorizing UAE business setup
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Power of Attorney for the authorized signatory
  • Passport copies of UBOs (Ultimate Beneficial Owners)
Note: All corporate documents must be notarized and attested in the country of origin and legalized for UAE use.

Common Mainland Business Structures

Limited Liability Company (LLC):
 Suitable for commercial, industrial, and service-based activities. Allows up to 50 shareholders and is the most widely used structure.

Sole Establishment:
 A single-owner structure suited for individuals providing professional or consultancy services.

Civil Company:
 Designed for professionals such as consultants, doctors, engineers, and lawyers who want to form a partnership.

Branch of a Foreign Company:
 Allows foreign companies to establish a full-fledged branch in the UAE for local operations.

Our team will recommend the most suitable structure based on your goals, ownership preferences, and regulatory considerations.

Process for UAE Mainland Business Incorporation

Consultation and Planning
 Define your business activity, legal structure, and required approvals.

Trade Name Reservation
 Reserve your proposed company name with the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Initial Approval
 Obtain preliminary approval from authorities based on your proposed activity and structure.

Office Space Selection
 Secure physical office premises as mandated by the DED for mainland entities.

Document Preparation
 Draft and notarize the Memorandum of Association (MoA), tenancy contract, and other required documentation.

License Application Submission
 Submit the final set of documents to the DED and obtain your commercial license.

Immigration & Visa Processing
 Register with immigration, apply for investor and employee visas, and activate your labor file.

Bank Account Opening
 We assist with opening a corporate bank account with reputable UAE banking institutions.

Why Choose Taxonomy Global Business Advisory?

As a trusted advisor we take time to understand your goals and recommend the most suitable structure, activity, and jurisdiction because no two businesses are the same.

Our Value Proposition:

Global Reach, Local Expertise: We incorporate businesses not only in the UAE but also in other key markets such as the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Thailand (Bangkok), and Hong Kong. Our experienced consultants navigate each jurisdiction’s legal, tax, and regulatory landscape with precision.

Extensive Partner Network: We collaborate with an established network of legal, tax, and government relations partners to ensure full compliance in every local jurisdiction.

Cross-Border Solutions: Our services go beyond setup—we offer international tax structuring, expansion strategies, and financial advisory to support your long-term business goals.

End-to-End Incorporation Support: From license application and document drafting to visa processing and corporate banking, we manage the entire incorporation process, allowing you to focus on your core business.

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