Mainland Company Formation Packages – UAE

 

Mainland company formation in the United Arab Emirates allows businesses to operate anywhere within the UAE and internationally without restrictions on location or trade. Mainland licenses are issued by the respective Department of Economic Development (DED) in each emirate and provide the most flexible structure for companies looking to do business directly with the local market.

Mainland businesses can participate in government contracts, trade freely within the UAE, open unlimited bank accounts, and apply for an unlimited number of visas (subject to office space). Ownership regulations now allow 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, removing the previous requirement for a local partner in many activities.

Below are the main company formation options and starting prices in each emirate for 2025.


Dubai Mainland

Overview:
Dubai Mainland is the most sought-after location for company formation due to its strong business ecosystem, global connectivity, and access to government contracts. Businesses can operate throughout the UAE and internationally without restrictions.

Packages and Starting Prices

Package Type Starting Price (AED) Notes
LLC Company Formation From 14,500 Standard commercial or professional license
Professional License From 13,800 For service, consultancy, and freelance activities
Branch of Foreign Company From 18,000 Requires parent company documents
General Trading License From 19,500 For multiple trading activities
Investor Visa Package From 4,000 per visa 2-year validity

 

Included Services:

  • Trade name reservation and initial approval

  • Drafting and notarization of MOA and AOA

  • Commercial license issuance

  • Establishment card and immigration file

  • UAE residence visa support

  • Emirates ID and medical test assistance

  • PRO support for documentation and approvals


Abu Dhabi Mainland

Overview:
Abu Dhabi Mainland is ideal for companies targeting government contracts, industrial projects, and large-scale services. It offers a stable business environment and simplified licensing through the Abu Dhabi DED.

Packages and Starting Prices

Package Type Starting Price (AED) Notes
LLC Company Formation From 13,500 Commercial or industrial license
Professional License From 12,800 For service-based activities
Branch of Foreign Company From 17,500 Requires parent company attested documents
General Trading License From 18,800 Covers multiple trading activities
Investor Visa Package From 4,000 per visa 2-year validity

 

Included Services:

  • Trade name reservation and initial approval

  • License issuance

  • MOA/AOA drafting and notarization

  • Establishment card and immigration services

  • Investor visa and status change support

  • Medical and Emirates ID registration


Sharjah Mainland

Overview:
Sharjah Mainland is a cost-effective option for startups and SMEs seeking mainland advantages with lower overhead costs. It offers easy access to UAE markets and proximity to ports and logistics hubs.

Packages and Starting Prices

Package Type Starting Price (AED) Notes
LLC Company Formation From 11,800 Commercial or professional license
Professional License From 11,000 For consultancy and service activities
Branch of Foreign Company From 15,500 Requires parent company legal documents
General Trading License From 17,200 Multiple trading activities
Investor Visa Package From 4,000 per visa 2-year validity

 

Included Services:

  • Company registration and license issuance

  • MOA/AOA drafting

  • Establishment card

  • Immigration file setup

  • Investor visa processing

  • Emirates ID and medical test support


Ajman Mainland

Overview:
Ajman Mainland is known for its low setup costs and simplified procedures, making it a preferred choice for startups and small businesses entering the UAE market.

Packages and Starting Prices

Package Type Starting Price (AED) Notes
LLC Company Formation From 11,000 Standard commercial license
Professional License From 10,800 For service or consultancy activities
Branch of Foreign Company From 14,000 Requires attested parent company documents
General Trading License From 16,000 Multiple activity trading license
Investor Visa Package From 4,000 per visa 2-year validity

 

Included Services:

  • Trade name reservation and initial approval

  • Business license issuance

  • MOA/AOA notarization

  • Establishment card and immigration services

  • Visa and status change support

  • Medical test and Emirates ID registration


Ras Al Khaimah Mainland

Overview:
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) offers competitive costs and attractive incentives for industrial, manufacturing, and trading companies. It’s ideal for businesses targeting export markets and logistics operations.

Packages and Starting Prices

Package Type Starting Price (AED) Notes
LLC Company Formation From 10,800 Commercial or industrial license
Professional License From 10,500 For consultancy and services
Branch of Foreign Company From 13,500 Requires attested parent documents
General Trading License From 15,500 Multiple activity trading license
Investor Visa Package From 4,000 per visa 2-year validity

 

Included Services:

  • Company registration and licensing

  • MOA/AOA drafting and attestation

  • Establishment card issuance

  • Visa processing and immigration file setup

  • Emirates ID and medical support


Notes and Conditions

  • All prices are starting estimates and may vary depending on business activity, visa count, and documentation.

  • Additional government fees may apply for specific activities or third-party approvals.

  • Visa costs exclude medical tests, Emirates ID fees, and health insurance.

  • Physical office space is required for visa allocation.

  • Processing times vary by emirate and security clearance.