Company Setup in Mainland
A & AB Associates LLC
Company Setup in Mainland
At A&AB Associates, we understand that dealing with the complexities of setting up a business on Dubai's Mainland can be challenging. Our expert team is dedicated to providing services that streamline the process and ensure your business thrives in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Mainland
Adopting the right corporate structure for your UAE business will be a crucial element of its success.
There are several mainland setup options available in the UAE, to suit different business objectives.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
A limited liability company is suitable for commercial/trading activities. In order to incorporate an LLC in Dubai an application must be made to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) to obtain a commercial/trade licence, which requires the LLC to have business premises in Dubai. An LLC has a UAE domicile and nationality and can be owned by between two and fifty (foreign) shareholders whose liability will be limited to the extent of their share in the Dubai LLC’s capital.
There is no minimum share capital for a Dubai LLC, but its share capital must be adequate for its purposes.
Civil Partnership
A Civil Partnership (also referred to as a “professional company”) is suitable for conducting consultancy or service-related activities. A Civil Partnership can be formed by two or more individuals. The partners do not enjoy limited liability and are jointly liable for any debts or losses of the Civil Partnership, unless otherwise stated in the Civil Partnership Agreement.
The Civil Partnership must appoint a UAE national, or company wholly-owned by UAE nationals, as its Local Services Agent. The Local Services Agent is appointed pursuant to a Local Services Agreement and provides local services, such as facilitating the issuance of residency visas and work permits for your employees, and handling the renewal of the professional licence each year in return for an annual services fee. The Local Service Agent does not assume any financial or legal liability for the Civil Partnership.
The partners maintain full 100% ownership and control of the business. However, a general manager may be appointed from among the partners to manage the Civil Partnership. If the manager acts outside the scope of his powers, he shall be personally liable for any loss suffered by the Civil Partnership as a result of his/her actions.
Sole Proprietorship
A Sole Proprietorship can only be formed by one individual (whether local or expatriate) to carry on business in the owner’s name. The owner is, however, personally liable for any debts or losses of the Establishment.
An Establishment owned by an expatriate can only carry on professional or consultancy-related activities and must appoint a Local Services Agent (See Civil Partnership for more information). The Local Service Agent does not assume any financial or legal liability for the Establishment.
An Establishment owned by an Emirati may carry on commercial or trading activities. Given its unlimited nature, however, a limited liability company is often the preferred vehicle for carrying on such activities today.
Foreign Branch
A foreign company wishing to carryon professional activities in Dubai must establish a Branch of its parent company and obtain a professional licence from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) and Commercial Registration Certificate (CRC) from the Ministry of Economy (MOE), which requires the Branch to have business premises in Dubai.
A Branch does not have a separate legal personality from that of its parent. To establish a Branch, the parent company must appoint a UAE national, or company wholly-owned by UAE nationals, as its Local Services Agent (See Civil Partnership for more information).
The National Agent does not, however, assume any financial or legal liability for the Branch. The foreign investors maintain full ownership and control of the business which is operated through a general manager who must be, or become, a UAE resident.
There are no capitalisation requirements, but the parent is required to show details of its own capitalisation and good standing and a bank guarantee might be required. Profits of the Branch can be repatriated without deduction.
The Branch’s professional activities must reflect those of its parent company. The application must be supported by the parent company’s corporate documents, which must be notarised, attested and translated into Arabic.
Establishing your business on Dubai’s Mainland offers numerous benefits, which includes-
- Access to Local Markets - Operate freely within the UAE and tap into a diverse customer base.
- No Limitations on Business Activities - Unlike Free Zones, Mainland companies can engage in a wider range of business activities.
- Government Contracts - Qualify for lucrative government contracts and tenders.
- Flexible Office Space Options - Choose from a variety of locations to suit your operational needs.
Experienced Team: Our consultants have extensive experience in Dubai’s business environments and regulatory environment.
Personalized Solutions: We understand that every business is unique, and we provide customized services to meet your specific needs.
Client-Centric Approach: Your success is our priority. We are committed to providing exceptional support and guidance.
Proven Success: Many businesses have successfully established and expanded their operations with our expert assistance.
Our Services
Business Setup Advisory
Our knowledgeable consultants will guide you in choosing the right business structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.) that aligns with your goals and ensures compliance with local laws.
Licensing and Registration
We handle the complete licensing process, from initial application to final approval. Our team ensures you have all the necessary permits, including:
- Trade license
- Professional license
- Industrial license
Local Sponsorship Services
For foreign investors, a local sponsor is often required. We facilitate the process of finding a reliable local partner who can represent your business while ensuring a fair and transparent agreement.
Documentation Assistance
Our team assists you in preparing and submitting essential documentation, such as:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shareholder agreements
- Lease agreements
Business Activity Approvals
We specialize in obtaining approvals for various business activities across multiple sectors. Whether you’re in retail, hospitality, construction, or services, we ensure your activities meet local regulations.
Ongoing Compliance Support
Stay compliant with local laws with our ongoing support services, including:
- License renewals
- Financial audits
- Regulatory updates
Office Space Solutions
We provide guidance in finding the right office space that meets your business needs, whether it’s a traditional office, co-working space, or retail location.
Industries We Serve
Our services cater to a diverse range of industries, including:
- Retail and E-commerce
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Construction and Real Estate
- Healthcare and Wellness
- Information Technology
Highlights
- A customs duty and low VAT rate of only 5%
- Unlimited trade with local and foreign markets
- No trade limitations, no trade barriers, no trade quotas
- UAE residency visa allowed (facilitates banking)
- Availability of inexpensive workforce
- Compulsory to lease suitable commercial premises
- All banking transactions are facilitated
At A & AB Associates LLC we are committed to deliverring exceptional banking solutions that meet your unique needs and exceed your expectations.