The Mainland Company license in the UAE (issued by the Department of Economic Development or DED) offers several significant advantages, especially for businesses that want a strong local presence.
Key Comparison Note
Mainland companies are typically the ideal choice for businesses that:
- If you want to sell goods or services directly to the local UAE market and customers.
- Need to establish a physical presence outside of a specific Free Zone area.
- Seeking to engage with government clients or participate in public tenders.
Key Advantages of a Mainland Company License
Full Market Access | This is the biggest benefit. A Mainland company can trade directly and freely with the local market and consumers across all Emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.) and internationally. |
100% Foreign Ownership | Recent amendments have allowed 100% foreign ownership of companies in most business activities, eliminating the previous need for a 51% local sponsor. |
Bid on Government Contracts | Mainland companies are typically the only ones eligible to bid for and secure lucrative contracts and projects with UAE government entities. |
Location Flexibility | You have the freedom to set up your office anywhere in the registered Emirate (outside a Free Zone), allowing you to choose a strategic location closer to your customers or a commercial hub. |
Unlimited Visas (Scalability) | There are no strict limits on the number of employee visas you can apply for; the quota is typically determined by the size of your office space, allowing for easier large-scale expansion. |
Wider Scope of Activities | Mainland licenses generally offer a broader range of commercial and industrial activities compared to Free Zone licenses, which are often restricted to a specific industry focus. |
Easy Branch Expansion | You can easily open branch offices across different Emirates, helping you build a widespread physical presence throughout the UAE. |
