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Harness our expertise to navigate the optimal corporate structure for your UAE business venture. When establishing a company in the UAE, investors have the choice between registering on the mainland of an Emirate or within one of its designated free zones.

Opting for a mainland setup grants investors unparalleled freedom and flexibility to shape and grow their business. These companies obtain a mainland license from the Department of Economic Development (DET) of the respective Emirate.

A key advantage of mainland companies is their unfettered access to the vast UAE market, as well as international markets, with minimal trade restrictions. This opens doors to a wealth of commercial opportunities and fuels business expansion.

WHAT IS A MAINLAND COMPANY?

UAE MainLand

WHAT IS A MAINLAND COMPANY?

UAE MainLand

Harness our expertise to navigate the optimal corporate structure for your UAE business venture. When establishing a company in the UAE, investors have the choice between registering on the mainland of an Emirate or within one of its designated free zones.

Opting for a mainland setup grants investors unparalleled freedom and flexibility to shape and grow their business. These companies obtain a mainland license from the Department of Economic Development (DET) of the respective Emirate.

A key advantage of mainland companies is their unfettered access to the vast UAE market, as well as international markets, with minimal trade restrictions. This opens doors to a wealth of commercial opportunities and fuels business expansion.

Benefit from the UAE's position
The global economic hub with the highest growth rate

 

The amendments made to the Commercial Companies Law in 2021 have led to a surge in the popularity of mainland company formation among foreign investors.

This can be attributed to the following factors:

Perfect conditions for your business

Allow Cassa Corporate Services to assist you in selecting the optimal corporate structure for your mainland company in the United Arab Emirates, enabling you to leverage the following advantages.

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Unlimited number of company activities under a single license.

DED provides an extensive selection of over 2000 business activities for you to explore and select from.

Get An Estimate

Unlimited number of
company activities under
a single license.

DED provides an extensive selection of over 2000 business activities for you to explore and select from.

Get An Estimate

Variety of legal options

LLCs and Private Joint-Stock Companies (including single-owner companies) are among the available corporate structures.

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More Benefits

Capital without restrictions.
No minimum or maximum restrictions on the capital amount.

No limit in UAE resident visas
Eligibility for visas will be determined based on the size of the office space.

Enchase more business opportunities.
Present exclusive private and government projects that are not accessible within Free Zones.

Office anywhere in Dubai No restrictions on the choice of location for renting or purchasing an office or commercial space.

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MAINLAND COMPANY VS FREE ZONE COMPANY

Select the appropriate legal solution that aligns with your business objectives!

In contrast to a mainland company, a free zone company is established within a designated jurisdiction within an Emirate.

The issuance of trade licenses falls under the jurisdiction of the Free Zone Authority, while mainland companies acquire trade licenses from the Department of Economic Development. Free zones in the UAE offer advantages such as 100% foreign ownership and tax incentives.

A business entity operating under a free zone structure can solely engage in business activities within the free zone and outside the UAE. On the other hand, a business entity operating under a mainland structure has the flexibility to conduct business both within the UAE and internationally.

COMPARING THE FEATURES OF
MAINLAND VS FREE ZONE LICENSES

COMPARING THE FEATURES OF
MAINLAND VS FREE ZONE
LICENSES

Features Free Zone License Mainland License
Company ownership 100% foreign ownership When the activity is listed in DET's approved activities list, foreign ownership is 100%. For strategic activities, UAE/GCC shareholders must hold 51% of the shares
Minimum share capital Starting from AED 10,000. Each free zone has its requirements for proof and the amount No standard requirement, determined by the legal structure
Company setup procedure 100% remote The physical presence of shareholder(s) or POA is required
Business setup time 12 - 15 days 7 - 10 days
Work premises Office facilities are required for all free zone businesses. In almost all free zones Virtual office options are available Minimum of 140 sqm. office space is required
Import/ export duties No exemption Free zone companies are allowed to import and export goods to other countries without customs duties
Financial audits Depending on a free zone Mandatory for all businesses
Corporate bank account Starting from 3 weeks Within 2-3 weeks
Visa eligibility With sufficient office space visa eligibility can be unlimited With sufficient office space visa eligibility can be unlimited

Why you choose to setup your business with CASSA

Seamless Business Establishment

We offer comprehensive company formation services for smooth business setup.

Resourceful Expansion

Access every resource needed for business expansion, ensuring a strong foundation for growth.

Tax and Accounting Support

Benefit from our expert tax and accounting services to keep your finances in order.

Efficient Hiring Assistance

Receive professional help with hiring the right talent to build a successful team.

Legal Support

Get thorough legal support to navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure compliance.

Co-Working Spaces

Utilize modern co-working spaces that foster collaboration and innovation for your business operations.

Why you choose to setup your business with CASSA

Seamless Business Establishment

We offer comprehensive company formation services for smooth business setup.

Efficient Hiring Assistance

Receive professional help with hiring the right talent to build a successful team.

Resourceful Expansion

Access every resource needed for business expansion, ensuring a strong foundation for growth.

Legal Support

Get thorough legal support to navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure compliance.

Tax and Accounting Support

Benefit from our expert tax and accounting services to keep your finances in order.

Co-Working Spaces

Utilize modern co-working spaces that foster collaboration and innovation for your business operations.

Contact us

HOW CAN WE HELP?

Our team at Cassa Corporate Services can assist you in registering a mainland company in the UAE. While obtaining a Mainland License can be time-consuming, legal guidance can streamline the process and help select the right legal framework.

We support you in determining the best corporate structure and provide assistance throughout the registration process until your company is fully operational and compliant with UAE laws.

Additionally, we help with visa applications, opening bank accounts, bookkeeping, and tax compliance.