Frequently Asked Questions About UAE Mainland

Answer:

• Registered under the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
• Can operate anywhere in the UAE.
• Allowed to do business with government and private sectors.

Answer:

• Yes, 100% ownership is allowed for most business activities in UAE Mainland.
• Some strategic sectors may still require a UAE national partner.

Answer:

• Freedom to operate across the UAE.
• Eligibility for government contracts.
• No restrictions on office locations.
• Full repatriation of capital and profits.

Answer:

• Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly DED.

Answer:

• Commercial License (trading activities)
• Professional License (services/consultancy)
• Industrial License (manufacturing/production)
• Tourism License (hospitality/travel)

Answer:

• Typically 3 to 7 working days.
• Depends on document submission and approvals.

Answer:

• Yes, a valid Ejari-registered office address is required.
• Virtual or shared offices not accepted for UAE Mainland Setup.

Answer:

• Yes, Mainland companies can sponsor visas for investors and employees.
• Visa quota depends on office size and activity.

Answer:

• No fixed minimum capital requirement for most activities.
• Must be stated in the Memorandum of Association (MoA).

Answer:

• Yes, related activities can be grouped under one license.
• Must fall under the same license category.

Answer:

• Required only for certain professional activities.
• UAE national who represents the business but has no ownership stake.

Answer:

• Yes, branches can be opened in any emirate.
• Must be registered with the respective local authority.

Answer:

• 0% tax on profits up to AED 375,000.
• 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding that threshold.

Answer:

• Yes, they can freely trade with Free Zone and international companies.
• Import/export regulations must be followed.

Answer:

• Yes, audited financial statements may be required annually.
• Depends on license type and activity.

Answer:

• Submit renewal application to DET.
• Renew Ejari and pay renewal fees.
• No-objection certificates (NOCs) may be needed.

Answer:

• Yes, with proper approvals and re-registration.
• May involve relocation, new licensing, and meeting DET requirements.

Answer:

• Retail and wholesale trade
• Restaurants and cafes
• Consulting and legal services
• Real estate and construction
• Logistics and transport

Answer:

• Yes, with a valid trade license and company documents.
• Banks may require business plans and utility bills.

Answer:

• Recommended for visa processing, document clearance, and renewals.
• Can be outsourced or hired internally.