Since 2021 most mainland activities in Dubai allow 100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required. Here's what mainland LLC setup actually looks like in 2026.
Mainland vs free zone
Mainland (DED) lets you trade freely anywhere in the UAE, bid on government contracts, and open unlimited branches. Free zone is usually cheaper but restricts you to the free-zone jurisdiction + exports unless you appoint a local service agent.
Cost breakdown (2026)
| Item | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade name reservation | 720 |
| Initial approval | 235 |
| MOA notarisation | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| DED license issuance | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Ejari-attested office / flexi-desk | 3,500 – 30,000 |
| Chamber of Commerce | 1,200 |
| Establishment card (Immigration) | 2,000 |
| Investor visa (2-year) | 4,500 – 6,500 |
Total: typically AED 25,000 – 45,000 for a lean one-shareholder mainland LLC with 2-year investor visa.
Step-by-step
- Select activity (consult the 2,000+ DED activity list).
- Reserve trade name.
- Initial approval.
- Draft and notarise MOA.
- Secure office / Ejari-attested lease.
- Pay license fee — trade license issued.
- Apply for establishment card + investor visa.
- Open a corporate bank account (2–4 weeks).
Do I need a local sponsor?
No, for the vast majority of commercial and industrial activities. A few "strategic" activities (e.g. oil & gas, defence) still require Emirati participation.
Tax obligations
- VAT: mandatory registration at AED 375,000 annual turnover.
- Corporate Tax: 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000.
- ESR and UBO filings: annual, mandatory for most activities.
Need help with this?
Our PRO consultants handle the full process end-to-end — documents, government submission, and delivery. Service fee is fully refundable pre-submission.