Full access to the UAE domestic economy with 100% foreign ownership, unrestricted trading capability, and DED commercial licensing.
UAE mainland incorporation provides what free zones cannot: unrestricted access to the domestic market. Mainland entities can trade directly with any business or individual within the UAE without the need for a local distribution agent or intermediary arrangement.
Since the 2020 amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is permitted for mainland entities across the majority of commercial and industrial activities. This has fundamentally transformed the mainland proposition, eliminating the historical requirement for a 51% UAE national partner in most sectors.
Polaris guides clients through the full mainland incorporation process — from initial activity selection and trade name reservation through DED licensing, establishment card issuance, and operational launch. Our advisory extends beyond the administrative to address the strategic: whether mainland is genuinely the right structure, or whether a free zone or hybrid arrangement better serves the client's commercial objectives.
Mainland incorporation is typically optimal for businesses that need to trade directly with UAE government entities, operate physical retail locations, provide services across the UAE without geographic restriction, or engage in activities not permitted within free zone frameworks. Construction, real estate brokerage, certain professional services, and food and beverage operations are among the activities that benefit most from mainland licensing.
For businesses that primarily serve international markets or do not require domestic trading capability, a free zone structure may offer greater tax efficiency and administrative simplicity. We assess each client's specific commercial requirements before recommending a structure.
Identification of optimal DED activity codes and trade name reservation aligned with your commercial objectives.
Submission of MOA, shareholder documentation, NOC letters, and premises lease agreement to DED for initial approval.
DED commercial licence issuance, establishment card, and immigration card processing.
Investor and employee visa processing, corporate bank account opening facilitation, and compliance registrations.
For the majority of commercial and industrial activities, no. The 2020 amendments to the Commercial Companies Law permit 100% foreign ownership. However, certain regulated activities — such as banking, insurance, and some oil and gas activities — still require UAE national participation. We confirm ownership requirements during the initial consultation.
The primary difference is market access. A mainland LLC can trade freely within the UAE domestic market, while a free zone entity is technically restricted to operating within its designated zone and internationally. Mainland entities are licensed by DED, while free zone entities are licensed by their respective free zone authority.
Typical processing time is 5-10 business days from submission of complete documentation, though this can vary depending on the specific activity and any additional regulatory approvals required.
Whether you are establishing a new venture, restructuring an existing enterprise, or exploring residency pathways — we are here to advise.
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