Dubai is one of the most business-friendly destinations in the world, attracting investors and entrepreneurs from every corner of the globe — including France. For French citizens looking to expand their business or explore new ventures in the UAE, starting a mainland business in Dubai is an excellent opportunity. With its strategic location, favorable tax policies, and strong economy, Dubai provides the perfect environment for French entrepreneurs to thrive.
Why Dubai Mainland is Ideal for French Investors
Setting up a mainland company in Dubai gives French business owners more flexibility and market access compared to free zone companies. Some key benefits include:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: French citizens can fully own their mainland businesses for most activities, thanks to recent UAE regulations.
- Unrestricted Market Access: Mainland companies can trade directly within the UAE and internationally without requiring a local distributor.
- Access to Government Contracts: Only mainland entities are eligible for UAE government projects and tenders.
- No Currency Restrictions: Businesses can freely transfer funds and trade in multiple currencies.
- Strategic Global Location: Dubai serves as a gateway to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it ideal for French companies looking to expand globally.
Step-by-Step Guide for French Citizens
1. Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is to determine your business activity. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai has an extensive list of approved activities, ranging from trading and consultancy to hospitality, real estate, and more.
2. Select a Legal Structure
Choosing the right legal structure is crucial. Common options include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most popular choice for trading and general business activities.
- Sole Establishment: Perfect for individual entrepreneurs offering professional services.
- Civil Company: Ideal for professional services like consultancy or design.
3. Reserve a Trade Name
Select a unique and meaningful trade name that aligns with UAE regulations. The name must reflect the nature of your business and avoid any prohibited terms.
4. Obtain Initial Approval
This approval from DET allows you to proceed with your business registration and confirms that there are no objections to your proposed business activity.
5. Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
For LLCs, you will need an MOA outlining your company’s ownership structure and roles. It must be notarized by a UAE public notary.
6. Secure Office Space
Mainland companies require a physical office address. Whether it’s a serviced office or a full commercial space, your tenancy contract must be registered with Ejari.
7. Apply for Additional Approvals
Certain sectors, such as healthcare, restaurants, or tourism, require additional approvals from government authorities like the Dubai Municipality or the Tourism Department.
8. Pay Fees and Collect Your Trade License
Once all the documents and approvals are in place, you pay the relevant fees and receive your trade license, officially allowing you to start operations.
9. Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your trade license, you can open a corporate bank account in the UAE. Most banks require your trade license, MOA, and shareholder details.
Visa Options for French Entrepreneurs
Setting up a mainland business gives French citizens the ability to apply for UAE residency visas for themselves, their families, and their employees. This visa also provides benefits like opening local bank accounts and easier access to regional travel.
Costs of Setting Up a Mainland Company
The cost of setting up a mainland company varies depending on factors such as:
- The type of business license (commercial, professional, or industrial).
- Office space rental and Ejari registration.
- Number of visas required.
- Any external approvals needed.
On average, setup costs can range from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 or higher, depending on your business activity and requirements.
Why Work with MAF Businessmen Services?
While Dubai’s company formation process is clear, navigating the documentation, legal steps, and approvals can be challenging if you’re not familiar with the system. MAF Businessmen Services simplifies this process for French citizens by offering:
- Expert guidance on selecting the right license and structure.
- Full support with trade name registration and legal documentation.
- Assistance with visas and corporate banking.
- End-to-end handling of all government approvals and paperwork.
- Ongoing business support even after the company is launched.
Opportunities for French Entrepreneurs in Dubai
French businesses and products have a strong reputation in Dubai, especially in sectors like:
- Luxury and Retail: French fashion, cosmetics, and high-end products are in high demand.
- Hospitality and F&B: French restaurants, bakeries, and cafés have a growing market in Dubai’s cosmopolitan dining scene.
- Design and Architecture: Dubai’s construction boom creates opportunities for French architects and interior designers.
- Consulting and Services: Business consulting, IT services, and marketing agencies can thrive in Dubai’s expanding economy.
- Trading and Export: French goods like wine, gourmet food, and furniture are popular in the UAE market.
Final Thoughts
For French citizens, setting up a mainland business in Dubai is an opportunity to enter one of the world’s fastest-growing business hubs. The UAE’s investor-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, and global connectivity make it the perfect place to build and expand a successful business.
With MAF Businessmen Services, you can navigate the process with ease, from licensing and documentation to visas and banking.
Contact us today:
For consultations or inquiries, email [email protected] and let MAF Businessmen Services help you start your business journey in Dubai.
