Starting a business in Dubai is one of the smartest moves for entrepreneurs looking to expand globally. The city is a hub for trade, finance, tourism, and technology, making it a strategic base for businesses of all sizes. For Indian citizens, Dubai is especially attractive due to its geographical proximity, strong India-UAE trade ties, and a tax-friendly environment.
Here’s the thing—while Dubai offers a lot of opportunities, setting up a business here isn’t as simple as just registering a name. There are rules, licenses, and local requirements that can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the process. This is where partnering with professionals like MAF Businessmen Services can make all the difference.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about starting a mainland business in Dubai as an Indian citizen.
Why Choose a Mainland Business in Dubai?
A mainland company allows you to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally without restrictions. Unlike a free zone business, which limits operations to specific zones or requires local distributors to trade across the UAE, a mainland license gives you full access to the local market.
Key benefits include:
- 100% foreign ownership (in most business activities) under updated UAE laws.
- No restrictions on the number of visas you can obtain (depends on office space).
- Ability to bid for government contracts and tenders.
- No minimum capital requirement for most licenses.
For Indian entrepreneurs, these benefits open doors to markets across the Gulf region while maintaining close ties to India.
Step-by-Step Process to Start a Mainland Business in Dubai
1. Choose the Right Business Activity
Dubai offers over 2,000 types of business activities, from trading and consultancy to real estate, logistics, and e-commerce. Picking the right category is crucial because it determines the type of license you’ll need (commercial, professional, or industrial).
2. Select a Legal Structure
The most common structures include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Ideal for trading or commercial businesses.
- Sole Establishment – Suitable for professional services.
- Branch Office – For Indian companies looking to expand into Dubai.
Each structure has specific requirements for ownership, licensing, and documentation.
3. Reserve Your Trade Name
Your business name must meet the UAE’s naming guidelines. It can’t include offensive words or references to religion. MAF Businessmen Services helps ensure your chosen name is approved without delays.
4. Get Initial Approval
This is a green light from the Department of Economic Development (DED) to proceed with your company setup.
5. Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
If you’re forming an LLC, you’ll need an MOA that outlines ownership and profit-sharing arrangements. MAF’s legal team can draft this for you in compliance with UAE law.
6. Secure a Local Sponsor (If Required)
While many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, some sectors still require a local UAE national as a sponsor or service agent. MAF provides reliable sponsorship solutions for Indian entrepreneurs.
7. Lease Office Space
A mainland company requires a physical office location. MAF can guide you to affordable options that meet DED requirements.
8. Apply for Your Business License
Once your documents are ready, you can apply for the final trade license with the DED. MAF handles this process end-to-end, ensuring no step is missed.
9. Visa and Bank Account Setup
With your license approved, you can apply for investor visas, employee visas, and open a corporate bank account in Dubai. MAF assists with all related formalities.
Why Indian Citizens Prefer Dubai for Business
- Tax advantages – No personal income tax and low corporate tax rates.
- Global connectivity – Dubai’s ports and airports link directly to India’s major cities.
- Ease of doing business – A transparent regulatory framework and business-friendly policies.
- Investor-friendly reforms – The UAE government continuously updates rules to attract foreign investors, including Indians.
How MAF Businessmen Services Makes It Easy
Setting up a mainland company involves multiple government approvals, documentation, and compliance checks. MAF Businessmen Services simplifies the entire process.
Here’s what you get with MAF:
- Expert guidance on selecting the right business activity and structure.
- Complete documentation and PRO (Public Relations Officer) support.
- Fast trade license approvals without unnecessary delays.
- Assistance with visas, banking, and ongoing business compliance.
- Affordable packages designed specifically for Indian entrepreneurs.
Instead of navigating the complex setup process alone, MAF ensures every step is handled professionally, so you can focus on growing your business.
Dubai’s mainland business setup is one of the most rewarding paths for Indian entrepreneurs looking to expand internationally. With the right guidance, the process is straightforward, cost-effective, and future-proof.
MAF Businessmen Services is trusted by hundreds of business owners for making Dubai company formation simple and hassle-free. Whether you’re starting a small consultancy or planning a large trading business, their expertise ensures a smooth start.
Ready to start your mainland business in Dubai?
Contact MAF Businessmen Services today at [email protected] to get expert assistance and a tailored setup plan.