5 Key Steps to Setting Up a Business in Dubai Mainland

5 Jun 2023

5 Key Steps to Setting Up a Business in Dubai Mainland

If you’re looking to start a business in Dubai Mainland, there are several steps you need to take to ensure that your business is set up correctly. In this blog post, we’ll cover the 5 key steps to setting up a business in Dubai Mainland. 

 

Step 1: Choose a Business Activity and Legal Form 

 

The first step in setting up a business in Dubai Mainland is to choose the activity you want to engage in and the legal form for your company. Dubai Mainland allows a wide range of business activities to be conducted, from trading to manufacturing, professional services, and more. However, some activities require special licenses and permits from government authorities. 

 

Once you have chosen your business activity, you must determine your company’s legal form. There are several legal forms available in Dubai Mainland, including: 

 

  • Sole proprietorship 
  • Partnership 
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) 
  • Branch of a foreign company 

 

Each legal form has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on the nature of your business and your long-term goals. 

 

Step 2: Choose a Business Name and Obtain Initial Approval 

 

After choosing your business activity and legal form, the next step is to choose a business name and obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). The name should be unique and not already registered with the DED or any other government authority. It should also not violate any trademark laws or be offensive in any way. 

 

To obtain initial approval for your business name, you will need to submit an application to the DED, along with the necessary documents, such as your passport and residency visa. Once your business name is approved, you will receive a name reservation certificate that is valid for six months. 

 

Step 3: Obtain a Trade License 

 

The next step is to obtain a mainland license Dubai from the DED. A trade license is a legal document that allows you to conduct business activities in Dubai Mainland. The process of obtaining a trade license involves submitting an application to the DED, along with the necessary documents and Dubai Mainland license cost. 

 

Step 4: Register with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry 

 

Registering with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry is essential in setting up a business in Dubai Mainland. The Chamber is a non-profit organization that promotes business development in Dubai and provides a range of services to its members, including networking events, business support services, and advocacy. 

 

To register with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, you will need to submit an application and pay the necessary fees. Once you are a member, you will have access to a range of resources and services that can help you grow your business in Dubai Mainland. 

 

Step 5: Obtain Visas for Employees 

 

Finally, if you plan to hire employees for your business in Dubai Mainland, you must obtain visas for them. The visa process involves several steps, including obtaining a labor card, medical fitness certificate, and residency visa. The process can take several weeks, so it’s important to start the process as early as possible. 

 

Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these five key steps, you can ensure that your business is set up correctly and has the best chance of success. With the right preparation and a solid business plan, you can take advantage of the many opportunities available in Dubai Mainland and build a thriving business. 

 

About InstaCo 

 

At InstaCo, we’re passionate about helping entrepreneurs and businesses set up their operations in Dubai Mainland. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the local business landscape, we offer a range of services to ensure that our clients’ businesses are set up quickly and efficiently. From choosing the right legal form to obtaining trade licenses, we guide our clients every step of the way. We pride ourselves on providing personalized service and attention to detail to ensure that our clients’ businesses are set up for long-term success in Dubai Mainland. Contact us today to learn more about our business setup services

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