Starting a business in Dubai can feel like a dream, especially with its booming economy and strategic location at the crossroads of global markets. Among the various options available, the Dubai Mainland LLC (Limited Liability Company) license stands out for those who want to operate directly within the UAE market.
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, this license offers a lot of flexibility, control, and access to opportunities. With recent changes in ownership laws, you can now enjoy 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, making the Dubai Mainland LLC an even more attractive choice.
We will walk you through everything you need to know about setting up a Mainland LLC in Dubai—from its benefits and requirements to popular activities and pricing packages.
Dubai Mainland LLC License: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025
Dubai remains a leading global business hub, offering several pathways for entrepreneurs to set up their businesses. One of the most popular options for both local and foreign investors is the Dubai Mainland LLC (Limited Liability Company) license. The Dubai Mainland LLC structure offers numerous advantages for business owners, providing access to the UAE market, flexibility in operations, and tax benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Dubai Mainland LLC license, including its benefits, requirements, and some popular business activities you can pursue.
What Is a Dubai Mainland LLC License?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a company structure that allows entrepreneurs to establish their business within the UAE mainland. The LLC license enables businesses to operate anywhere within the UAE and engage with both private and government sectors.
Previously, a key characteristic of a Mainland LLC was the requirement for a local partner holding 51% of the company shares for foreign investors. However, recent reforms have introduced the possibility of 100% foreign ownership in mainland companies for certain business activities, opening up new opportunities for international entrepreneurs.
Key Features of a Dubai Mainland LLC:
Ownership: With recent reforms, foreign investors can now own 100% of their business in many sectors.
Number of Partners: Up to 50 partners can be part of the LLC structure.
Liability: Owners are only liable for the capital they invest in the company.
Scope of Activity: Businesses can engage in commercial, professional, and industrial activities.
Benefits of a Dubai Mainland LLC License
1. 100% Foreign Ownership (For Many Sectors)
Thanks to recent reforms, foreign entrepreneurs can now fully own their Mainland LLC in specific sectors such as technology, healthcare, e-commerce, consulting, and more. This gives you complete control over your business, with no need for a local partner.
2. Access to the UAE Market
A Dubai Mainland LLC license gives you full access to the UAE’s lucrative market. You can operate anywhere in the country, deal directly with government agencies, and even open branches in other Emirates.
3. Limited Liability Protection
LLCs provide limited liability to their shareholders, meaning personal assets are protected from business debts. The owners are only liable for the company’s debts up to the amount they invested.
4. Eligibility for Government Contracts
LLCs have the ability to bid for government contracts and engage in public sector projects—an opportunity not available to Freezone companies.
5. Visa Flexibility
An LLC can sponsor multiple visas for its employees, depending on the size of the office space. This provides excellent scalability for businesses that need to hire a team.
Limitations of a Dubai Mainland LLC License
1. Local Partner Requirement (for Some Sectors)
While 100% foreign ownership is now permitted in many sectors, there are still certain activities where a local sponsor (UAE national) must hold 51% of the shares. In these cases, the sponsor typically has no operational role and only receives a nominal fee for their legal responsibilities.
2. Office Space Requirements
To qualify for a Dubai Mainland LLC license, you are required to lease office space. This can increase initial costs, especially when compared to Freezone companies that offer co-working or flexi-desk solutions.
3. Regulatory Compliance
LLCs are subject to more regulatory oversight and compliance than Freezone entities, which may include yearly audits and submission of financial reports to the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Popular Business Activities Under a Dubai Mainland LLC License
A Dubai Mainland LLC license is available for a wide range of business activities. Thanks to the introduction of 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, here are some popular business types that entrepreneurs are setting up under this license:
| Activity Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Retail and Wholesale | E-commerce, trading, distribution |
| Consulting and Advisory | Business, marketing, HR, IT |
| Healthcare and Medical | Clinics, wellness centers, pharmacies |
| Construction & Real Estate | Property development, contracting |
| Manufacturing & Production | Textile, electronics, food & beverage |
| Technology & IT | Software development, IT support |
| Tourism and Hospitality | Travel agencies, tour operators |
With the relaxation of foreign ownership restrictions, business owners now have the freedom to explore a wider range of industries across the UAE.
Dubai Mainland LLC License Packages (2025)
Setting up a Dubai Mainland LLC involves a few more steps than Freezone setups, but it provides significant advantages in terms of market access and business growth. The cost depends on several factors, including business activity, office space, and visa requirements. Here’s an overview of typical Dubai Mainland LLC license package costs:
| Package Type | Estimated Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Basic LLC Package | 18,000 – 25,000 | License, local sponsor (if applicable), office space |
| Standard LLC Package | 25,000 – 40,000 | License, local sponsor (if applicable), office space, 2–3 visas |
| Premium LLC Package | 45,000 – 60,000 | License, local sponsor (if applicable), office space, 5–10 visas |
💡 Note: Prices may vary depending on factors like office location, business activity, and the specific services included in the package.
Final Thoughts
The Dubai Mainland LLC license offers tremendous opportunities for business owners seeking to establish a presence in the UAE. With the recent reforms allowing 100% foreign ownership for certain activities, this license is an increasingly popular choice for entrepreneurs from around the world. Whether you’re looking to tap into the local market, expand regionally, or access government contracts, an LLC provides the flexibility and protection needed for long-term growth.
If you are considering setting up a Mainland LLC in Dubai, be sure to consult with a local business setup advisor to ensure you meet all the legal requirements and take advantage of the most suitable license options.
