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Accounting mainland companies
Operating a mainland company in the UAE offers the unparalleled advantage of trading directly with the local market and taking on government contracts. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of rigorous financial management. For many entrepreneurs, understanding the Dubai mainland company formation cost is the first hurdle while basic licenses can start around AED 12,000, a complete mainland company formation in Dubai including office space, visas, and legal fees typically ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 100,000.
Once the company setup in Dubai mainland is complete, maintaining accurate books becomes vital for renewing your license and meeting new corporate tax requirements. Professional Dubai mainland company setup services often include early accounting advice to ensure your records are bank-ready from day one. By investing in a proper mainland company setup in Dubai, you aren’t just paying for a license, you are building a compliant foundation that allows you to scale. Ultimately, a successful mainland company setup in Dubai depends on balancing these initial costs with a long-term
Dubai mainland company formation cost
Navigating the financial side of a business launch in Dubai requires a clear understanding of several moving parts. Generally, the total cost for setting up a mainland entity starts around AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 for basic professional services, while a commercial or trading license typically ranges between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000. These figures cover the trade license, initial approvals, and administrative fees. However, your final bill will vary based on your office rent, which is a mandatory requirement for mainland firms, and the number of employee visas you plan to sponsor. It’s also worth noting that while some sectors now allow 100% foreign ownership, certain activities might still involve costs related to a local service agent.
Mainland company formation in Dubai
At CBM Consultants, we provide professional accounting and bookkeeping services tailored to Mainland companies in the UAE. Our team ensures accurate financial record-keeping, timely preparation of financial statements, and full compliance with UAE regulatory and tax standards, including VAT and corporate tax.
We streamline your company’s financial management, enhance tax efficiency, and support sustainable business growth allowing mainland businesses to focus on operations and expansion with complete confidence.
Mainland company formation in Dubai
Choosing a mainland setup in Dubai is the gold standard for entrepreneurs who want to tap into the local UAE market without boundaries. Unlike free zone companies, which are often restricted to their specific zones or international trade, a mainland business is licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This gives you the freedom to open multiple branches across the city, bid for lucrative government contracts, and trade directly with consumers anywhere in the Emirates. It is the ideal choice for retail shops, restaurants, and large-scale industrial projects that require a physical presence and unrestricted operational flexibility.
Company setup in dubai mainland
The process of setting up a company on the mainland has become significantly more investor-friendly in recent years. The journey begins with selecting your business activities from a list of over 2,000 options and choosing a legal structure, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). One of the most critical steps is securing a physical workspace, you must have a registered tenancy contract to finalize your license. While the paperwork might seem daunting, the Invest in Dubai digital platform has streamlined the process, often allowing investors to secure their initial approvals and trade name reservations in a matter of hours.
Dubai mainland company setup
A successful mainland setup is all about strategic positioning. Since your business isn’t confined to a free zone, you can choose a location that puts you right in front of your target audience, whether that’s a high-end boutique in Jumeirah or a corporate office on Sheikh Zayed Road. Beyond the geography, a mainland setup allows for an unlimited visa quota, which is linked directly to the size of your office space. This scalability is a major draw for growing companies that need to hire a large team quickly. Additionally, mainland companies often find it easier to open corporate bank accounts with local UAE banks due to their transparent regulatory standing.
Mainland company setup Dubai
In the current economic climate, setting up on the mainland in Dubai offers a unique blend of traditional stability and modern incentives. While the UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 in 2023, the mainland remains highly competitive due to the absence of personal income tax and the ability to repatriate 100% of capital and profits. The setup involves several government touchpoints, including the DET and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). For many, the long-term benefits of brand credibility and the ability to work on any project within the country far outweigh the initial regulatory steps.
Mainland company setup in Dubai
Finalizing your business presence in the heart of the city requires a methodical approach to documentation. You will need to prepare your Memorandum of Association (MOA) and ensure all shareholder documents are correctly attested. If you are a foreign investor, the “Mainland” route is now more attractive than ever because the requirement for a 51% local Emirati shareholder has been waived for the vast majority of commercial activities. This means you can maintain full control over your operations and profits while enjoying the prestige and logistical advantages of being a fully-fledged Dubai-based enterprise.
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Business we serve
Accounting Mainland Companies
When you decide to open an accounting firm on the Dubai mainland, you aren’t just starting a business. You are securing a front-row seat to the financial heart of the Middle East. While free zones offer specific perks, a mainland setup gives you the unrestricted freedom to provide auditing, VAT consultancy, and bookkeeping services to clients across all seven Emirates and beyond.
In 2026, the demand for certified accountants has surged as businesses align with the UAE’s maturing tax regulations. Here is how you can establish your presence on the mainland professionally and efficiently.
Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
Choosing mainland company formation in Dubai is often the preferred route for accounting professionals who want to work with government entities and large mainland corporations. Unlike free zone entities, a mainland license allows you to rent office space anywhere in the city whether that’s a prestigious tower in Business Bay or a convenient hub in Deira.
Key benefits of going mainland include
You can trade directly with the local UAE market without a distributor or intermediary.
Your firm becomes eligible to bid for lucrative public sector contracts.
The number of employee visas is generally limited only by your office square footage.
Dubai Mainland Company Formation Cost
| Trade name reservation & initial approval | Cost Component Estimated Cost (AED) Details | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Trade name reservation & initial approval | 600 – 5,000 | Approval from Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism |
| Trade license fee | 10,000 – 40,000 | Depends on business activity and license type |
| Office space (Ejari – annual) | 12,000 – 60,000+ | Mandatory for mainland companies |
| Visa & Emirates ID (per person) | 3,000 – 7,000+ | Includes medical test and ID processing |
| PRO / documentation fees | 2,000 – 15,000 | Optional consultant or service provider charges |
| Basic setup cost (license only) | 15,000 – 35,000 | Without office and visas |
| Total first-year cost (approx.) | 45,000 – 120,000+ | Including office, visas, and setup costs |
Mainland Company Setup Dubai
The process for mainland company setup Dubai has been significantly streamlined. In 2026, many of the steps can be completed digitally through the “Invest in Dubai” platform.
- Select Business Activities: For an accounting firm, ensure your activities (e.g., “Accounting & Bookkeeping”) are precisely listed to avoid audit compliance issues later.
- Register a Trade Name: Choose a name that reflects your professional integrity while adhering to DED naming conventions.
- Secure an Office: A physical office with an Ejari (attested lease) is a mandatory requirement for mainland companies.
- Finalize Legal Documents: Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and, if necessary, the LSA agreement.
Dubai Mainland Company Setup: The Competitive Edge
When you opt for a Dubai mainland company setup, you are building an onshore legacy. This is particularly important for accounting firms because mainland status often makes opening a corporate bank account easier. Local bank’s view mainland firms as having high substance due to their physical presence and local registration, which can speed up your KYC (Know Your Customer) approvals.
Company Setup in Dubai Mainland
Executing a company setup in Dubai mainland requires navigating the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) requirements. For accountants, there is an added layer of professional responsibility. You must ensure your firm is ready for the UAE’s 2026 compliance landscape, including the latest E-invoicing and Corporate Tax filing standards.
Why Accounting Is Crucial for Mainland Companies
Accounting is more than a regulatory requirement for mainland companies. It provides insight into business performance, supports compliance with VAT and corporate tax laws, and builds trust with stakeholders. Outsourcing accounting services allows businesses to benefit from expert support while reducing internal workload and operational risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, if your documents are in order, you can receive your trade license in 7 to 14 days. However, setting up a corporate bank account can take an additional 4 to 8 weeks.
Typically, if your documents are in order, you can receive your trade license in 7 to 14 days. However, setting up a corporate bank account can take an additional 4 to 8 weeks.
Absolutely. One of the joys of a mainland license is the flexibility to move your office anywhere within the Emirate of Dubai as your firm grows, provided you update your Ejari and license details.
While you are an accounting firm, you must still maintain your own books in compliance with IFRS and UAE Corporate Tax laws. Depending on your legal structure, an external audit might be required for your annual license renewal.