Mainland formation, start to finish
Name reservation, initial approval, MOA drafting and DED trade licence issuance managed as one sequence.
Business Setup
Business Setup
From activity selection to trade licence issuance, we structure your company for the market you actually intend to serve and keep it compliant year after year.
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How this practice area works
Choosing between a mainland licence and a free zone package is the first real decision in setting up a UAE company, and it shapes what activities you can perform, who you can contract with, and what visa allocation you receive, so it deserves more thought than picking whichever option is fastest to open. We start by understanding the market you actually intend to serve, then structure activity codes, shareholding and office requirements around that answer rather than a generic template. From name reservation and MOA drafting through Ejari and trade licence issuance, we manage the sequence end to end, and once the company is trading we keep licence renewals, establishment card processing and local sponsor arrangements on schedule so a lapsed licence never interrupts your operations.
What this desk handles
How the file moves
- We confirm the objective, list the documents required and quote government and service fees in writing.
- Your consultant prepares, types and submits the file, then follows it through each approval stage.
- You receive the outcome document, a copy for your records and a reminder before any renewal falls due.
Why clients use this desk
Free zone comparison, not a default
We compare relevant free zones against your activity and cost profile instead of routing every client to the same package.
Renewals never lapse
Trade licence renewal reminders and document collection are scheduled well ahead of the expiry date.
Protected sponsor arrangements
Local service agent and nominee arrangements are documented with side agreements that protect your operational control.
Frequently asked questions
Should my company be set up as mainland or free zone?
It depends on who you plan to sell to and where you need to operate. Mainland licences allow direct trading across the UAE without restriction, while free zones can offer cost or ownership advantages for activities that do not need a mainland presence. We assess your business plan before recommending either route.
What happens if my trade licence renewal is missed?
A lapsed licence can trigger fines and disrupt visa and banking processes. We flag renewals well before expiry and collect the required documents early so this never becomes a risk for clients on our renewal service.
How do you protect my business if I need a local sponsor?
Where a local service agent or nominee shareholder is required, we draft side agreements that clearly document operational control and limit the sponsor's role to what the law requires, reducing risk for the actual business owner.
How long does it take to open a new company in Dubai?
A straightforward free zone company can often be formed within a week once documents are ready. Mainland formation with specific approvals or larger shareholding structures generally takes longer, and we confirm a realistic timeline once we know your activity and structure.
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Bring us the file today.
Tell us the deadline and the document. We will tell you exactly what is required, what it costs and how long it takes, before you commit to anything.