Definition
A mainland company is a business entity registered and licensed by the primary commercial regulatory authority of its jurisdiction, granting it the right to trade freely within the domestic market without geographic or client-type restrictions. Unlike entities formed in special economic zones, mainland companies face no limitations on conducting business with government bodies, local consumers, or other domestic enterprises.
UAE Context
In the UAE, mainland companies are licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the relevant emirate. Following the 2020 amendments to the Commercial Companies Law, 100 percent foreign ownership is permitted for most mainland business activities, eliminating the prior requirement for a 51 percent local partner in many sectors. Mainland companies may trade anywhere in the UAE, bid on government contracts, and sponsor an unlimited number of employee visas. Formation requires a physical office lease, trade name reservation, initial approval, and the appropriate commercial, professional, or industrial licence.
Key Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Licensing authority | Emirate Department of Economic Development (DED) |
| Foreign ownership | 100% permitted for most activities since 2020 |
| Market access | Unrestricted domestic and government trade |
| Visa sponsorship | Unlimited employee visas (space-dependent) |
| Requirements | Office lease, trade name, initial approval, trade licence |
Vision 2031 Relevance
Mainland company reforms are central to Vision 2031’s ease-of-doing-business agenda. Full foreign ownership, digital licensing portals, and streamlined formation processes aim to attract multinational enterprises and entrepreneurs, reinforcing the UAE’s position among the most competitive commercial environments globally.