Start and operate your business across the UAE with a mainland company structure.
Overview
A mainland license, issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), lets you trade directly across the UAE and internationally with no restriction on business location. SUKOON handles activity selection, trade name reservation, initial approval, MOA drafting, and license issuance from start to finish.
Eligibility
Available to most nationalities. Certain activities require a local service agent or specific approvals.
Required Documents
Passport copies, entry permit or visa page, passport-size photos, initial approval application, MOA/LSA agreement where applicable.
Process
Consultation and activity selection; trade name reservation; initial approval; MOA/lease agreement; license issuance.
Approximate processing time:
3–7 working days after documentation is complete
Subject to applicable UAE regulations and authority approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Timelines vary by structure and completeness of documentation. Free zone and mainland licenses are typically issued within 3–7 working days once all required documents are submitted.
A mainland license allows direct trading anywhere in the UAE, while a free zone license operates within a specific free zone framework with its own regulations. SUKOON can help you compare both against your business activity.
Yes. Most business activities allow 100% foreign ownership in both mainland and free zone structures, subject to applicable UAE regulations.
In most cases, company owners and eligible employees can apply for a UAE residence visa linked to the company license, subject to authority approval.
Yes. SUKOON helps prepare your documentation and introduces you to suitable banking partners. Account opening is subject to the bank's own approval process.
