What types of companies can you set up in the UAE?

We handle mainland limited liability companies, all major free zone jurisdictions — DIFC, ADGM, DMCC, JAFZA, IFZA, and 40+ others — and offshore structures in RAK ICC and JAFZA. Our team advises on the right structure based on your activity, ownership requirements, and banking needs.

What is the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore?

Mainland companies can trade directly in the UAE market and hold government contracts. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and sector-specific licences but restrict direct mainland trading without a local distributor. Offshore structures are used for holding, asset protection, and international contracting — they cannot operate commercially in the UAE.

How long does the company formation process typically take?

Most mainland LLCs are incorporated within 7–14 working days. Free zone formations typically complete in 3–7 working days. Bank account approvals vary by institution — we coordinate all submissions in parallel to minimise total elapsed time.

Can I set up a UAE company without being physically present in Dubai?

Yes. For most free zone jurisdictions, the full formation can be completed remotely through notarised and apostilled documents. Certain mainland activities and some bank account openings may require a brief in-person visit, which our team coordinates to minimise disruption to your schedule.

Do you provide ongoing support after company registration?

Our engagements are structured as ongoing advisory relationships, not one-time transactions. Post-formation, we provide corporate tax compliance, VAT filing, annual audit, visa processing, and corporate secretarial services — all under one engagement team.

Mainland Trade Licence | Marhaban Group

A mainland trade licence is issued once your trade name is reserved, initial approval is granted, your memorandum of association is signed, and your office lease (Ejari) is registered.

Understanding mainland licence types

Commercial Licence

Suitable for: trading and retail businesses.
Key consideration: requires a physical location and Ejari registration.

Professional Licence

Suitable for: consultants and service providers.
Key consideration: often does not require share capital.

Industrial Licence

Suitable for: manufacturing and production businesses.
Key consideration: requires warehouse or industrial premises.

Which licence fits your business

Business need	Licence type	Office requirement
Selling physical goods	Commercial	Retail or warehouse space
Offering expert advice	Professional	Standard office
Manufacturing goods	Industrial	Industrial premises

Typical timeline

Trade name reservation and initial approval — 1–2 working days
Memorandum of association and lease registration — 2–3 working days
Licence issuance — 1–2 working days after final submission

Mainland vs Free Zone

Aspect	Mainland	Free Zone
Market access	Full UAE access	Zone and international
Office requirement	Mandatory	Often optional
Visa quota	Tied to office size	Tied to package

Total turnaround for most straightforward activities is around a week. Estimate your mainland licence cost to see current government and service fees.

Mainland Trade Licence