Make My Company

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Setting up a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland is simple when you have the right support. With Make My Company, you get expert help to handle licensing, legal steps, and complete ownership benefits. This means your company can operate freely in the UAE market without restrictions.

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Start your business in Abu Dhabi Mainland and tap into one of the UAE’s fastest-growing economies. As the capital city, Abu Dhabi plays a major role in the country’s economy, making up more than 60% of the UAE’s total GDP. With an economy worth around $500 billion and growing at a steady rate of 4-5% each year, it’s a prime location for businesses looking to expand or start fresh.

Abu Dhabi is rapidly shifting away from its reliance on oil, with over 60% of its GDP now coming from non-oil sectors. This opens doors for businesses in industries like technology, real estate, finance, healthcare, and renewable energy. With strong demand, easy access to capital, and a well-connected market, it’s an ideal spot for startups, SMEs, and large corporations.

At Make My Company, we handle every step of Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup. Our team ensures that the entire licensing process runs smoothly, from securing quick approvals to meeting all regulations set by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). Whether you’re starting a new venture or expanding, we help you register your mainland company in the easiest, most cost-effective way possible.

Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

How to Start a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland?

Thinking about starting a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland? It might seem complicated at first, but with the right help, it’s actually pretty simple. Abu Dhabi is a booming place for businesses, offering 100% foreign ownership in many industries and strong government support for entrepreneurs.

If you’re expanding, launching a startup, or opening a branch, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to complete your Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Registration. Knowing the process upfront makes everything smoother. Let’s break it down so you’re ready to move forward.

Guide to Setting Up a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Starting a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland gives you the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and beyond. Whether you’re launching a small business or a large corporation, the process is straightforward when done right. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the mainland company formation in Abu Dhabi.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

The first step is deciding what kind of business you want to run. Abu Dhabi Mainland offers a wide range of business activities, from trading and manufacturing to consultancy and professional services. Picking the right activity is important because it determines your business license type and any special approvals you might need.

Step 2: Select a Legal Structure

Your business structure affects ownership, liability, and how you operate. Abu Dhabi Mainland offers different options, such as:

  • Sole Establishment – For individuals running a professional business.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – A popular choice for most businesses.
  • Branch of a Foreign Company – If you’re expanding into Abu Dhabi.

Each structure has its own rules, and we help you pick the best fit for your business goals.

Step 3: Register Your Trade Name

Your business needs a unique trade name that follows Abu Dhabi’s guidelines. The name must:

  • Be different from existing companies.
  • Match your business activity.
  • Avoid restricted words related to religion or politics.

Once approved, your trade name is reserved for your company.

Step 4: Get Initial Approvals

Before applying for a mainland business license in Abu Dhabi, you need initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). This confirms that your business meets the basic legal and operational requirements.

If your business is in a regulated industry like healthcare, education, or finance, you may need extra approvals from government authorities.

Step 5: Secure an Office Space

Having a physical office is mandatory for Abu Dhabi Mainland company registration. You can choose from:

  • Shared office spaces for startups.
  • Dedicated offices for growing businesses.
  • Warehouses or industrial units for manufacturing or trading companies.

Your office lease agreement must be registered with Tawtheeq, Abu Dhabi’s tenancy contract system.

Step 6: Apply for Your Business License

Once approvals are in place, you can apply for a mainland business license in Abu Dhabi. The type of license depends on your activity:

  • Commercial License – For trading and general business activities.
  • Professional License – For consultancy, legal, or service-based businesses.
  • Industrial License – For manufacturing and production companies.

The license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), and once approved, you’re officially a registered business in Abu Dhabi Mainland.

Step 7: Get Visas & Labor Approvals

If you need visas for yourself and your employees, the next step is getting approvals from:

  • The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) – To register your company for labor-related matters.
  • The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – To apply for investor visas and employee visas.

The number of visas depends on your business size and office space.

Step 8: Open a Corporate Bank Account

To legally operate in the UAE, you’ll need a business bank account. Each bank has its own requirements, but common documents include:

  • Your trade license.
  • Passport copies of business owners and partners.
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA).

We help you find the right banking partner based on your needs.

Step 9: Register for VAT (If Required)

If your business meets the VAT threshold (AED 375,000 annual revenue), you must register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). This ensures compliance with UAE tax laws and helps you avoid penalties.

Step 10: Start Business Operations

Once everything is in place, your business is officially ready to launch! You can now:

  • Trade anywhere in the UAE.
  • Hire employees and expand your team.
  • Offer services to government and private sectors.

With the right setup, you’re ready to succeed in Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing economy.

Benefits of Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Setting up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi comes with many advantages. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, Abu Dhabi offers a stable economy, investor-friendly policies, and a strong business environment. Here’s why a mainland business license in Abu Dhabi is a great choice.

Freedom to Trade Anywhere in the UAE

With a mainland company in Abu Dhabi, you can do business across the UAE without restrictions. You can serve local clients, work with government entities, and expand without needing a local distributor.

100% Foreign Ownership in Many Sectors

The UAE now allows full foreign ownership in many industries, meaning you don’t need a local sponsor for Abu Dhabi mainland business setup. This gives you full control over your company.

Access to Government Contracts

Abu Dhabi is home to many government projects. With a mainland business license, your company can apply for government tenders and contracts, opening the door to huge business opportunities.

No Trade Restrictions

Unlike free zone companies, a mainland company lets you trade freely within Abu Dhabi and across the UAE. There are no import/export limitations within the local market.

Unlimited Business Activities

Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of business activities, including commercial, industrial, and professional services. Whether you’re in retail, consulting, healthcare, or construction, there’s an opportunity for you.

No Minimum Capital Requirement

Setting up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi is affordable. Many business activities don’t require a minimum capital investment, making it easier for startups and small businesses to get started.

More Visa Options & Office Flexibility

With an Abu Dhabi mainland company, you can apply for multiple investor and employee visas, depending on your business size. You also have more flexibility when choosing office space, whether it’s a virtual office, shared space, or a full corporate setup.

Strong Business Growth & Stability

Abu Dhabi is one of the most stable economies in the UAE. With a business-friendly environment, tax benefits, and world-class infrastructure, it’s the perfect place to start and grow your business.

Want to set up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi? We make the process simple. Get in touch today, and let’s get started!

Documents Required for Business Setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Setting up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi is simple if you have the right documents. Whether you’re starting a small business or a large corporation, having the correct paperwork ensures a smooth registration process. Here’s what you’ll need for Abu Dhabi Mainland company registration.

Every business owner, partner, or shareholder must provide a valid passport copy. This is required for identity verification and company records.

If you’re already in the UAE, you’ll need to submit a copy of your residence visa or latest entry stamp. This applies to business owners and partners setting up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi.

Your business must have a unique trade name that follows Abu Dhabi Mainland business setup regulations. Once approved, the Department of Economic Development (DED) issues a trade name reservation certificate.

Before registering your company, you must get initial approval from the DED in Abu Dhabi. This confirms that your business activity and structure comply with local laws.

The MOA outlines the ownership structure and operational rules of your business. It must be drafted and notarized to complete your mainland company formation in Abu Dhabi.

A physical office space is mandatory for all Abu Dhabi Mainland business setups. You must submit a tenancy contract (Ejari) as proof of your business address.

If a business owner or shareholder is employed in the UAE, they may need an NOC from their current employer to start a mainland business in Abu Dhabi.

If you’re opening a branch of an existing company, you need a board resolution from the parent company authorizing the new business setup.

Business Setup Cost in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Starting a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland comes with flexible costs, depending on the business activity, license type, and office space. The mainland company formation process is straightforward, but costs can vary based on requirements like government approvals, visa applications, and office rentals.

On average, the cost of Abu Dhabi Mainland company registration starts from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000. This includes the mainland business license in Abu Dhabi, trade name registration, and initial setup fees. If you need a physical office, expect higher costs, as office space is a requirement for certain business activities.

Other expenses include visa processing, PRO services, and regulatory approvals, which add to the overall cost. The good news is that Abu Dhabi Mainland business setup allows you to trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally, making it a great option for long-term business growth.

Need an exact quote? Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the most cost-effective way to set up your mainland company in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Mainland vs. Free Zone: Which is the Right Choice for Your Business?

Feature Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Abu Dhabi Free Zone Company
Ownership
100% foreign ownership (for most business activities)
100% foreign ownership
Business Market
Can trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally
Can only operate within the free zone and internationally
Mainland Business License Abu Dhabi Cost
Higher setup costs but more flexibility
Lower setup costs but restricted market access
Office Requirement
Must have a physical office in Abu Dhabi
Office space is optional (depends on the free zone)
Tax Benefits
Subject to UAE corporate tax
0% corporate tax in most free zones
Import & Export Duties
Standard UAE import/export duties apply
No customs duties within the free zone
Government Contracts
Eligible for UAE government tenders
Cannot apply for government contracts
Visa Quota
Unlimited visa eligibility (depends on office size)
Limited visas based on office package
Regulatory Authority
Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED)
Respective free zone authority
Banking & Financial Access
Easier access to UAE banks for corporate accounts
Some banks may have restrictions for free zone companies

Get Free Consultation

Launch Your Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland – Get Started Today!

Make My Company makes setting up a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland easy. We help you get quick approvals, follow UAE laws, and keep costs low. Ready to start? Get in touch today!

Got Questions? Contact Us

Scroll to Top