Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Formation

Looking to start your business in the UAE? Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and its largest emirate, offers unmatched opportunities for global investors and entrepreneurs. With a strong economy, investor-friendly policies, and access to both regional and international markets, Abu Dhabi has become one of the fastest-growing business hubs in the world.

Whether you’re a startup, SME, or multinational corporation, setting up a mainland company in Abu Dhabi can give you the freedom, flexibility, and credibility your business needs to thrive.

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Why Choose Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Formation?

Abu Dhabi is not just about oil and gas — it’s a city leading the way in finance, tourism, technology, renewable energy, and real estate. Its sustainable development vision and government-backed initiatives make it an attractive hub for businesses of all sizes.

 

Key Benefits of Setting Up a Mainland Company in Abu Dhabi ?

  • ✅ 100% Foreign Ownership – No need for a local sponsor in most sectors.

     

  • ✅ Trade Anywhere in the UAE – No restrictions compared to free zones.

     

  • ✅ Government Contracts – Eligible for lucrative government and semi-government projects.

     

  • ✅ No Minimum Capital Requirement – Hassle-free entry.

     

  • ✅ Unlimited Visas – Sponsor as many employees as your office allows.

     

  • ✅Wide Range of Activities – Commercial, professional, and industrial licenses available.

     

     

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Step-by-Step Process for Abu Dhabi Mainland Business Setup

Choose Business Activity

Select your commercial or professional activity.

Reserve Trade Name

Register your unique business name with ADDED.

Get Initial Approval

Secure pre-approval to begin your setup.

Draft MOA

Prepare and notarize your Memorandum of Association.

Lease Office & Register Ejari –

 Choose the right office space for your business.

Apply for License

 Obtain your mainland business license in Abu Dhabi.

Regulatory Approvals

HT360 manages renewals, filings, and audits to keep your company in good standing.

Visa Processing –

 Apply for investor and employee visas.

Corporate Bank Account

Open a UAE business bank account.

Estimated Cost of Abu Dhabi Mainland Company Formation

Expense

Approximate Cost (AED)

Trade Name Reservation

620 – 720

Initial Approval

1,000 – 1,200

Business License

10,000 – 15,000

MOA Notarization

1,000 – 1,500

Office Rent

Starting from 15,000 / year

Investor Visa

3,500 – 4,500

Employee Visa

4,000 – 6,000

Total Estimated Setup Cost: from AED 25,000 – 35,000 (excluding rent & visas).

Mainland vs Free Zone: Which is Right for You?

Feature

Mainland Company

Free Zone Company

Ownership

100% foreign ownership

100% foreign ownership

Business Scope

Trade anywhere in UAE & internationally

Limited to Free Zone + overseas

Government Contracts

Eligible

Not eligible

Visa Quota

Unlimited (based on office size)

Limited (depends on package)

Setup Cost

Slightly higher (office required)

Often lower

Best For

Businesses targeting UAE market & growth

Export-focused or startups

How We Can Help You

We are a trusted business setup consultant in Abu Dhabi, offering:

  • End-to-end company formation services

  • Expert legal and PRO support

  • Assistance with visas and immigration

  • Guidance on bank account opening

  • Tailored advice for your business model

 

FAQ’s

The cost of forming a mainland company in Abu Dhabi typically starts from AED 25,000 – 35,000, excluding office rent and visa expenses. Final costs depend on your chosen activity, office space, and number of visas.

Yes. As per recent UAE business laws, 100% foreign ownership is allowed for most commercial and professional activities without requiring a local sponsor.

  • Mainland companies can trade anywhere in the UAE and qualify for government contracts.

  • Free zone companies are restricted to operating within the free zone and outside the UAE but offer lower setup costs and flexible packages.

 

      • Commercial License (trading and general business)

      • Professional License (services, consultancy, etc.)

      • Industrial License (manufacturing & industrial activities)

On average, the process takes 1–2 weeks, depending on activity approvals and documentation. With professional consultants, it can often be completed faster.

Yes, a physical office lease is required for mainland companies. Office size also determines the number of visas you can apply for.

 Yes. One of the key advantages of mainland setup is eligibility to bid for lucrative government and semi-government contracts.