Dubai stands out as a leading destination for setting up and growing a business. Its strong economy, strategic location, and investor-friendly rules make it an attractive place to start a company. If you’re considering setting up a mainland company in Dubai, you’re making a smart choice. Mainland companies offer flexibility, wide market access, and unlimited business potential.
But first, it’s pleasant to know what types of business activities can be carried out under mainland licenses. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) has thousands of activities. But we will just mention the top 10 most sought-after business activities you can lawfully do under a mainland company formation in Dubai.
Let’s describe them in simple words.
1. General Trading
General trading is also a highly sought-after business activity. It enables you to import, export, and distribute all kinds of commodities in Dubai and overseas. You can trade different sorts of goods, such as electronics, apparel, furniture, and so on, with this license.
You can serve both B2C and B2B customers. Mainland companies are free to operate businesses in all Emirates and abroad. That is why general trading is a very ubiquitous business model.
Suitable for: Those businessmen who wish to import and trade more than one type of product.
2. Construction and Contracting
Dubai is developing at a very rapid pace, and the construction industry is always in demand. Mainland companies are allowed to establish civil construction firms and undertake mega projects. They can be the building of villas, commercial complexes, and roads.
You can also bid on government tenders under this license. It is not possible with free zone companies.
Best for: Engineers and companies venturing into UAE construction.
3. Restaurant and Cafeteria Operations
Food outlets thrive in Dubai. To open a restaurant, café, or food kiosk, a mainland license permits this. Approvals from Dubai Municipality and the food safety branch are also required, but the business model is well worth it.
Dubai is cosmopolitan in nature, so foreign food and quirky café ideas are most welcome.
Ideal for: Culinary aficionados, restaurateurs, or businessmen opening F&B businesses.
4. Real Estate Brokerage
One of the strongest industries in Dubai is real estate. Having a mainland company formation in Dubai will enable you to open up a real estate brokerage or property management company. You will need to become licensed with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), but once that is complete, the reward is immense.
You will be able to rent, sell, and exchange residential or commercial properties throughout Dubai.
Eligible for: Companies or individuals who are looking to enter the Dubai real estate market.
5. IT Services and Technology Solutions
It is technology in the midst of business today. Mainland licenses also cover other IT services such as software development, mobile app development, web development, and cybersecurity. IT companies can offer their services to customers within the UAE and even get government contracts.
This is cost-effective and suitable for small groups or personal tech entrepreneurs.
Best for: Software developers, IT consultants, and tech startups.
6. Consultancy Services
Most professionals like to establish consultancies in Dubai. You can start a consultancy business, marketing, HR, finance, law, or even educational services. To start a consultancy, you require appropriate qualifications or experience.
The best part is that you can service clients locally and globally with a mainland license.
Suitable for: Experienced professionals providing advice or consultancy of an expert nature.
7. E-commerce Business
E-commerce has developed extremely in the UAE. You can establish an e-commerce website and sell products or services online with a UAE mainland company formation. You can even integrate this with general trade or retailing activities.
You can have physical warehouses, employ delivery staff, or have alliances with logistic companies with a mainland license.
Best for: Startups opening online stores or mixed retailing models.
8. Beauty Salon and Spa
Residents of Dubai enjoy pampering and grooming themselves. A beauty salon, spa, or men’s grooming salon is a hot trend. You can have more than one outlet and employ foreign workers with a mainland license.
You will also require Dubai Municipality permits regarding hygiene and safety standards.
Suitable for: Beauty therapists and investors who work in the personal care industry.
9. Event Management
There are thousands of events taking place in Dubai annually—corporate events, weddings, and exhibitions. With an event management license under the mainland setup, you are free to organise and hold events throughout the UAE.
You can tie up with the government, private companies, hotels, and individuals.
Suitable for: Business-minded creatives who love organising events and experiences.
10. Logistics and Transport Services
Dubai is a logistics hub in the world. Cargo handling, courier services, warehousing, and freight forwarding services can be established by Mainland companies. This industry supports import and export businesses and online retailing.
You might require other permits from transport organisations, but the demand is huge.
Best suited for: Supply chain, delivery, or transport services businesses.
Why Choose Mainland Company Formation?
Having a mainland company in Dubai has several advantages:
- Access to the entire market across all Emirates and abroad.
- No restrictions on trading—you can trade with government and private customers.
- 100% foreign ownership for most industries (with new reforms).
- No visa limit based on office area.
- Capacity to set up offices anywhere in Dubai or in the UAE.
- All of these render the mainland option more flexible compared to free zones.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is a land of opportunity. With a mainland license, you get the freedom to operate your business without limits. Whether you are setting up a restaurant, a technology firm, or trading goods, there is a license designed just for your purpose.
Before selecting your activity, it would be advisable to employ the services of a business setup specialist. They will assist you in selecting the appropriate activity code, procure authorisations, and save time.
If you’re ready to explore mainland company formation in Dubai, expert support can make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Need help setting up your Dubai mainland business?
Visit Biz Design—your trusted partner for business formation, licensing, and all setup solutions in the UAE.