Masar Al Ameen Business Setup

Mainland Company Setup

Set up your
Abu Dhabi Mainland

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, stands out as an excellent location for launching a business. The Emirate has evolved into a premier hub for entrepreneurs, thanks to its thriving economy driven by oil production, real estate, industrial growth, and tourism. A key factor contributing to Abu Dhabi's appeal for investors and business owners is its streamlined and efficient business environment.
According to the World Bank’s Doing Business 2020 report, Abu Dhabi was recognized as one of the top performers in the region for ease of doing business. Its strategic location and diverse economy are making Abu Dhabi an increasingly popular choice for entrepreneurs.
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Advantages of Setting Up Your Business
Abu Dhabi

Low Company Setup Cost

The ease of doing business in Abu Dhabi is a significant draw for entrepreneurs and investors. Companies operating under the Abu Dhabi Mainland License benefit from not having any minimum share capital requirements and are also exempt from annual audits. However, it's important to note that there may be exceptions to these rules in certain jurisdictions.

Wider Scope of Business

With an Abu Dhabi Mainland License, you can conduct business activities throughout the UAE. This broader scope enables you to reach a larger customer base across the region, providing greater opportunities to boost your company’s profits and revenue.

Long Term License Validity

Unlike many other business locations, Abu Dhabi offers a commercial license with a 2-year validity. This extended term helps reduce both the costs and effort associated with annual license renewals.

Affordable Office Spaces

One of the most important aspects of starting a business is choosing your office space. In Abu Dhabi, you have the option to rent or lease office space at very affordable rates.

Tourism Sector Development

Abu Dhabi is renowned as a leading global tourist destination. The city hosts some of the largest commercial and sporting events, which significantly contribute to the growth of its tourism sector each year.

Ability to Work with Government Bodies

Companies holding an Abu Dhabi Mainland license are eligible to engage in government contracts. This allows your business to bid on various government-funded projects, potentially leading to increased revenue opportunities.

Repatriation of Capital and Profits

Mainland companies in Abu Dhabi benefit from the ability to repatriate 100% of their profits and capital without any restrictions. With an Abu Dhabi Mainland license, you also enjoy full ownership of your business and are exempt from income taxes. The only tax applicable is Value Added Tax (VAT), which is set at a rate of 5%.

Cost of Setting Up Your Company in Abu Dhabi Mainland

The cost of setting up an Abu Dhabi Mainland Company varies depending on the complexity of your business and the number of visa applications required. Masar Al Ameen Business Setup can provide you with various packages tailored to your specific business needs.

Receive an estimate of your business setup cost in the Abu Dhabi Mainland. Use our COST CALCULATOR now!

Types of Licenses Offered
in Abu Dhabi Mainland

With Abu Dhabi emerging as a prime location for business and tourism, it’s crucial to determine the specific business activities you plan to
pursue. Masar Al Ameen Business Setup can assist you in selecting the most suitable types of activities for your company.

Commercial License

This license allows a company to engage in a variety of business activities, including public trading, operating hospitals and clinics, construction, real estate, and other related sectors.

Occupational License

Issued for companies where individuals leverage their skills, expertise, and abilities to provide services to clients, this license covers professions such as law, accounting, and research firms.

Professional License

This license is issued to companies with employees engaged in specific crafts. It includes activities such as carpentry, steelwork, and other artisanal-related services.

Industrial License

This license is issued to companies intending to establish a manufacturing operation in Abu Dhabi.

Tourism License

This license is granted to entrepreneurs aiming to operate within the travel and tourism sector in the UAE, including hotels and travel agencies. It is issued by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Cultural Authority.

Agricultural License

These licenses are issued to companies involved in the agricultural, fisheries, and livestock sectors.

Types of Business Structures
in Abu Dhabi Mainland

Branch Office
A Branch Office serves as an extension of a company’s operations. It can be established by a foreign company or a UAE company within Abu Dhabi, functioning as the company’s regional headquarters. However, importing goods is only allowed through a local trading firm.
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Public Shareholding Company
A Public Joint Stock Company is a corporate entity with a minimum capital requirement of AED 10,000,000. Shares in this company are transferable and of equal value, with each shareholder's liability limited to their share in the company. During incorporation, the business name must not include the names of any partnering investors.
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Private Shareholding Company
A Private Joint Stock Company is established with a minimum of 3 shareholders and a capital requirement of AED 2,000,000. This type of legal entity is suitable for a wide range of industrial and commercial activities, as well as professional businesses.
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Joint Venture
In Abu Dhabi, a Joint Venture is an agreement between two or more individuals or legal entities. The objectives and terms of the joint venture are outlined in the joint venture contract. The joint venture must be conducted under the name of one of the UAE national partners.
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Limited Partnership
A Limited Partnership consists of one or more general partners who are jointly liable for all the partnership's debts and financial obligations. Limited partners, on the other hand, do not participate in management decisions and are not included in the partnership’s name.
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Sole Proprietorship
A Sole Proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual. This type of business structure can be established by individuals of any nationality, and foreign professionals are allowed to have 100% ownership of the business.
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Steps for Setting Up Your Company in Abu Dhabi Mainland

1

Determine the Nature of Business

The first and one of the most crucial steps in setting up a business in Abu Dhabi Mainland is selecting the appropriate trade license and company structure. Given that each type has specific requirements, it’s important to determine your business activity and legal structure in advance. The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) is responsible for issuing licenses for business registrations in Abu Dhabi.
2

Register Trade Name

Select the right and appropriate name for your company by adhering to specific guidelines. Masar Al Ameen Business Setup can provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you choose your trade name.
3

Get Approvals from Authorising Authorities

Once you have determined your business activity, company structure, and trade name, you can proceed to seek preliminary approvals from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.

Documents typically required for preliminary approval include:

– Approved trade name
– For foreign investors: Approval from the Department of Naturalization and Residence, along with valid passport copies
– Copy of Emirates ID (if applicable)
– No objection certificate

Our team at Masar Al Ameen Business Setup can assist you in gathering and submitting these documents, ensuring a faster and smoother approval process.

4

Licensing Approvals

After submitting all required documents and making the necessary payment, you can collect your trade license.
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