The Most Flexible & Popular Mainland Business Structure
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most common and versatile legal structure for businesses on the Dubai mainland. Our expert consultants streamline the entire LLC formation process with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Let's Talk
Free Consultation
What is a Dubai Mainland LLC?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a legal entity where the liability of its owners (shareholders) is limited to their investment in the company. It is the standard corporate structure for businesses involved in commercial and industrial activities on the UAE mainland.
Previously, a Dubai LLC required a local Emirati partner to hold 51% of the shares. However, under the new foreign ownership laws, you can now own 100% of your LLC for most activities. This makes it the most powerful and flexible option for a Dubai mainland company. It combines the benefit of limited liability with complete foreign ownership, all governed by a mainland trade license.
Why Form an LLC in Dubai?
100% Foreign Ownership
Maintain complete ownership and control of your commercial or industrial LLC without a local partner.
Limited Liability Protection
Protect your personal assets. The company's liabilities are separate from your own.
Unrestricted Market Access
Trade directly with the entire UAE market and bid for lucrative government contracts.
Multiple Shareholders
An LLC can be formed by a single individual or have up to 50 shareholders, offering structural flexibility.
Easy to Sponsor Employees
An LLC structure makes it straightforward to sponsor your employees and obtain their <Link href='/uae-employment-visa'>employment visas</Link>.
Credibility and Trust
An LLC is a globally recognized and respected corporate structure, enhancing your credibility with banks and partners.
Our Dubai LLC Formation Process
Consultation & Activity Approval
We confirm your chosen business activities are eligible for 100% foreign ownership under an LLC structure and advise on all requirements.
Name Reservation & Initial Approval
Our team secures your trade name and obtains the mandatory Initial Approval from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Drafting & Notarizing the MOA
We draft a comprehensive Memorandum of Association (MOA) that defines the ownership and management of your LLC and manage its notarization.
Secure Office & Tenancy Contract
We guide you in securing a valid tenancy contract (Ejari) for your physical office space, a mandatory step for all mainland LLCs.
License, Visas & Bank Account
Upon receiving your LLC license, our PRO services immediately kick in to process your Investor Visa and assist with your corporate bank account.
Client Feedback
Forming an LLC in Dubai seemed complex, but their team made it easy. They explained the 100% ownership rules clearly and handled all the legal paperwork, including the MOA. A highly professional and essential service.
David Lee, Managing Director, Innovate Trading LLC
Dubai LLC FAQs
Do I still need a local sponsor for an LLC?
For most commercial and industrial activities, you no longer need a local sponsor and can own 100% of the company. However, for certain strategic sectors, a local partner may still be required. We will confirm this during your consultation.
What is the difference between an LLC and a Professional License?
An LLC is for commercial/trading activities and provides limited liability. A Professional License is for service-based activities and is typically structured as a Sole Proprietorship or Civil Company, which does not offer limited liability. Professional licenses require a Local Service Agent, not a shareholder.
Is there a minimum share capital for a Dubai LLC?
No, the requirement for a minimum paid-up share capital has been removed for most LLCs. The capital is stated in your MOA, but you are not required to deposit it in a bank during the setup process.
Can a Free Zone company own an LLC?
Yes, a free zone company can act as a corporate shareholder and own a mainland LLC. This is a common structure for expanding operations from a free zone into the local market. Our mainland formation service can manage this process.
Form Your Dubai LLC with Confidence
Leverage the power and flexibility of a Limited Liability Company. Contact our mainland setup experts for a free consultation and a clear quote.
Your expert partner for company formation and corporate services in the UAE. We provide clear, efficient, and reliable solutions for entrepreneurs and businesses worldwide.
Copyright 2025 © Business Setup UAE - All Rights Reserved | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy