Setting up your business on the mainland of the UAE offers numerous advantages. Unlike free zones or offshore setups, establishing your company on the mainland provides easier accessibility, more business flexibility, and growth opportunities. Whether you’re in advertising, legal advisory, or another industry, being based on the mainland could benefit your business with a central location and more scalable growth.
Determine Commercial Activities
The first step is identifying the business activities you plan to undertake. Based on this, we’ll help you choose the most suitable company structure—such as a Sole Establishment, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or Private Limited Company.
Find a Local Sponsor
In the UAE, setting up a mainland business requires a Local Sponsor, who will legally own 51% of the company. However, this does not mean the sponsor takes 51% of the profits. Instead, a Sponsor Fee is agreed upon, which can be paid periodically or as a percentage of sales. The Local Sponsor can transfer full control to you through a Power of Attorney.
Legal Responsibilities
The Local Sponsor is responsible for the legal compliance of your business, but the level of involvement can be adjusted based on mutual agreement. Sponsors can be individuals or corporate entities, giving you flexibility in managing your business.
If you’re a professional offering services such as consulting or legal advice, a Local Service Agent (LSA) might be more suitable. Unlike a Local Partner, an LSA doesn’t own any part of your company but will still represent you in government matters. This setup is common for professionals like doctors, lawyers, or engineers setting up consulting firms.
At Synergy Auditing and Accounting, we match businesses with the right Local Sponsor or Local Service Agent. Our expert team is well-versed in UAE legislation and ensures a seamless setup process. We also offer auditing services, ensuring your company meets all compliance requirements, including mandatory annual audits for mainland companies.
Our Services Include:
Contact us today to start your mainland business journey in the UAE with Synergy Auditing and Accounting.