Mainland Subsidiary / Foreign-Owned Company

For international corporations and foreign investors looking to expand in the UAE while maintaining operational independence, establishing a Mainland Subsidiary Company in Dubai is an ideal solution. A subsidiary allows a foreign company to create a legally separate entity that can carry out its own operations, hire local staff, and engage in regional business activities.

Unlike a branch office, a subsidiary has its own identity and can perform activities that differ from those of the parent company. This structure gives the flexibility of local incorporation while enjoying the credibility and network of an international organization.

What is a Mainland Subsidiary Company?

A Mainland Subsidiary is a limited liability company (LLC) formed by a foreign parent company in Dubai Mainland. It operates as a separate legal entity under the parent company’s ownership and is regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Key Benefits:

• Separate Legal Entity: Operates independently with its own trade license and bank accounts.
• 100% Foreign Ownership: Allowed in most sectors under UAE commercial law.
• Full Market Access: Can trade across the UAE and internationally.
• Flexible Business Activities: May differ from the parent company’s core services.
• Scalable: Easily expand operations and open multiple branches.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Determine Business Activity: Choose from DED-permitted activities.
2. Legal Structure and Ownership: Define shareholding pattern; typically, the parent company is the majority or sole owner.
3. Trade Name Approval: Reserve a name reflecting the nature of business.
4. Document Preparation: Parent company resolution, incorporation certificate, MOA, POA.
5. Initial Approvals: From the DED and other relevant bodies.
6. Office Space and Ejari: Secure a physical address.
7. License Issuance: After document submission and payment.
8. Visas and Staff Recruitment: Apply for labor cards and employee visas.
9. Open Corporate Bank Account: Operate independently.

Why StartormUAE?

• Expertise in foreign-owned entity incorporation
• Assistance with legal translation and document attestation
• Smooth licensing, visa, and banking support
• Ongoing compliance management

Get Started

Take your global brand to Dubai the right way with a Mainland Subsidiary. StartormUAE handles everything from compliance to setup.