One must have thorough knowledge about the Dubai market to start a mainland business setup in Dubai. The mainland companies in UAE can do businesses in local as well as the international market without any restrictions. These companies are licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in every emirate. A series of approvals and paperwork are required in this process.
As per the UAE law, a local partner or local service agent is required for Dubai mainland business setup. The type of business that you are going to set up in Dubai mainland decides whether you need a local service agent or local sponsor. The company's 51% of the shares will be owned by the local sponsor itself and the rest is owned by the business owner. On the other hand, a local service agent doesn't hold any shares of the company but will act as a company representative in all administrative dealings with the UAE government. For mainland business setup in Dubai, the first step is to choose the right jurisdiction and business activity that will be economically beneficial for you.