1. Introduction
Starting a mainland company in Dubai is one of the best ways to access the UAE’s local and international markets. But before your business can officially operate, you must prepare and submit a set of mandatory documents to Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
While the process may seem complicated, having a clear checklist of what’s required can save you time, cost, and effort. This guide explains every document, purpose, and submission step you’ll need to successfully register your mainland company in 2025 — with insights from VeritasZone’s 8+ years of experience in UAE business setup.
2. Core Documents Required
Here’s the list of essential documents every investor needs to establish a mainland company in Dubai:
| Document Name | Purpose | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| Trade Name Reservation Certificate | Confirms your company name approval | Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) |
| Initial Approval Certificate | Confirms preliminary approval for business activity | DET |
| Memorandum of Association (MOA) | Defines shareholding and ownership structure | Notarized through Dubai Courts |
| Tenancy Contract (Ejari) | Proof of registered business address | RERA / Ejari System |
| Passport Copies | Identification of all shareholders and managers | Applicant |
| Emirates ID & Residence Visa (if applicable) | For UAE residents or local partners | ICA UAE |
| No Objection Certificate (NOC) | Required if the shareholder is employed in UAE | Current Employer |
| Business Activity Approval | Approval for regulated activities (if applicable) | Relevant Government Authority |
| Power of Attorney (if applicable) | Authorizes a representative to act on behalf | Notary Public |
3. Step-by-Step Document Submission Process
Reserve your trade name through DET’s online portal or VeritasZone’s consultant support.
- Apply for initial approval to confirm that your business activity is permitted.
- Draft and notarize the MOA and other legal documents (VeritasZone can help with Arabic translation and notarization).
- Secure a tenancy contract (Ejari) — required before your final license.
- Submit all documents with the DET application form.
- Pay the trade license fee and collect your Mainland Business License.
4. Activity-Specific Additional Documents
Depending on your business type, you may need to provide a few extra approvals:
- Restaurant / Food business – Dubai Municipality approval
- Education or training – KHDA approval
- Healthcare – DHA approval
- Real estate – RERA registration
- Financial services – UAE Central Bank approval
VeritasZone’s team ensures you meet all activity-specific compliance requirements before submission. read our guide how to start a business in dubai.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting unsigned MOA or missing Arabic translation
- Using unverified Ejari contracts
- Incorrect business activity codes in DET forms
- Delaying NOC from current employers (for expatriate investors)
- Overlooking attestation for foreign documents
Avoiding these common mistakes can prevent costly delays and rejections.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do all shareholders need to be in Dubai during company registration?
No. VeritasZone can assist with Power of Attorney setup so investors can authorize a local representative to handle registration remotely.
Q2: How long does document processing take?
Usually 3–5 working days, depending on activity and external approvals.
Q3: Are digital copies acceptable?
Yes, most submissions can be made through DET’s e-services with scanned documents.
Related Content:
Mainland vs Free Zone: Which Is Better for You in 2025?
Dubai Mainland License Cost in 2025
7. Conclusion
Having your documents properly prepared, attested, and organized is the foundation of a smooth Dubai mainland business setup. Every piece of paperwork — from your trade name reservation to your Ejari contract — plays a vital role in proving your company’s credibility, legal compliance, and readiness to operate within the UAE’s business ecosystem.
A complete and error-free documentation set not only ensures faster approval from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) but also gives your business a professional head start in the competitive UAE market. By avoiding common mistakes and securing the right approvals early, you’ll save both time and cost — and start your operations without unnecessary delays.
At VeritasZone, we take the hassle out of business setup — from document drafting to final licensing and beyond. Our consultants have helped hundreds of entrepreneurs navigate the UAE’s setup process with confidence and clarity.
