HOW TO CONVERT A FREE ZONE COMPANY TO MAINLAND LLC IN DUBAI

How to Convert a Free Zone Company to Mainland LLC in Dubai

How to Convert a Free Zone Company to Mainland LLC in Dubai

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Converting a Free Zone company to a Mainland LLC in Dubai involves a well-structured process that requires legal compliance and proper documentation. Many businesses opt for this transition to access the broader UAE market, increase operational flexibility, and overcome limitations in the Free Zone. This guide walks you through the key steps, legal requirements, and costs involved in converting a Free Zone company into a Mainland LLC in Dubai, making your business setup more versatile and beneficial in the long run.

 

Running a Free Zone company in UAE, expanding business into the Mainland may be a natural next step. But, the process of converting from a Free Zone company to Mainland LLC involves several legal and operational changes. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the transition.


Mainland LLC allows businesses to operate outside the Free Zone and access a larger customer base within the UAE. Whether Business are located in Sharjah Free Zone, Fujairah Free Zone, or Meydan Free Zone, the transition to the Mainland opens doors to various business opportunities that are not available in Free Zones. This is why business setup in Dubai is an attractive option for many entrepreneurs.



Steps  for Converting a Free Zone Company to Mainland LLC


Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements


Before starting the process, know the legal steps for changing Free Zone businesses to Mainland LLCs. Businesses moving from Free Zones to the Mainland must follow UAE rules, paying attention to the conversion structure and licensing processes.

You will need to:



  • Dissolve the Free Zone license.

  • Start the process of getting your new mainland license from the DED authority.

  • You must meet local sponsor conditions to keep 51% of company shares in specific sectors.


Business setup consultants in Dubai can help avoid legal compliance issues.

Step 2: Prepare Your Business Structure


When forming an LLC on the Mainland, after running as a Free Zone business, check your business structure. A Dubai-based LLC allows ownership from two to fifty people while its owners remain protected up to their share value.

  • Review your current ownership structure. Due to local sponsorship rules, foreign ownership of 100% of a Free Zone entity must change during the Mainland transition.

  • Create the main components of the Memorandum of Association (MOA) for your future Mainland LLC.


Business Setup in UAE needs careful thought. This choice shapes how your business operates and how it can grow.

Step 3: Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC)


Getting the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Free Zone authority is the next step before moving to a Mainland LLC. To end a Free Zone license, you need a No Objection Certificate. This certificate starts your Mainland license application.

  • The Free Zone authority gives a No Objection Certificate to accept your business transfer from the Free Zone to the Mainland.


Step 4: Apply for a Mainland License


Next, you need to file your application for a Mainland business license. Do this through the Department of Economic Development (DED) after you get the NOC. This application will require:

  • Your new company name has to adhere to Department of Economic Development requirements.

  • Describe your future business activities based on your planned operations.

  • Your MOA and copyright documents must be submitted as documentation copies for the application.


Proper guidance makes a smooth business setup in Dubai possible. Talk to experts early to avoid license delays for your Mainland business.

Step 5: Register Your Business with the DED


A Mainland license application needs to be followed by DED business registration. This step includes:

  • Your office space needs to meet the requirements of the local Ejari system within Dubai, so you should sign a tenancy agreement.


Step 6: Fulfill Office Space and Compliance Requirements


The UAE requires all Mainland businesses to have a physical office. Unlike free zones, which may allow virtual offices, mainland companies must have a physical office to comply with the law.

  • Make sure your office space follows local rules. This includes Ejari registration, which shows your office lease is valid.


Step 7: Transfer Visas and Bank Accounts


Finally, you’ll need to:

  • Cancel your Free Zone employee visas and reissue them under your new Mainland company.

  • Open a Mainland corporate bank account (if applicable) to manage finances under the new business structure.


Costs Involved in the Conversion Process


The costs associated with converting a Free Zone company to a Mainland LLC can vary depending on several factors, including:

  • License fees with the DED.

  • Office rental and Ejari registration.

  • Local sponsorship fees (if applicable).

  • Visa cancellation and issuance costs.


Work with business setup consultants in Dubai. They can help you estimate costs and avoid hidden fees during conversion.

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