A Dubai mainland visa, also known as an employment visa, allows individuals to work for companies registered under the UAE’s Department of Economic Development (DED) and operate freely across the mainland (outside of free zones) within the UAE. This visa is sponsored by the mainland company and processed through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Key aspects of a Dubai mainland visa:
- Company Sponsorship: The visa is sponsored by the mainland company employing the individual.
- Unlimited Geographical Scope: Mainland visas allow working anywhere in the UAE, including all seven emirates.
- DED Registration: Companies sponsoring these visas must be registered with the DED.
- MOHRE Processing: The visa application is processed through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Flexibility: Mainland companies have more flexibility in terms of visa quotas compared to free zones, based on business type, size, and MOHRE approvals.
- Two-Year Validity: The visa is typically valid for two years, requiring renewal after this period.
How to obtain a Dubai mainland visa:
Company Formation and Registration:
The first step is to establish and register a mainland company with the DED.
Initial Approval:
Obtain initial approval from the DED for the chosen business activity and legal structure.
Trade Name and Sponsor:
Choose a trade name and secure a local sponsor (51% ownership, but 100% ownership is now possible in some sectors).
Office Space:
Rent an office space, as the size of the office can affect the number of visas the company can obtain.
Memorandum of Association:
Sign the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and submit it with other documents to the DED for a business license.
Visa Application:
Apply for the employment visa through the company’s authorized representative.
Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID:
Complete the required medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID.
Visa Stamping:
The final step is visa stamping, typically processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Important considerations:
Investor Visa:
Business owners who have established a mainland company can also apply for an investor visa.
Access Approvals:
If someone needs to work temporarily at a mainland location but is not an employee, an access approval may be required.
Costs:
The cost of a mainland visa varies based on the type of visa and other factors, but it is generally more expensive than a free zone visa.
Renewal:
Mainland visas require renewal every two years, and the company must remain active to maintain the visa.
Where Quickplus Can Help
At Quickplus, we simplify the entire visa process from company formation and DED approvals to visa applications, medical testing, and Emirates ID registration. Whether you’re applying as an employee or an investor, our experts ensure a smooth and compliant process from start to finish, saving you time, effort, and costly delays.
