Dubai Free-Zone to Mainland Permit 2025 | Maqased Businessmen Services
Introduction: A New Gateway for Free-Zone Businesses
Dubai’s latest 2025 reform allows companies established in free zones to operate directly on the mainland without setting up a separate mainland entity. This is a major step toward simplifying business expansion, cutting operational costs, and attracting more investors.
For entrepreneurs and investors, this change unlocks greater flexibility, wider market access, and improved scalability — and Maqased Businessmen Services is ready to guide you through every step.
What the New Rule Means for Your Business
Under the new regulation, free-zone companies can now apply for permission to operate in the mainland under several models:
- A branch licence under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
- A mainland operating permit while keeping the headquarters in the free zone.
- A temporary activity licence for short-term mainland projects.
This means businesses can now expand their reach to Dubai’s mainland customers and partners without opening a new mainland company, keeping the benefits of their free-zone registration.
Key highlights include:
- Direct mainland access for free-zone entities.
- Simplified documentation and fewer costs for expansion.
- Retained free-zone advantages, such as 100% ownership and streamlined procedures.
- More opportunities for SMEs and international investors to reach wider audiences.
How Maqased Helps You Leverage This Reform
At Maqased Businessmen Services, we ensure your business takes full advantage of Dubai’s new regulations. Our experts assist in:
✅ Free-zone selection — choosing the best zone that fits your future expansion goals.
✅ Branch or permit application — preparing, submitting, and managing all documentation and government approvals.
✅ Regulatory and tax compliance — guiding you through the UAE corporate tax implications and legal requirements.
✅ Operational setup — including visa processing, office solutions, and banking support.
✅ Strategic scalability — helping you design a flexible structure that supports long-term growth.
With Maqased, your transition from free zone to mainland is simple, legal, and stress-free.
Important Considerations & Conditions
Before expanding under the new rule, note the following:
- Not all business activities are eligible for direct mainland operation — certain sectors may still need additional permits.
- The timeline for approvals typically ranges from 2–6 weeks, depending on the type of activity.
- Income generated from mainland operations will generally be subject to UAE corporate tax (9% for profits above AED 375,000).
- Office or local presence requirements may apply depending on your licence type.
- Maintaining free-zone compliance remains essential to preserve benefits.
Why This Is a Timely Opportunity for Entrepreneurs
This reform is a golden opportunity for both existing businesses and new investors.
- Free-zone companies can now grow into new markets without duplicating setup costs.
- Startups and SMEs benefit from affordable entry to Dubai’s mainland economy.
- Foreign investors can maintain 100% ownership while enjoying access to Dubai’s broad customer base.
For Maqased clients, this is more than a rule change — it’s a strategic growth advantage that we’re already integrating into our business setup solutions.
Ready to Expand Your Business?
If you’re ready to expand your free-zone company into Dubai’s mainland or launch a new business with the mainland access option, Maqased Businessmen Services can help you get started today.
Our experienced team ensures a smooth, compliant, and cost-effective process — from licence structuring to documentation and approvals.
📞 Contact Maqased Businessmen Services today for a free consultation.
Let’s design your setup strategy aligned with Dubai’s latest business reforms and turn your vision into reality.
