What is a mainland Dubai visa?

The mainland Dubai visa is one of the most popular types of business visa in Dubai (along with the free zone visa). Before completing a Dubai visa application, you’ll need to fulfil the following criteria:

  • Your company must be owned by yourself, and a UAE national.
  • Your UAE partner must own at least 51% of the company (to begin with).

The Dubai residence visa lets entrepreneurs set up a company in Dubai and enjoy access to the UAE’s main market. It’s also useful to note that your UAE sponsor can pass over the power of attorney completely to you, which means you can manage the business set-up without their input.

Your Dubai mainland visa is valid for two years, and after this time, you’ll need to renew it. The application process falls under UAE labour law, whereas the free zone visa is governed by its own set of laws.

Dubai visa requirements

How to obtain a Dubai residency visa

Getting a residency visa in Dubai can take a while, and this is especially the case if you try to obtain one without professional help. There are some crucial Dubai visa requirements, which we can assist you with. On average, anticipate the entire process to take two to three weeks maximum.

Dubai Residency Visa Requirements – A Step by Step Guide:

  1. Register. The first step is to register for E-Channel services. This enables us to complete your application online, and to keep within UAE government laws. Charterhouse Lombard can undertake this on your behalf.
  2. Get an entry permit. Next, we’ll need to apply for your entry permit; sometimes referred to as an employment visa. This is valid for 60 days.
  3. Get a medical test. Dubai’s government requires you to get a medical test before you can receive a mainland visa. This is usually straightforward, and you’ll receive the results within a few days.
  4. Apply for an Emirates ID card. Once you’ve completed the medical test, we can apply for an Emirates ID card. This includes taking your biometrics, fingerprints and retina scans. This card enables you to do a variety of things within the UAE, including opening a bank account.
  5. Receive your residence visa. Finally, you’ll be given your visa, which comes in the form of a stamp in your passport. Once you have your residence visa, you’ll be able to apply for a family visa, or visas for your employees.

Mainland Dubai Visa FAQs

How much does it cost?

There are a variety of fees involved with getting a Dubai residency visa; from the medical test, to processing fees for the ID card and the visa itself. For more information, get in touch with us today.

Which is better – a free zone visa, or a mainland visa?

This depends on the nature of your business, as both offer different benefits. Refer to our free zone visa page to make a comparison, or alternatively, get in touch with our team to learn more.

Why do I need a mainland visa in Dubai?

If you’re setting up a company in mainland Dubai, a visa is essential to access Dubai services such as banking, obtaining a driving licence and so forth. In addition to letting you set up a business, you’ll also be able to do other things, such as get a tenancy contract, obtain a driving licence and more.

Charterhouse Lombard – Dubai mainland visa experts

We have several years’ experience helping clients get their Dubai residency Visas. We can help with all aspects of the Dubai Visa Application and can also help you establishing a Dubai mainland company within the UAE. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with getting your enterprise up and running in this key business zone.