DMCC Business Setup 2026: The Complete Guide
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, known universally as DMCC, is a Government of Dubai authority and the world’s most dynamic free zone. Established in 2002 with a mission to grow Dubai’s position as a global hub for commodities trade and enterprise, DMCC is home to over 26,000 member companies from 180 countries and has been named the Global Free Zone of the Year by the Financial Times’ fDi magazine for nine consecutive years. If you are considering setting up a business in a Dubai free zone, DMCC consistently sits at the top of most shortlists.
The free zone spans the world-class mixed-use districts of Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) and Uptown Dubai, offering everything from flexi desks for solo founders to multi-storey offices for large enterprises. According to the official DMCC business setup pages, DMCC supports over 1,000 approved business activities across 20 sectors, covering commodities trading, technology, crypto, AI, financial services, energy and much more. The setup process is fully digital and can be completed remotely from anywhere in the world in approximately 10 working days.
This guide draws directly from official DMCC sources to give you an accurate, up-to-date picture of what it costs, what is required and how the process works. Whether you are a foreign entrepreneur, a UAE resident looking to branch out, or a large corporate seeking a regional hub, you will find everything you need here.
What is DMCC and who regulates it?
DMCC is a Government of Dubai authority established under Law No. 9 of 2002, tasked with building Dubai into a global hub for commodity trade and enterprise. According to the official DMCC about page, the organisation today accounts for 15% of all foreign direct investment in the emirate and directly oversees the world-class business districts of Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Uptown Dubai.
Who established DMCC and what is its mission?
DMCC was established in 2002 by the Government of Dubai with a clear mandate: to grow Dubai’s position as a global gateway for commodity trade flows from the Middle East and beyond. The authority is led by Executive Chairman and CEO Ahmed Bin Sulayem, who has overseen DMCC’s growth from a start-up of 28 member companies in 2003 to a free zone community of over 26,000 businesses from 180 countries, employing more than 90,000 people.
As confirmed on the DMCC corporate tax information page, DMCC is a geographically designated and defined area in the UAE for the purposes of the UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on Taxation of Corporations and Businesses). This status means that companies operating within the free zone can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income.
What is DMCC’s track record as a global free zone?
According to the DMCC about page, the free zone has been named the Global Free Zone of the Year by the Financial Times’ fDi magazine for nine consecutive years running. In 2024, DMCC was also awarded the title of Number One Global Knowledge Zone by fDi magazine for two years in a row. These recognitions reflect DMCC’s standing not just within the UAE but as a world-class business destination that competes with the leading free zones globally.
The free zone is home to over 26,000 member companies representing 180 countries. Combined with 87 residential and commercial towers and over 600 retail and food and beverage outlets, JLT and Uptown Dubai together accommodate over 100,000 working professionals, residents and visitors.
Where is DMCC located and what areas does it cover?
DMCC’s primary district is Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), a large mixed-use development in Dubai divided into alphabetically assigned clusters, each with its own character and function. JLT is served by two Dubai Metro stations and has excellent connectivity to Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. The second district under DMCC’s remit is Uptown Dubai, a newer landmark development featuring the 340-metre Uptown Tower, the SO/ Uptown Dubai hotel, ultra-modern residences and premium office space. Both districts fall within the geographically defined DMCC free zone boundary.
What types of business activities and licences are available in DMCC?
DMCC offers more than 1,000 approved business activities across 20 sectors, making it one of the most diverse free zones in the UAE. There are four distinct licence types, and the activity you choose will determine which licence category applies to your business.
What business activities are permitted in DMCC?
According to the official DMCC licences guide, approved activities span the following broad categories:
- Trading and general commerce, including textiles, consumer goods, electronics and general trading
- Commodities and resources, covering precious metals, diamonds, energy and agricultural commodities
- Professional and consultancy services, including management consultancy, financial advisory and marketing
- Technology and innovation, covering software development, AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and IT services
- Crypto and Web3, including virtual asset services and blockchain-based activities (subject to regulatory approvals)
- Logistics and transportation, including shipping, freight and supply chain services
- Food and beverage, including restaurants, cafes and food trading businesses
- Healthcare and medical trading, including medical equipment and pharmaceutical-related activities
A full downloadable list of all approved activities is available on the DMCC website. Some activities are grouped under specific industry ecosystems such as the DMCC Gold Ecosystem, DMCC Crypto Centre and DMCC AI Centre.
What are the four types of DMCC business licence?
As confirmed on DMCC’s official licences guide, there are four main licence types:
| Licence Type | Who It Is For | Typical Activities |
| Service Licence | Businesses providing professional or consultancy services | IT services, advisory, management consultancy, specialised expertise |
| Trading Licence | Businesses importing, exporting, distributing or selling goods | General trading, commodity trading, product distribution |
| Commercial Licence | Businesses buying and selling across multiple product categories | Broader trading under one licence spanning several product lines |
| Industrial Licence | Businesses engaged in manufacturing or transformation of materials | Gold and precious metals processing, food manufacturing, industrial production |
How do I choose the right business activity for my company?
Your chosen activity defines what your business is legally permitted to do. It also determines your licence type and any regulatory requirements. DMCC recommends the following approach, as outlined in its official guidance:
- Define your core business model: identify your primary revenue-generating activity.
- Align with a licence category: each activity falls under one of the four licence types above.
- Understand regulatory requirements: certain sectors involve additional compliance steps.
- Evaluate operational needs: manufacturing and logistics activities may require specific facilities or infrastructure.
DMCC’s online Business Setup Wizard at start.dmcc.ae can help you identify the most suitable activity and package for your specific requirements.
Which business activities require special third-party approval?
Most activities can be approved directly through DMCC. However, certain regulated sectors require additional approvals from external authorities. According to the official DMCC licences guide, these include financial services and investment activities, crypto and virtual asset-related activities, healthcare and medical services, and oil, gas and energy-related activities. You should verify all regulatory requirements with the relevant authority before submitting your application.
Find the Right DMCC Licence for Your Business
Not sure which licence type fits your activity? Our specialists will match you to the right option in minutes.
What are the steps to set up a company in DMCC?
Setting up a company in DMCC is a fully digital process that can be completed remotely from anywhere in the world. According to the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, the entire process typically takes around 10 working days, depending on the completeness of your documentation.
What are the three types of DMCC company formation?
DMCC allows three types of company formation, each with specific documentation and approval requirements, as confirmed on the official DMCC set-up-a-new-business page:
- Individual formation: a new company set up by one or more individuals, with no existing parent company. At least one shareholder is required.
- Subsidiary formation: a company formed by an existing corporate entity (the parent), which holds shares in the new DMCC entity.
- Branch formation: a branch of an existing company established to conduct business within the DMCC free zone.
In all cases, a Free Zone Company (FZCO) requires at least one shareholder, who can be an individual or a corporate entity. One person can hold both the director and company secretary roles simultaneously.
What are the four steps to register a company in DMCC?
According to the DMCC licences guide and the set-up-a-new-business page, the registration process follows four distinct stages:
- Discover: use the DMCC Business Setup Wizard at start.dmcc.ae to identify your business activity, company structure and preferred package. A DMCC representative will provide access to your unique online portal account.
- Process: log in to the DMCC portal and submit your online pre-approval application. DMCC will process your company name reservation, carry out a management review and complete compliance approval.
- Pay, sign and submit: pay the registration and licence fees through the portal and sign all legal documents electronically. DMCC will issue a Provisional Approval along with Bank Introductory Letters, which you can use to begin office leasing and bank account opening.
- Launch: sign and submit the documents for your chosen office solution. DMCC will issue your E-licence electronically. The E-licence is typically issued within two to three working days of completing all documentation.
How long does DMCC company registration take?
According to the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, the company registration process typically takes around 10 working days from start to finish, depending on the completeness of the documentation provided. The fully digital process means there is no need to visit a DMCC office in person at any stage of registration. If you subsequently apply for a UAE residence visa through your DMCC company, you will need to visit the UAE in person to complete the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometric registration.
What documents are required to register a company in DMCC?
The documents required for a DMCC company registration are confirmed on the official DMCC set-up-a-new-business page and the DMCC licences guide. Requirements vary depending on whether you are forming an individual company, a subsidiary or a branch.
What identification documents are required for a DMCC application?
- Passport copy for each shareholder, director, authorised signatory and company secretary.
- UAE residence visa and a copy of the Emirates ID, if the applicant is a UAE resident.
- Proof of residential address in the applicant’s country of residence, such as a current dated utility bill or bank statement.
What company ownership documents are required?
- Shareholding structure or corporate ownership chart.
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) for the new entity.
- Parent or group company documents, if forming a subsidiary or branch.
- Third-party approvals from relevant authorities, for certain regulated business activities.
- Bank reference or capital deposit confirmation, required at the appropriate stage.
- Office lease or property documents for the company’s registered address within DMCC.
What are the UBO disclosure and AML/CFT requirements for DMCC companies?
As stated on the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, all DMCC-registered companies must provide and maintain Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) information in line with UAE AML/CFT (anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism) regulations. This means disclosing valid supporting documents for any individual who holds 25% or more of the ownership or control of the company. UBO records must be updated whenever changes to the ownership structure occur.
DMCC has published detailed guidance on KYC and UBO requirements, available through the DMCC Member Portal and the DMCC help centre at dmccsf.my.site.com. Non-compliance with UBO requirements can result in licence suspension.
Start Your DMCC Application with Confidence
We handle the paperwork from document preparation to UBO compliance and licence submission.
What are the government fees and setup costs for a DMCC company?
Total initial setup costs at DMCC range from AED 10,345 to AED 84,515 (approx. USD 2,817 to USD 23,025), depending on the package, licence type and office solution you choose. According to the official DMCC business setup packages page, the annual business licence cost ranges from approximately AED 20,000 to AED 50,000, with the exact figure depending on your business activity and licence category.
What do the DMCC business setup packages cost?
DMCC offers a range of named packages designed for different business profiles. The figures below are sourced directly from the DMCC business setup packages page and reflect pricing as at May 2026.
| Package | Price (AED) | USD Approx. | Suited For |
| Basic Biz Package | AED 35,484 | USD 9,665 | Sole traders, individual shareholders, entry-level startups |
| Jump Start Package | AED 43,780 | USD 11,924 | Startups and SMEs needing flexi desk or co-working (includes 1 visa) |
| Prime Plus Package | AED 40,145 | USD 10,934 | Medium and large businesses needing fast-track setup |
| JLT Resident Package | AED 29,205 | USD 7,954 | Existing JLT residents |
| Uptown Homeowners Package | Free | Free | Uptown Dubai property owners |
| Crypto / AI / Gaming Centre | AED 31,000 | USD 8,443 | Crypto, AI, gaming and Web3 businesses |
| Nook Package | AED 10,345 | USD 2,817 | Health and fitness professionals |
| AstroLabs Package | AED 1,925 | USD 524 | Tech startups via AstroLabs accelerator |
Package prices include the DMCC company licence and, where stated, an establishment card and visa allocation. Additional services such as extra visas, additional business activities and office upgrades may incur separate fees. Refer to DMCC’s current schedule of charges at dmcc.ae/members/support/schedule-charges for the most up-to-date breakdown.
What is the annual DMCC business licence fee?
According to the official DMCC licences guide, you can expect annual business licence costs to range from approximately AED 20,000 to AED 50,000. The exact figure depends on your licence type (service, trading, commercial or industrial) and the specific activities listed on your licence. Renewal packages are available through the DMCC members area: the Basic Flexi Package starts from AED 35,564 per year and the Flexi Boost Package starts from AED 43,720 per year.
Are multi-year licence options available in DMCC?
Yes. DMCC offers licences with one, two and three year validity periods. Multi-year options deliver savings on the total licence cost, and DMCC also offers extended licence renewals of up to five years for eligible companies. According to the DMCC licence renewal packages page, the Prime Business Package for medium and large businesses is priced at AED 76,140 for a three-year term, compared to the standard annual rate.
What is the minimum share capital requirement for a DMCC company?
According to the official DMCC licences guide, the minimum share capital requirement for a DMCC company is typically AED 50,000 (approximately USD 13,612). The exact figure may vary depending on the specific business activity. This capital must be deposited in the company’s UAE bank account within three weeks of the licence issuance date. After that initial deposit, the funds can be withdrawn and used for business purposes.
There is no requirement to maintain a minimum balance once the initial deposit has been made and verified. Companies operating in regulated sectors such as financial services may be subject to higher capital requirements imposed by the relevant external regulator, over and above DMCC’s own requirement. Always verify the capital requirements for your specific activity with DMCC and any applicable external regulator before proceeding.
Plan Your DMCC Costs Before You Commit
Get a transparent breakdown of fees, share capital requirements and visa costs tailored to your business.
How many visas can I get with a DMCC licence?
The number of visas your DMCC company can apply for is directly linked to your choice of office solution within the free zone, as confirmed on the DMCC value-added services page and the DMCC licences guide.
What is the visa quota for flexi-desk and co-working space holders?
Companies on a standard flexi desk are typically eligible for one to three UAE residency visas. The Jump Start Package includes a standard flexi desk eligible for three residency visas, with one visa included in the package price as standard. The Basic Biz Package includes a special flexi desk eligible for one residency visa. If you need to expand your headcount beyond your current visa quota, you can request an increase through the DMCC Member Portal or upgrade your office solution.
What is the visa quota for private office holders?
If you lease a private office within JLT or Uptown Dubai, the general rule is one residency visa per nine square metres of office space, as confirmed in DMCC’s official licence FAQ. Certain offices within DMCC’s own property portfolio have specific visa entitlements: Almas Tower serviced offices allow up to six visas per office, and Jewellery and Gemplex offices allow up to five visas per office, as stated on the DMCC property portfolio page. Business centres throughout the community offer monthly rental fees starting from AED 4,000.
What types of UAE visa can DMCC companies apply for?
According to DMCC’s visa services information, every DMCC-licensed company is eligible for four types of UAE visa:
- Employment visa: for staff employed by the DMCC company.
- Partner or investor visa: for shareholders and business owners.
- Business visit visa: for short-term business visitors.
- Student visit visa: for dependants studying in the UAE.
DMCC also facilitates access to UAE long-term visas (10-year Golden Visa) for eligible investors, partners and senior executives through the NOC for 10-year visa service available on the DMCC Member Portal, as detailed on the value-added services page.
What facilities and office options are available in DMCC?
According to the DMCC property portfolio page, the free zone’s 87 high-rise towers across JLT and Uptown Dubai house a wide range of commercial office solutions for companies of all sizes, from part-time flexi desks for solo founders to multi-storey offices for large enterprises.
What flexi desk and co-working options are available in DMCC?
For companies with smaller teams or those in the early stages of growth, DMCC offers several flexible workspace options, as detailed on the property portfolio page:
- Flexi desk: a part-time workspace solution that provides your business with a full-time physical address and access to essential business services on demand. Typically eligible for one visa.
- Serviced desk: a full-time dedicated workspace for businesses with resident employees, with access to shared amenities.
- Uptown Dubai Business Centre: a smart co-working hub inside Uptown Tower, featuring dynamic meeting spaces, phone booths, an in-house cafe, high-speed internet and valet parking. Home to the DMCC Crypto Centre, DMCC Gaming Centre and DMCC AI Centre.
- DMCC Coworking Centre: located in JLT opposite JLT Park, offering isolated cubicles, collaborative desks and concentration zones, with complimentary high-speed internet.
- Nook: a 10,000 sq ft co-working space dedicated to the health and fitness industry, featuring DMCC licensing, networking events and training workshops.
What serviced offices and business centres does DMCC offer?
DMCC’s serviced offices range from 215 sq ft to 279 sq ft and are fully furnished and ready for immediate occupancy. Business Centres throughout the DMCC community offer office space ranging from 100 sq ft to 500 sq ft, with monthly rental fees starting from AED 4,000, including dedicated telephone lines, high-speed internet and fully equipped meeting rooms, as confirmed on the property portfolio page.
What high-rise office options are available in JLT and Uptown Dubai?
For companies seeking a premium address, DMCC’s property portfolio includes several landmark options, as listed on the official property portfolio page:
- Almas Tower, Level 49: premium offices from 88.26 to 323.46 sq ft, with annual rents starting at AED 78,000. DEWA, Empower and service charges are included. Up to six residency visas per office.
- Jewellery and Gemplex: a 12-storey multi-tower commercial complex in JLT offering fully fitted offices with rents starting from AED 38,250. Up to five residency visas per office.
- Gold Tower and Silver Tower: 37-storey towers with flexible office space, valet parking and 10 high-speed passenger lifts.
- One JLT: a 14-storey LEED Gold Standard-certified office tower with 4.1-metre floor-to-floor height and 48 parking spaces per leased floor.
- Uptown Tower: a 340-metre, 81-storey supertall with premium commercial space and smart infrastructure, home to the DMCC ecosystem centres.
- DMCC Luxury Innovation Centre: located on Level 48 of Almas Tower, a co-working and private office venue dedicated to luxury brands, fine jewellery and lifestyle businesses.
DMCC members also receive exclusive access to warehousing solutions in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) through a strategic partnership, making it possible to combine free zone licensing with physical logistics and storage capacity.
Find the Perfect DMCC Office for Your Team
From flexi desks to premium towers in JLT, we'll help you choose the workspace that fits your headcount and budget.
What are the key benefits of setting up in DMCC?
DMCC is designed to help businesses thrive. The following benefits are confirmed across official DMCC pages, including the set-up-a-new-business page, the about page and the value-added services page.
Does DMCC allow 100% foreign ownership and capital repatriation?
Yes. All DMCC-registered companies benefit from 100% foreign ownership, meaning there is no requirement for a UAE national partner or sponsor. Companies also benefit from 100% repatriation of both capital and profits, so you can move your business income out of the UAE without restriction.
What is the corporate tax position for DMCC companies?
DMCC is a qualified free zone under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on Taxation of Corporations and Businesses. As confirmed on the DMCC corporate tax page, companies operating within DMCC can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income. Income that falls outside the qualifying income definition may be subject to the standard UAE corporate tax rate of 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000, as set by the UAE Federal Tax Authority.
DMCC companies and their employees also benefit from 0% personal income tax, as the UAE does not impose personal income tax on individuals.
How does the DMCC ecosystem model benefit member companies?
One of DMCC’s most distinctive features is its system of 20 dedicated industry ecosystems, each providing sector-specific communities, infrastructure, events and connections. As stated on the DMCC ecosystems page, current ecosystems include:
- Gold, Diamonds, Lab-grown Diamonds and Coloured Gemstones
- Energy, Water and Sustainability
- Tech, AI, Gaming and Crypto/Blockchain
- Agro, Tea, Coffee and Cacao
- E-commerce, Maritime, Financial Services and the DMCC Wealth Hub
Each ecosystem provides members with access to dedicated co-working facilities, funding opportunities, mentoring programmes, alumni networks and priority access to industry networking events.
What is the DMCC Business Rewards loyalty programme?
According to the DMCC business rewards page, DMCC operates a loyalty programme that allows member companies to earn points on licensing fees, renewals and a range of DMCC services. Points accumulate across three tiers (Silver, Gold and Platinum), with higher tiers unlocking greater rewards and privileges. This makes DMCC one of the few free zones that actively rewards long-term member companies for their continued business.
Are there any unique advantages or incentives at DMCC?
Several features distinguish DMCC from other UAE free zones and make it particularly attractive to specific business profiles.
How does DMCC’s fully digital setup process work?
DMCC was among the first UAE free zones to offer a fully digital, paperless company formation process. As confirmed on the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, the entire registration can be completed online through the DMCC portal. Applicants reserve a company name, upload KYC documents, verify identity, sign legal documents electronically and make all payments through the secure portal. The E-licence is issued digitally. This means a business can be incorporated in DMCC without the founder ever setting foot in Dubai, which is a meaningful advantage for international entrepreneurs.
DMCC also offers a Business Setup Wizard at start.dmcc.ae that generates a tailored package proposal based on your specific licensing requirements, covering the relevant process, requirements and costs.
What are the DMCC Crypto Centre, AI Centre and Gaming Centre?
Three of DMCC’s specialist ecosystem centres are particularly noteworthy for businesses in fast-growing digital sectors. As detailed on the DMCC ecosystems pages:
- DMCC Crypto Centre: launched in 2021, it provides co-working space, community access, funding and mentoring for crypto and Web3 businesses, with a dedicated package at AED 31,000 including a 50% discount on second-year renewal fees.
- DMCC AI Centre: launched in 2024, it offers co-working space in Uptown Tower with access to quiet zones, meeting rooms, an auditorium and high-speed internet, also at AED 31,000 with a 50% discount on second-year renewal.
- DMCC Gaming Centre: opened in 2022, it provides a community and co-working hub for gaming and e-sports companies at AED 31,000, also including the 50% second-year renewal discount.
All three centres are housed in the Uptown Dubai Business Centre and sit alongside a community of like-minded companies, positioning DMCC as one of the leading hubs in the world for digital economy businesses.
What member services and value-added benefits does DMCC offer?
Beyond licensing, DMCC provides a comprehensive set of value-added services to its member companies, as detailed on the official DMCC value-added services page. These include:
- Government services: priority processing of employment visas, visa renewals, cancellations and Establishment Card renewals through the DMCC Member Portal.
- Banking solutions: access to tailored banking services through DMCC’s partners including Mashreq Bank, Emirates NBD (co-branded credit card), Wio Business, Al Maryah Community Bank and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank.
- Legal services: the DMCC Disputes Centre for mediation, the DMCC Compliance Hub for AML/CFT officer services, the Business Owners Will for succession planning, and a Tax Clinic for UAE tax advice.
- IP support: a new DMCC Intellectual Property Support Framework covering trademark registration, patent filing, copyright registration and IP portfolio structuring.
- Customs consultancy: a 20% discount on customs services through DMCC’s strategic partner BASCC.
- Document attestation: a 30% discount on attestations through Tawkeel, a private notary licensed by Dubai Courts.
Ready to Unlock DMCC's Full Benefits for Your Business?
100% ownership, 0% personal tax, and a thriving ecosystem community, let us set it up for you.
How does DMCC compare to other Dubai free zones and mainland?
DMCC’s closest peers in the UAE free zone landscape are IFZA (International Free Zone Authority in Dubai), JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone), DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) and Dubai mainland via the Department of Economic Development (DED). Each serves a different primary purpose and audience.
DMCC is typically the preferred choice for companies needing access to commodity trading infrastructure, international trade networks, or one of its 20 dedicated industry ecosystems. Its 26,000+ member community is one of the largest of any UAE free zone, which delivers meaningful networking and counterparty access that smaller free zones cannot replicate.
Feature Comparison: DMCC vs IFZA vs JAFZA vs DED Mainland
| Feature | DMCC | IFZA | JAFZA | DED Mainland |
| Ownership | 100% foreign | 100% foreign | 100% foreign | 100% foreign (since 2021 reforms) |
| Corporate Tax | 0% qualifying income | 0% qualifying income | 0% qualifying income | 9% above AED 375,000 |
| Activities | 1,000+ across 20 sectors | 1,500+ activities | Trading and logistics | All sectors |
| Min. Share Capital | AED 50,000 | No minimum | Varies by activity | Varies by licence |
| Visa Quota | 1–3 (flexi); 1 per 9 sqm | Based on office size | Based on office size | Based on office size |
| Setup Time | Approx. 10 working days | 5–7 working days | Varies | 5–10 working days |
| Key Strength | Community, ecosystems, trading infra | Low cost, simple | Port and logistics access | Full mainland market access |
This comparison is provided for general guidance only. Fees and requirements change frequently; verify directly with the relevant authority before making any decision.
For businesses that need to trade directly with the UAE mainland market, a Dubai mainland licence may be more practical, since free zone companies engaging in business with UAE mainland customers in certain circumstances may fall outside DMCC’s 0% qualifying income provisions. DMCC addresses this through its Dual Licence Permit service, which allows DMCC members to conduct selected activities on the UAE mainland without needing a separate mainland office.
Five practical tips for setting up in DMCC
- Use the Business Setup Wizard before committing to anything. Run through start.dmcc.ae before choosing a package. It asks about your activity, structure and office needs and produces a tailored proposal with indicative costs. It takes about 10 minutes and saves a lot of back-and-forth.
- Sort your UBO documentation early. DMCC has strict AML/CFT requirements. Gather UBO disclosure documents, passport copies and proof of address for all shareholders holding 25% or more before you start your application. Delays in documentation are the most common reason the 10-day timeline stretches.
- Choose your office solution based on visa needs, not just cost. The flexi desk is the most affordable option but limits you to one to three visas. If you are planning to hire staff, work out your intended headcount first and choose an office that gives you enough visa quota from the start.
- Consider multi-year licensing to save money. DMCC offers discounts for two and three-year licence terms. If you are confident in your business activity, paying in advance for multiple years saves on annual renewal costs and locks in the price.
- Explore ecosystem packages if you are in tech, crypto, AI or gaming. The dedicated ecosystem packages at AED 31,000 include a 50% discount on second-year renewal fees, co-working access and a community of like-minded businesses. For qualifying companies, they represent considerably better value than standard packages.
Ready to set up your business in DMCC?
businesssetuphq.com is a UAE business setup specialist with over 22 years of combined experience helping entrepreneurs, SMEs and corporates establish and grow their presence in the UAE. Whether you are exploring the UAE for the first time or looking to expand your existing operations, our team can guide you through the entire DMCC setup process, from selecting the right package and business activity to opening your bank account and applying for visas.
Our services cover free zone company formation across all major UAE free zones (including DMCC, JAFZA, IFZA, RAKEZ and more), mainland company formation across all seven emirates, and offshore company formation. We offer a free initial consultation with no obligation.
Book your free consultation today at businesssetuphq.com/contact-business-setup-hq/
Our Recent blogs
Testimonials:
Frequently asked questions about DMCC business setup
Yes. According to the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, DMCC offers a 100% digital company formation process. You can submit all documents, complete identity verification and sign legal documents electronically through the DMCC online portal. Your E-licence is issued digitally. If you subsequently apply for a UAE residence visa, you will need to visit the UAE to complete the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometric registration.
Yes. All DMCC-registered companies must have a registered business address within the free zone. This can be fulfilled through a flexi desk, a co-working space, a serviced office or a privately leased office in JLT or Uptown Dubai. As confirmed on the DMCC set-up-a-new-business page, DMCC requires all companies to have office space within the free zone. The type of office you choose also determines your visa quota.
The company registration process with DMCC typically takes around 10 working days from start to finish, depending on the completeness of the documentation provided. The E-licence is generally issued within two to three working days of signing all required documents. The entire process can be completed online from anywhere in the world.
According to the official DMCC licences guide, the minimum share capital is typically AED 50,000 (approximately USD 13,612), depending on the business activity. This capital must be deposited in the company’s UAE bank account within three weeks of the licence issuance date and can be withdrawn for business use after that.
Free zone companies generally operate within the free zone and engage in import, export and international trade. Certain direct trading with UAE mainland customers may fall outside the qualifying income provisions for free zones. DMCC offers a Dual Licence Permit which allows members to conduct certain activities on the UAE mainland without needing a separate mainland office. For full mainland trading, a DED mainland licence may be more appropriate.
DMCC is a qualified free zone under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022. Businesses operating in DMCC can benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, as confirmed on the DMCC corporate tax page. Income outside the qualifying income definition may be subject to the standard UAE corporate tax rate of 9% on taxable profits above AED 375,000. Take independent tax advice to understand which revenues attract the 0% rate.
Your visa quota depends on your office solution. A standard flexi desk is eligible for one to three visas. For private office space in JLT, the general rule is one visa per nine square metres. Certain DMCC offices have fixed allocations: Almas Tower offices allow up to six visas and Jewellery and Gemplex offices allow up to five visas. You can request a visa quota increase through the DMCC Member Portal.
Yes. While DMCC supports over 1,000 approved activities, certain activities are not permitted. According to the DMCC set-up-a-new-business FAQ, activities such as gambling, explicit content production and activities harmful to the environment or public health are excluded. Some regulated activities in financial services, crypto and healthcare require additional approvals from external authorities. A complete list of approved activities is available for download on the DMCC website.
Collaborate with Business Setup HQ for an exciting business setup experience in DMCC.
