DMCC — Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

Key facts about setting up a company in DMCC

Company setup from

34,484 AED

Registration from

2 weeks

Bank account

Guaranteed

Residence visas for

2 years

DMCC company formation process

To establish a company in DMCC, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents, pay the applicable fees, secure the required permits, and sign a set of legal agreements. The registration process is partially remote, meaning you can complete several steps without traveling to Dubai. However, a visit to the UAE is required for medical examinations, visa processing, and opening a corporate bank account.
Carefully choose the business activity and license type that align with your operations. DMCC offers various license options, so it’s important to make the right selection. Choosing an inappropriate activity, license category, or jurisdiction can lead to complications during the registration process — including delays or difficulties in opening a corporate bank account, or even being denied entirely.

When setting up in DMCC, you can choose from the following legal entity types:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Although companies are given the suffix “DMCC” instead of “LLC,” they operate as standard LLCs with the same legal structure.

  • Branch of a Foreign Company – Ideal for established companies looking to expand their operations into the UAE.

  • Representative Office – Suitable for non-commercial activities such as marketing or liaison functions without engaging in direct business operations.

Gather all necessary documents and complete the application form as required by the DMCC authority. Submit them along with the applicable fees. Additionally, you’ll need to finalize a lease agreement for your chosen office space within the free zone.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive all the official documents confirming your company’s registration, including:

  • Business License

  • Tenancy Contract (if office space is leased outside DMCC facilities)

  • Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA/AoA)

  • Bank Reference Letter

  • Share Certificate (issued if shares are fully paid)

The establishment card serves as an official document that includes your company’s details and outlines your visa quota. It is essential for processing employee and investor visas.

Once your entry permit is issued, you’ll need to take the next steps based on your location:

  • If you are outside the UAE: You must enter the country within 60 days of the permit being issued to complete your medical examination and biometric procedures for visa processing.

  • If you are already in the UAE: A status change will be processed, converting your current tourist or residency visa to your new business visa.

Undergo the required medical examination and submit all necessary documents to obtain your UAE residence visa. The number of visas available for company owners and employees may vary depending on the chosen registration package. Please note that health insurance is mandatory for both the company owner and all employees when applying for a residence visa.
Once your residence visa is approved, you will receive your Emirates ID — an official identification card required for accessing various services across the UAE.

Submit your application to a UAE bank to open a corporate account. Please note that bank approval may take up to a month in some cases.

With our assistance, you can navigate the entire process swiftly and smoothly. You don't need to be in Dubai to complete the registration — much of the procedure can be handled remotely. However, you will need to visit the UAE for medical checkups, visa formalities, and to open your bank account.

DMCC license costs

The basic package for setting up a business in DMCC, priced at 34,484 AED, is the most affordable option. It includes up to three business activities within the same activity group, provided they qualify for the flexi-desk facility. While the overall costs of setting up a company in the DMCC free zone may be higher compared to other free zones in Dubai, the benefits and prime location offered by DMCC more than justify the investment.

Examples of business setup packages

TYPE OF LICENSE
COST
1-visa license + flexi-desk
34,484 AED
3-visa license + flexi-desk
43,780 AED

DMCC dual license

The DMCC Dual License is a new offering that allows companies to operate both within the DMCC free zone and on the mainland UAE. This license provides several key advantages, including:

  • Access to the Mainland UAE Market: Companies with a DMCC dual license gain entry to the large and expanding mainland UAE market.

  • Reduced Compliance Requirements: The dual license offers companies a streamlined compliance process when operating on the mainland.

  • Increased Operational Flexibility: The DMCC dual license provides businesses with greater flexibility in their operations.

This dual license is an excellent choice for companies looking to tap into the mainland UAE market while enjoying simplified compliance and operational advantages.

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Is DMCC suitable for your business?

Yes

  • If you have a promising start-up and are looking for flexible workspace solutions and favorable conditions for a smooth launch.

  • If you’re a mid-sized company planning long-term growth, DMCC offers the flexibility to rent additional space as your business expands, with no restrictions on leased space.

  • If you own a large or multinational corporation and require extensive office spaces, DMCC provides executive suites and multi-storey office options.

  • If you conduct international trade or offer professional services, DMCC is the right fit.

  • If you’re looking to open a shop or restaurant — typically business activities available to mainland companies — DMCC offers a dual license that grants access to the UAE mainland market.

  • If you prefer a premium location in the heart of Dubai, DMCC is ideal. Located along Sheikh Zayed Road, DMCC is surrounded by popular areas like Dubai Marina, Bluewaters, and Palm Jumeirah, where many expats and the European community reside.

  • If you value convenience and prefer to work and live in the same area, DMCC, located in Jumeirah Lake Towers, offers both office and residential buildings. With two metro stations and easy access to Dubai’s highways, commuting around the city is hassle-free.

No

  • If your business involves manufacturing or logistics and requires warehouses, transport hubs, or large production facilities, we recommend exploring RAKEZ or JAFZA free zones.

DMCC licenses and business activities

DMCC offers a wide variety of business activities, serving diverse industries and sectors. Whether you’re involved in traditional trading, professional services, or cutting-edge fields like crypto commodities trading, the free zone provides ample opportunities for innovation and growth. One of the key benefits of DMCC is its flexibility in business operations. With your DMCC license, you can engage in up to 6 business activities within the same activity group—double the typical limit across the UAE. This offers you the flexibility to diversify your operations or explore different avenues within your industry.
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DMCC facilities

DMCC is located in the dynamic Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area, at the heart of Dubai, surrounded by a wide array of business and leisure amenities. Iconic landmarks such as Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah are just across the road, and Downtown Dubai is only a 30-minute drive away. When establishing a company in DMCC, businesses can choose from four types of rental facilities, each designed to meet their unique needs:

Executive office

A fully equipped, private workspace offering essential support services and a professional environment to foster business growth.

Flexi desk

A shared workspace available for a set number of hours, offering basic facilities required for company registration.

The JLT area offers a wide range of amenities to meet diverse needs, including business centers, offices, clinics, schools, and sports clubs. This comprehensive infrastructure supports both professional and personal aspects of life.

DMCC residence visas

In DMCC, the visa validity for both company owners and employees is 2 years. Unlike other zones, company owners are not eligible for an Investor visa but can hold any senior managerial position within the company. Employees applying for a managerial visa must submit attested educational certificates.

Examples of business setup packages

VISA FEE
MEDICAL CHECK
EMIRATES ID
1-year visa
from 2,237 AED
650 AED
390 AED
2-year visa
from 2,972 AED
650 AED
390 AED
When applying for residence visas in DMCC, it is important to note that you must obtain health insurance first. It is worth mentioning that the insurance processing may lengthen the visa procedure.

Comprehensive UAE Residency Guide

Explore the requirements, terms, and costs.

DMCC company license renewal

Renewing a DMCC company is more cost-effective than the initial setup. There is no one-time registration fee; you only need to pay for the license renewal and facility fees.
ITEM
RENEWAL FEE
Standard package (license, establishment card, AoA, application fees)
22,130 AED
Flexi-desk
18,460 AED

This makes DMCC companies highly cost-efficient when it comes to maintenance.

Regardless of the type of business activity, every company within the DMCC jurisdiction is required to submit an annual audit report.

To simplify the renewal process, business setup consultants in DMCC can manage the procedure on your behalf, so your personal presence is not required.

DMCC company amendments

Minor amendments in DMCC can typically be handled remotely. However, for share transfers, either the owner must make a personal visit or provide a Power of Attorney.
SERVICE
COST
DMCC company amendment
4,000 AED

During the license renewal process, certain amendments can be made at no additional cost. For instance, you can add or remove business activities as part of the renewal.

Other common changes include updating the company name, location, or adding/removing company managers.

DMCC company liquidation

Liquidating a company within the DMCC jurisdiction involves a detailed process with several key steps:

  • Final audit

  • Newspaper advertisement announcing the company closure

  • Closure of the bank account

  • Termination of lease agreements

  • Cancellation of visas

  • Cancellation of the business license

The liquidation process can take anywhere from 2 to 5 months, depending on the circumstances. Government fees for liquidation are approximately 10,000 AED. Business setup consultants at visakingsdubai in DMCC can typically manage the entire liquidation process on your behalf.

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With our assistance, you can navigate the UAE company liquidation process quickly and seamlessly, ensuring a smooth closure while saving both time and resources.

About DMCC

DMCC is the world’s largest free zone and a prime global hub for trading commodities and related products. Hosting over 24,000 companies—from start-ups to large multinational corporations—it offers exceptional opportunities for business connections and networking. Located in the heart of Dubai, DMCC features a mix of commercial and residential towers, creating a self-sustained community. With two metro stations and convenient access to major highways, it is strategically positioned for business success. Thanks to its abundant amenities and supportive business environment, DMCC is the preferred choice for foreign investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish their presence in Dubai. One of the key benefits of DMCC company formation is the ability to operate up to six business activities under a single license. Company registration within the free zone typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks. Alternatively, you can explore other free zones for your company setup, potentially opting for more cost-effective options that better suit your needs.

FAQ

No, a personal visit to the UAE is required in accordance with UAE Central Bank regulations. Local banks mandate this visit to verify the client’s identity.

In most cases, you can obtain a debit card for your newly established company, especially if there is a single shareholder. Credit cards are typically issued against a fixed deposit. Regarding loans, banks may assess your eligibility based on your company’s performance and profits. It’s advisable to apply for a loan after at least one year of business operations.
Officially, a free zone company must have its office located within the free zone where it is registered. However, if you require an office in Dubai, you can rent space in a Business Center and use it on a flexible basis. It’s important to note that the minimum required space (such as a flexi desk) within the free zone cannot be canceled.
A flexi desk is a mandatory requirement for companies that are eligible for resident visas. It provides the minimum physical office space required for companies with employees under their visa. Additionally, having a flexi desk can help with opening a bank account, as banks require proof of a company’s physical presence or office.
VAT obligations depend on both the company’s place of registration and where its business activities are conducted. VAT applies when the taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000. If a free zone company’s trading activities occur outside the UAE, the turnover is not considered taxable. However, if goods are imported into the UAE, VAT at a rate of 5% must be applied to invoices and paid.
The UAE does not impose personal income tax. However, there is a 5% import tax on goods brought into the country, as well as a 5% VAT on trading or service transactions conducted within the UAE. On June 1, 2023, the UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax. However, companies registered in UAE free zones may qualify for corporate tax exemptions if they meet the criteria for eligible activities.
The choice between a free zone company and an offshore or mainland entity depends on your business model and needs. However, a free zone setup offers several advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, eligibility for resident visas, the ability to conduct business both within and outside the UAE, and more favorable banking options compared to offshore companies. Additionally, free zones often provide cost-effective solutions like the flexi desk option, which offers flexibility without the need for larger, more expensive executive office spaces.
While we aim to make the account opening process as seamless as possible, we cannot guarantee approval, as it ultimately depends on the bank. Each application undergoes review by multiple bank departments, and the bank may contact you for additional information. Providing a clear and detailed overview of your business increases the likelihood of a successful account opening. We work diligently to prepare you and your company for a smooth and efficient process.
Your company needs to be renewed annually, with costs typically lower than the initial setup. Renewal fees depend on the specific company package, and you can get an estimate by downloading the pricing details from our website. The renewal process does not require the owner’s personal presence and can be handled by your agent. After renewal, the new license must be presented to the bank to extend your bank account, a service included in our renewal assistance.
You have several payment options available: bank transfer, cash, or online payment using a credit or debit card.

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