Looking to start a business in Dubai, UAE? The DMCC Free Zone might just be the perfect place for you. Short for Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, DMCC is one of the most popular and award-winning free zones in the UAE. It’s located right in the heart of Dubai, in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area, and is home to over 25,000 businesses from around the world.
What makes DMCC such a great choice? It offers full foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, easy company setup, and access to world-class infrastructure. No matter if you’re a startup, trader, or service provider, DMCC free zone company formation provides everything you need to grow and succeed in the Middle East and beyond.
What is DMCC Free Zone?
The DMCC Free Zone, or Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, is one of the most successful and fastest-growing free zones in the UAE. Established in 2002 by the Dubai Government, DMCC was created to boost commodity trade and attract businesses to Dubai, and it’s done exactly that.
One of the biggest advantages of DMCC is its strategic location in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area. It’s right in the heart of Dubai, offering easy access to major roads, ports, airports, and the Dubai Metro.
Today, DMCC is home to over 25,000 registered companies from across the globe, making it the world’s #1 Free Zone according to the Financial Times’ fDi magazine, an award it has won nine times in a row. From startups to multinational corporations, businesses in DMCC operate across a wide range of sectors, including trading, technology, finance, gold, diamonds, energy, crypto, and more.
Business Activities Allowed in DMCC
DMCC offers one of the most diverse ranges of business activities in the UAE. Here are some of the main types of activities you can carry out in DMCC:
1. Trading Activities
- General trading
- Import/export of goods
- Precious metals and stones (gold, diamonds, pearls)
- Tea, coffee, and agro commodities
- Energy commodities (oil, gas, coal)
2. Service-Based Activities
- Management consultancy
- Marketing and advertising
- IT and software services
- Legal, accounting, and HR services
- Event management and media services
3. Financial and Investment Services
- Brokerage firms (under relevant regulatory approvals)
- Investment advisory
- Crypto trading and blockchain (under DMCC Crypto Centre framework)
4. Industrial and Light Manufacturing
- Packaging and assembly
- Light manufacturing (non-polluting)
- Value-added services in logistics or commodities
5. Tech and Innovation
- Web development
- Digital marketing
- AI and blockchain solutions
- E-commerce and online platforms
DMCC regularly updates its list of permitted activities, and you can choose multiple activities under a single license, depending on your business needs.
What are the Documents Required for DMCC Company Setup?
Business setup in the DMCC Free Zone is easy, but it’s essential to have all the necessary documents in place to avoid delays. The exact list may vary depending on your business activity and company structure, but here are the general documents you’ll need:
- Passport copies
- Passport-size photos
- UAE visa copy or entry stamp (if applicable)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Valid Trade License (if the parent company is in the UAE)
- Business plan (required for certain regulated activities)
- Resume or CV (for certain professional services or consultancy licenses)
Pro Tip: All documents must be in English or legally translated, and some may require notarization or attestation, especially if issued outside the UAE. At AE Setup, we can help you prepare and submit all the required documents correctly to make the process hassle-free and fast.
DMCC Free Zone Company Formation Process
Starting your company in the DMCC Free Zone is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Define Your Business Activity
Begin by selecting the business activity or activities your company will undertake. DMCC offers over 600 licensed activities across various sectors, including trading, services, industrial operations, and specialised areas like crypto assets and commodities.
2. Choose a Legal Structure
Decide on the most suitable legal entity for your business:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Two to five shareholders.
- Branch Office: Extension of an existing company
3. Select a Company Name
Choose a name that follows DMCC’s naming guidelines and isn’t already in use. Make sure it reflects your business and doesn’t include restricted terms.
4. Submit the Online Pre-Approval Application
Complete the online application on the DMCC portal, providing details about shareholders, proposed business activities, and uploading necessary documents such as:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers.
- Proof of residence.
- Business plan (if applicable).
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the shareholder is a UAE resident.
An initial application fee of AED 1,015 is payable at this stage.
5. Obtain Initial Approval
DMCC will review your application and, upon approval, issue:
- Name reservation certificate.
- Initial approval notification.
- Bank introduction letter to open a corporate bank account
6. Sign Legal Documents
Once the documents are accepted, DMCC will generate the company’s legal documents, such as the Articles of Association (AOA) and Board Resolution. These need to be reviewed and signed electronically by all shareholders.
7. Choose Office Space
DMCC requires every business to have a physical address. You can choose from flexible desk options, serviced offices, or permanent office spaces in the JLT area.
8. Make the Payment
Once everything is finalised, you’ll need to make the official payment to DMCC. This includes:
- Registration fees
- License fees (based on your activity)
- Office lease payment
- Additional fees for extra services (if applicable)
9. License Issuance and Company Registration
After payment, DMCC will issue:
- Your official Trade/Service/Industrial License
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Share Certificate
- Establishment Card
These documents confirm that your company is legally established and allowed to operate within the DMCC Free Zone.
10. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Utilise the bank introduction letter provided by DMCC to open a corporate bank account with a UAE-based bank.
11. Apply for Visas
If needed, you can now apply for residency visas for yourself and your employees under your DMCC company.
DMCC Free Zone Company Formation Cost
The cost of forming a company in the DMCC Free Zone varies depending on your business activity, office space choice, and the number of visas required. On average, initial setup fees, including the trade license, registration, and office lease, typically start from around AED 18,000 to AED 50,000 per year.
Additional costs may include visas, document attestation, and any special permits needed for specific activities. To understand the exact investment required, it’s best to get a tailored quote based on your business needs.
What are the Benefits of DMCC Free Zone Company Formation?
Starting your business in DMCC comes with many advantages that make it one of the top free zones in Dubai:
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
DMCC allows you to own your business entirely without needing a local Emirati partner or sponsor. This gives you full control over your company’s operations and profits.
2. Flexible Office Solutions
DMCC offers a variety of office spaces to suit all business sizes and budgets. Options include flexi-desks for startups, serviced offices for small teams, and full-fledged office units for larger companies, all with world-class facilities.
3. Strong Commodity and Trade Focus
As a multi-commodities centre, DMCC provides specialised services, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks tailored to trading businesses, especially in precious metals, energy, and agricultural products.
4. Simplified Banking Setup
Many international banks have a presence or partner with DMCC businesses, making it easier to open corporate bank accounts and manage international transactions.
5. Free Zone Authority with Full Jurisdiction
DMCC acts as both the regulator and the licensing authority, which means streamlined procedures without involving multiple government agencies.
Ready to Launch Your Business in DMCC?
When it comes to setting up a business in Dubai, DMCC Free Zone offers unmatched advantages that can help your company thrive. However, starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially with all the steps involved. But with AE Setup by your side, it doesn’t have to be.
From handling paperwork and getting your trade license to finding the right office space and assisting with PRO services and bank account setup, we make the process smooth and stress-free. Our team is here to guide you with clear advice and full support at every stage.
Get in touch today!
