DMCC company setup gives you 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and access to more than 25,000 companies in Dubai’s leading free zone. Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, DMCC combines strong infrastructure, responsive government support, and a globally connected community. Most companies can complete setup in 3 to 5 working days once the documents are in order.
Why DMCC stands out
DMCC has evolved from a commodities hub into a diverse business ecosystem recognized for its scale and ease of doing business. The location puts you close to major business districts, two international airports, and key trade routes.
Highlights:
- A large international community with companies from 180+ countries
- Premium towers such as Almas Tower and AU Tower
- Ecosystems for commodities, professional services, and technology
- Business support, networking, and market access across Asia, Europe, and Africa
- Flexible office options from co-working to full floors
- See Dubai Free Zone Company Setup for a quick overview,
- Compare Mainland Company Setup Services if you need onshore permits,
Core benefits of a DMCC company
- 100% foreign ownership: Full control over operations, strategy, and profits.
- Tax efficiency: No personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates under UAE federal law.
- Full profit repatriation: Move capital and profits without restrictions.
- World-class infrastructure: High-speed connectivity, modern facilities, and reliable services.
- Broad business activity list: Flexible licensing options that let you operate across related activities.
- Single-window services: Streamlined government services that simplify setup and ongoing operations.
License types in DMCC
Choose the license that matches your planned activities. You can combine related activities under one license and, where relevant, opt for dual licensing.
- Trading License: For import, export, and wholesale of approved goods.
- Service License: For consulting, IT, marketing, and other professional services.
- Gold Trading License: Tailored for precious metals and jewelry businesses.
- Industrial License: For light manufacturing and assembly within designated facilities.
- E-commerce License: For online businesses and marketplaces.
- Crypto Commodities Trading: Progressive activities that support growth in digital asset ecosystems.
- Dual License: Combine trading and service activities for maximum flexibility.
Step-by-step setup
- Define activities: Select permitted activities that reflect your business model.
- Reserve a name: Choose a compliant name that matches your brand.
- Prepare documents: Typical requirements include shareholder passports, proof of address, bank reference, parent company documents if applicable, and a business plan for regulated activities.
- Apply online: Submit through the DMCC portal.
- Due diligence: DMCC conducts KYC and background checks.
- Choose your office: From co-working to private offices, then sign the lease.
- Make payment: License, registration, office rent, and any visa fees.
- Receive your license. You will also receive an establishment card.
- Process visas. Apply for UAE residency for founders and employees. Many packages include one visa allocation.
- Open a corporate bank account. DMCC’s partner banks simplify onboarding once your license and Emirates ID are in place.
Costs and planning
Actual costs depend on license type, activities, and workspace. As a planning guide:
- License fees: From around AED 15,000 per year, activity-dependent.
- Registration: One-time company registration charges.
- Office solutions:
- Flexi-desks from around AED 15,000 per year
- Hot desks from around AED 24,000 per year
- Private offices priced by size and location
- Additional items: Visa processing beyond included allocations, attestations, PRO services, renewals, and optional bank account support.
- Bundle packages: Many packages offer better value by combining a trade license, immigration card, establishment card, one visa allocation, and basic office facilities.
- Investor Visa Services,
- Dependent Visa Services,
- Legal Translation Services for attestations,
- Secretarial Services for filings and renewals,
- Contact our team if you want end-to-end support,
Offices and infrastructure
Choose a workspace that fits your stage and team size.
- Co-working: Ideal for startups and solo founders who want a professional address without a full office commitment.
- Flexi-desks: Dedicated desks with shared amenities for small teams.
- Private offices and full floors: Scalable space for growing firms and regional headquarters.
Common inclusions: high-speed internet, meeting rooms, reception services, security, parking, and nearby retail and dining. The online portal streamlines document submission and ongoing requests.
Banking and financial services
DMCC collaborates with leading UAE banks to support:
- Multi-currency and current accounts
- Business savings and corporate cards
- Trade finance and digital banking platforms
Typical documentation: trade license, memorandum of association, board resolution, passport copies of signatories, Emirates IDs once issued, and proof of address. Many companies complete account opening in 2 to 4 weeks.
Compliance essentials
Staying compliant is straightforward when you track the annual checklist.
- Annual renewals: Keep your license and records up to date.
- Economic Substance Regulations: Demonstrate core income-generating activities, adequate expenditure, physical presence, and qualified staff.
- UBO declaration: Disclose ultimate beneficial owners.
- AML and KYC: Maintain internal procedures and documentation.
- Other standards: Data protection, environmental, health, and safety requirements as applicable.
- UAE Ministry of Finance, ESR guidance,
- • UAE Ministry of Economy, ESR resources,
- • Federal Tax Authority, Free Zone corporate tax guidance,
DMCC vs other Dubai free zones
- DIFC: Focuses on financial services, whereas DMCC serves a broader range of sectors with comparatively lower licensing costs.
- JAFZA: Suited to logistics and manufacturing at scale. DMCC offers wider service and trading activities with lifestyle advantages in JLT.
- Dubai South: Strong in aviation and logistics. DMCC provides multi-sector solutions and an established business community.
Liquidation and de-registration
If you need to close, DMCC provides guidance for liquidation and de-registration. Expect document preparation, notifications, and formal cancellation of the license and registry entry, with support available to make the process orderly and compliant.
Success stories
- Regional scale-ups: Large enterprises using DMCC as a Middle East hub report strong regional growth.
- Startups: Tech and services startups leverage the network to raise capital and expand across the GCC.
- Trading firms: Commodity traders increase volumes by tapping DMCC’s platforms and community.
Ready to get started?
DMCC company setup is more than registration. It is a practical route into one of the world’s most dynamic business environments. From streamlined licensing to ongoing support, you get a platform that helps you launch, operate, and scale.
Join more than 25,000 businesses in Dubai’s premier free zone. Contact Hope Ventures for tailored guidance on license selection, documentation, visas, and bank account opening.
FAQs:
Can I own 100% of my company in DMCC?
Yes. DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership, so you retain full control of operations and profit distribution.
How long does setup take?
Once documents are complete, licensing typically takes 3 to 5 business days. End-to-end onboarding, including visas and banking, generally takes 2 to 4 weeks depending on activities and document readiness.
How much does it cost to set up in DMCC?
Basic licenses start around AED 15,000. First-year totals often range from AED 30,000 to AED 60,000 depending on activities, office choice, and visa needs.
How many visas can I obtain?
Visa eligibility is tied to your office type and size. Flexi-desks often support 3 to 4 visas. Larger offices accommodate more. Many packages include one visa allocation, with options to add employee visas as your headcount grows.
Which activities are allowed?
DMCC lists more than 2,000 activities across trading, services, e-commerce, light manufacturing, and specialized areas such as crypto-related operations. Some regulated activities require additional approvals.
