The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is one of the UAE’s most prominent free zones, strategically located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai. Offering 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and modern infrastructure, DMCC is a top destination for investors seeking growth opportunities.

With over 25,000 registered companies, DMCC ensures a smooth digital process backed by clear regulations, though physical office space is required. Like the Meydan Free Zone and IFZA Free Zone, it supports diverse activities across trade, consultancy, and services.

At RIZ & MONA Consultancy, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs through DMCC business setup, license options, costs, and compliance. Our expertise ensures that company formation in UAE free zones is seamless, efficient, and tailored to your business needs.

Key Benefits of DMCC Free Zone Business Setup in Dubai

Tax Efficiency

100% Ownership

Duty-Free Trade

900+ Activities

Flexible Licensing

Prime Location

Fast Setup

Modern Offices

Sector Hubs

Reputation & Support

Step-by-Step Process for DMCC Free Zone Business Setup in Dubai

Setting up a business in DMCC involves a clear, structured process supported by digital tools and dedicated assistance. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
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Choose License Type and Entity Structure

Select the appropriate license (Trading, Service, or Industrial) and legal structure—either a Free Zone Company (FZCO/FZE) or a Branch. Ensure the business activity is listed among DMCC’s approved options.

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Reserve Trade Name

Propose a unique company name that follows DMCC’s naming rules. Names must avoid restricted terms and comply with cultural and legal standards.

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Apply for Initial Approval

Submit the application via DMCC’s online portal. Include details of shareholders, management, and activities. An application fee of AED 1,035 is paid at this stage. DMCC will review and issue a provisional approval if accepted.

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Prepare and Submit Documents

Individual shareholders must provide passport copies, entry stamps, and photos. Corporate shareholders submit notarized and attested incorporation documents, board resolutions, and powers of attorney. The company’s Articles of Association (AOA) must also be submitted, DMCC offers ready-to-use templates.

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Deposit Share Capital

FZCO/FZE companies deposit share capital—commonly AED 50,000—via DMCC’s portal or a UAE bank. Branches are exempt. Once confirmed, this capital becomes available for company use.

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Lease Office Space

All companies must lease space in DMCC. Options include flexi-desks, private offices, or retail units in JLT towers. A signed lease is required to proceed.

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Final Approval and License Issuance

After all documents are submitted and fees paid, DMCC issues the Certificate of Registration and Business License (valid for 12 months). Setup typically takes 2–4 weeks.

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Post-Incorporation Setup

Register for an establishment card (immigration card) to begin visa processing. Apply for investor and employee visas through DMCC.

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Open a Corporate Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account and apply for any additional operating permits, if required by your activity.

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License Types in DMCC Freezone

Trading License

Covers import, export, distribution, and trading of listed goods, with general trading allowed for multiple product lines under the Trade License in Dubai.

Service License

Covers professional or consultancy services (e.g., IT, marketing, logistics, finance) and must comply with regulations under the Service License in Dubai.

Industrial License

Light manufacturing, processing, or packaging (e.g., jewelry, tea, coffee); must meet regulations as per the Industrial License in Dubai.

Permitted Business Activities in DMCC Freezone

  • Commodity trading: gold, diamonds (via Dubai Diamond Exchange), oil, agriculture

  • Tech startups and software development

  • Financial and management consulting

  • E-commerce and online platforms

  • Logistics and supply chain services

  • Foodstuff and consumer goods trading

  • Jewelry production and light industrial work

  • Crypto and blockchain-related services (via DMCC Crypto Centre)

  • Electronic commodities registration and title transfer (via DMCC Tradeflow platform)

Company Legal Structures in DMCC Free Zone

DMCC allows several legal structures to suit different ownership setups, business models, and expansion plans.

  • Free Zone Company (FZCO / FZE)

    • FZE: Single-shareholder company (individual or corporate).

    • FZCO: Multi-shareholder company (individuals, corporates, or a mix).

    • Offers limited liability protection.

    • Share Capital: Historically AED 50,000 (min. AED 10,000 per shareholder); still the common standard. Can be deposited via DMCC’s portal (up to AED 50,000) or a UAE bank and is available for business use after setup.

  •  Branch of an Existing Company

    • Open to both UAE mainland and foreign companies.

    • No separate legal identity and no capital requirement.

    • Activities must match the parent company.

    • Ideal for businesses expanding into Dubai without creating a new entity.

  • Special Structures (SPVs, Holding Companies, Family Offices)

    • SPVs: Asset-holding or investment vehicles, often with simplified requirements.

    • Holding Companies: For managing ownership across multiple entities.

    • Family Offices & Foundations: For private wealth and legacy planning.

    • Some may be exempt from full office requirements, depending on use case.

  • Key Common Requirements

    • All structures must appoint at least one Manager or Director.

    • A physical office lease within the DMCC Free Zone (JLT) is mandatory.

    • Annual compliance includes audited financials and license renewal.

Challenges and Considerations in DMCC 

Higher initial setup and annual costs compared to other free zones
Mandatory physical office lease (even for small or remote businesses)
Annual audit requirement for all companies
Limited direct access to UAE mainland market without a local agent or special permit
Certain sectors may be better served by specialized zones (e.g., finance, media, heavy industry)
Bank account opening may take time due to compliance checks
Shareholder documents may require notarization and attestation, especially for foreign entities

Cost of DMCC Free Zone Business Setup in Dubai

Cost Component Amount (AED) Notes
Application Fee 1,035 (one-time) Paid during initial application
Company Registration Fee 9,020 (one-time) Company incorporation
Articles of Association Issuance 2,020 (one-time) Drafted and filed with DMCC
License Fee 10,000 – 50,000/year Standard ~20,000; varies by activity
Flexi-Desk Office 15,000 – 20,000/year Includes basic desk and 1–2 visa quota
Private Office From 25,000/year (can exceed 100k) Varies by size and tower within JLT
Bundled Package (Optional) ~45,000 (first year) Includes license + flexi-desk
Residency Visa (per person) 3,000 – 7,000 Includes government fees, medical, Emirates ID
Establishment Card 1,825/year Required for visa and immigration processing
Share Capital (FZCO/FZE only) Commonly 50,000 (one-time) Not a fee; required deposit, usable post-incorporation
Audit & Accounting Varies Mandatory for annual renewal
PRO/Admin Services (Optional) Varies If external consultants are hired
Knowledge & Innovation Fee 20 per government transaction Government standard fee
VAT on Office/Services 5% Applies to rent and DMCC service charges

Typical Total Costs

Setup Phase Estimated Total (AED) Notes
First Year (Basic) ~50,000 Includes license, flexi-desk, and 1–2 visas
Annual Renewal ~30,000+ Includes license, office rent, audit, etc.

DMCC vs Other Major UAE Free Zones

Free Zone Primary Focus Best For
DMCC General trading, services, tech, commodities, crypto SMEs, global traders, service firms, startups, crypto businesses
DIFC Financial services, fintech, asset management Banks, law firms, investment companies, regulated financial entities
ADGM Financial services, fintech, private wealth Private equity, wealth managers, family offices, fintech innovators
JAFZA Logistics, manufacturing, heavy trade, industrial Exporters, manufacturers, logistics and supply chain firms
Rizmona Consultancy 15 Years Experience

DMCC Free Zone Business Setup Consultants in Dubai

How Riz & Mona Consultancy Can Help?

Riz & Mona Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your DMCC Free Zone Business Setup, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

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FAQS

Can the DMCC share capital be deposited through a method other than a UAE bank?

Yes. For capital amounts up to AED 50,000, DMCC allows deposit via its own portal without requiring a bank confirmation letter.

Are there any naming restrictions when reserving a company name in DMCC?

Yes. The name must not contain restricted words, must respect cultural norms, and must not resemble existing registered names.

How many business activities can I include under one DMCC license?

Multiple activities can be included if they fall under the same category and receive DMCC’s approval. Activities from different categories usually require separate licenses.

Can company incorporation be completed remotely?

Partially, yes. Several steps—including document submission and signing—can be done through DMCC’s online portal. Physical presence may be required for certain verification steps or final signing.

What is an Establishment Card, and is it mandatory?

An Establishment Card (immigration card) is mandatory for accessing visa services. It enables the company to sponsor visas for employees and investors.

Is a local UAE sponsor required for DMCC company formation?

No. DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor or Emirati partner required.

Can a DMCC company open a corporate bank account easily?

DMCC companies are generally well-regarded by banks, but account opening still depends on due diligence and may take time—especially for shareholders outside the UAE.