DMCC Free Zone Company Setup in Dubai
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is one of the most established and trusted free zones in Dubai. It is designed for businesses that need credibility, physical offices, and long-term growth inside the UAE’s commercial ecosystem.
DMCC is not a low-cost or virtual free zone. It is a premium destination for trading companies, consultancies, and international businesses that want a real presence in Dubai.
✓ Trusted global trading free zone
✓ 100% foreign ownership allowed
✓ Physical office with visa eligibility
✓ Ideal for serious, long-term businesses
About Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
DMCC was established in 2002 and is located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), one of Dubai’s main business districts. It operates as an independent free zone authority and regulates company licensing, office requirements, visas, and compliance.
Today, DMCC hosts more than 20,000 active companies across trading, commodities, professional services, technology, and consulting sectors. It is consistently recognised as one of the world’s leading free zones due to its regulatory structure, infrastructure, and global reputation.
Companies registered in DMCC operate under UAE free zone regulations and conduct business internationally while maintaining a strong base in Dubai.
Benefits of Setting Up a Company in DMCC Free Zone
Global Recognition and Credibility
DMCC Free Zone is globally recognised as one of the world’s leading business hubs. Winning “Global Free Zone of the Year” multiple times makes DMCC company setup ideal for businesses that value credibility and international trust.
Strategic Location in Dubai
Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, DMCC offers direct access to Dubai’s major trade routes, ports, and airports. This strategic positioning supports international trading, consulting, and service-based businesses.
Wide Range of Business Activities
DMCC company formation allows a broad range of licensed activities, including trading, consultancy, services, and commodities-related businesses. This flexibility makes it suitable for startups and established firms alike.
Strong Business Community
With over 20,000 active companies and new businesses joining every month, DMCC provides a well-established ecosystem where networking, partnerships, and growth opportunities come naturally.
Flexible Office Options with Visa Eligibility
DMCC offers flexi-desks, serviced offices, and full office spaces. Office size directly affects visa eligibility, allowing businesses to scale operations as they grow.
End-to-End Business Support
Companies in DMCC benefit from streamlined licensing, visa processing, and compliance support, making business setup in DMCC smoother and more predictable.
Types of Licenses Available in DMCC
DMCC offers licenses based on clearly defined activities. Each license type is issued only after activity approval.
Trading License
Suitable for import, export, and commodity trading businesses, including general trading and specialised trading activities.
Service License
Designed for consulting, professional services, management advisory, IT services, and similar non-trading activities.
Industrial License
Issued for light manufacturing, assembly, or processing activities where operational facilities are required.
Each company must select activities that align with DMCC’s approved list, and activities cannot be mixed without approval.
Business Activities Allowed in DMCC
DMCC supports a wide range of activities, including:
- General and specialised trading
- Precious metals and stones
- Oil and gas consultancy
- Management and business consulting
- Marketing and advertising services
- IT consultancy and software services
- Accounting and bookkeeping services
- Logistics and support services
All activities are regulated, and licensing depends on office type and operational requirements.
DMCC Company Formation Process
Setting up a company in DMCC follows a structured and transparent process.
Activity and License Selection
Business activities are selected based on DMCC’s approved list and matched with the correct license type.
Company Structure
Options include a Free Zone Establishment (single shareholder) or a Free Zone Company (multiple shareholders).
Office Space Selection
A physical office inside JLT is mandatory. Visa allocation depends on office size.
License Approval
Once documents and office lease are submitted, DMCC issues the business license.
Visa and Immigration
Investor and employee visas are processed based on approved allocation.
Corporate Bank Account
After licensing, companies can apply for a UAE corporate bank account.
Office Space Requirements in DMCC
DMCC requires all companies to maintain a physical office.
- Flexi-desks are suitable for small teams and limited visas
- Serviced offices support growing businesses
- Private offices are required for higher visa quotas
Office size directly impacts the number of visas a company can obtain.
How to Get Started
Starting a DMCC company setup begins with selecting the right license based on your business activity. DMCC offers multiple license types, with the most common being the DMCC Trading License for commercial activities and the DMCC Service License for consultancy and professional services.
To qualify for DMCC company formation, your business must meet specific requirements. This includes having a defined business activity, a registered office within DMCC, and full compliance with DMCC regulations. Unlike mainland companies, a local sponsor is not required.
License costs typically start from around AED 15,000 for service licenses and can reach AED 25,000 or more for trading licenses, depending on activity type and office requirements. Additional costs may apply for office space, visas, and compliance services.
Working with experienced consultants can simplify the process. Gulf Corporate Services manages the entire DMCC business setup process, from license selection and documentation to approvals and registration. This ensures your company is set up correctly, efficiently, and without unnecessary delays.
Visa Options in DMCC Free Zone
DMCC companies can apply for:
- Investor visas for shareholders
- Employee visas for staff
- Dependent visas for family members
Visa allocation depends on office size and business activity. Medical tests and Emirates ID registration are mandatory.
DMCC Free Zone vs Other Dubai Free Zones
DMCC is best compared with other premium zones:
- DMCC: Ideal for trading, consulting, and international businesses
- Dubai Silicon Oasis: More tech and startup focused
- Dubai Media City: Media and creative industries
DMCC is preferred when credibility, location, and long-term operations matter more than cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About DMCC Free Zone
Is DMCC suitable for small businesses?
Yes, but it is better suited for businesses planning real operations rather than low-budget setups.
Is physical office space mandatory in DMCC?
Yes. Virtual offices are not accepted.
Can I own 100% of my DMCC company?
Yes. Full foreign ownership is allowed.
How long does DMCC company setup take?
On average, 2 to 4 weeks after document submission.
Company Setup Support by Gulf Corporate Services
Gulf Corporate Services provides end-to-end support for DMCC company formation, including license selection, office leasing, visa processing, bank account assistance, and compliance guidance.
If you want clear advice, transparent costs, and a smooth setup process in DMCC, our team is ready to assist you.
Contact us today to start your DMCC company setup with confidence.