Business Setup
DMCC Free Zone Business Setup
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is the largest and most globally recognized free zone in the UAE, established in 2002 by the Government of Dubai. Located in the prestigious Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district, DMCC offers excellent connectivity to Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali Port, and major airports, making it a preferred destination for international businesses.
Originally developed as a global hub for commodities trading, DMCC has evolved into a diverse business ecosystem supporting trading, consultancy, technology, crypto, and professional services. It holds an “A” credit rating from Standard & Poor’s and has been awarded “Global Free Zone of the Year” multiple times by the Financial Times’ fDi Magazine.
With 21,000+ registered companies, freehold office options, and landmark towers such as Almas Tower—home to the Dubai Diamond Exchange—DMCC offers a world-class, integrated business environment under a strong regulatory framework.
At KLOUDAC, we provide end-to-end DMCC company formation services — from license selection to post-setup compliance — ensuring a smooth, compliant, and hassle-free journey.
Get expert guidance. Start your DMCC company with confidence.
Types of Licenses in DMCC Free Zone
DMCC offers flexible licensing options based on your business activity:
- Trading License: For businesses involved in import, export, distribution, and trading of goods.
- Service License: Ideal for consultancy, professional services, IT, marketing, and advisory firms.
- Industrial License: Suitable for light manufacturing, packaging, and industrial operations.
- Crypto License: Designed for blockchain, crypto trading, and digital asset-related businesses under DMCC guidelines.
DMCC Company Formation Options
Depending on your business requirements, DMCC allows the following company structures:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZCO) – Multiple shareholders
- Branch of a UAE Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company
Our consultants at KLOUDAC help you choose the most suitable structure for compliance and scalability.
Key Features of Business Setup and Licensing in DMCC Free Zone
DMCC Free Zone offers a flexible and investor-friendly framework for company formation in Dubai.
Company Structure
A DMCC company is formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and may have single or multiple shareholders, either individuals or corporate entities.
Share Capital Requirements
Minimum share capital varies by license type:
- AED 50,000 for specific Trading or Service Licenses
- AED 1,000,000 for a General Trading License
Each share has a nominal value of AED 1,000, and the capital can be fully used for business operations. Branches of local or foreign companies do not require share capital.
Management & Appointments
DMCC companies needs to appoint a Director, Manager, Secretary, and Negotiator. One person may hold multiple roles, simplifying compliance.
Visa & Residency
The Manager must hold a UAE residence visa sponsored by the DMCC company and enter the UAE at least once every six months. Existing visa holders must provide an NOC from their current sponsor.
Ownership & Tax Benefits
- 100% foreign ownership
- 50-year tax holiday
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
Office & Property Options
DMCC offers flexible lease terms with the option to lease or own property on a freehold basis within Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT).
Step-by-Step DMCC Company Formation Process
01
Business Activity Selection
The first step in DMCC company formation is selecting the appropriate business activity approved by the DMCC authority. This determines the license type, regulatory requirements, and future operational scope.
02
Trade Name Reservation
Next, a compliant trade name is reserved in line with DMCC naming guidelines. The name must reflect the business activity and receive approval before proceeding.
03
Initial Application Submission
Once the activity and name are approved, the initial application is submitted to DMCC along with the required documents for preliminary review and verification.
04
Office or Facility Selection
DMCC requires all companies to lease a physical office or flexi desk within Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT). The chosen facility directly impacts visa eligibility and operational flexibility.
05
DMCC Authority Approval
After reviewing the application and documents, the DMCC authority issues its formal approval, confirming compliance with free zone regulations.
06
DMCC License Issuance
Upon approval and payment of applicable fees, the DMCC trade license is issued, legally authorizing the company to operate in the free zone.
07
Establishment Card & Immigration File Setup
An establishment card and immigration file are created to enable visa processing and employee sponsorship under the DMCC entity.
08
Visa Processing & UAE Bank Account Assistance
Finally, investor and employee visas are processed, followed by assistance with opening a UAE corporate bank account to commence business operations.
Documents Required for DMCC Business Setup
To proceed with DMCC company formation, the following documents are generally required:
Passport copies of shareholders
UAE visa copy or entry stamp (if applicable)
Passport-size photographs
Proof of address
Business plan (for selected activities)
Our team will review and organize all documentation to ensure smooth approval.
Why Choose KLOUDAC for DMCC Business Setup?
Choosing KLOUDAC means partnering with a team that understands both business setup and compliance in the UAE.
- Experienced DMCC business setup consultants
- End-to-end company formation support
- Accounting, VAT & Corporate Tax under one roof
- Bank account opening assistance
- Ongoing compliance, renewals & advisory support
We don’t just help you set up your company — we help you run it compliantly and profitably.
Frequently Asked Questions on DMCC Free Zone Business Setup
Typically, DMCC company formation takes 7–15 working days, depending on activity approvals and documentation.
Yes, DMCC allows full foreign ownership.
Yes, all DMCC companies must lease an office or flexi desk within the free zone.
Yes, DMCC companies are eligible to open UAE corporate bank accounts.
Absolutely. DMCC is ideal for consultancy and professional service firms.
Ready to Set Up Your Business in DMCC?
Get expert guidance and a free consultation from KLOUDAC’s business setup specialists.
