DGCX - Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange
Complete guide to registering your company in DGCX Free Zone. Understand requirements, fees, registration process, and annual compliance obligations for commodities trading businesses.
About DGCX
DGCX (Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange) is the region's leading derivatives exchange, offering a regulated platform for trading futures and options contracts. Located in DMCC, DGCX provides a strategic hub for commodities trading, financial services, and market-making activities with direct access to Middle East, Asian, and European markets.
License Types Available
Trading Member License
For futures and options trading, clearing member activities, and market participation in commodities derivatives.
Commodities Brokerage
For providing brokerage services in gold, silver, oil, and other commodity futures contracts.
Market Making License
For providing liquidity and market-making services in exchange-traded derivatives.
Financial Services License
For commodity trading advisors, risk management consultancy, and financial analysis services.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Clear copies of passports for all shareholders, directors, and authorized traders
- Financial Statements: Audited financial statements proving minimum capital requirements
- Professional Qualifications: Trading certifications, CISI, CFA, or relevant financial qualifications
- Business Plan: Detailed trading strategy, risk management framework, and target markets
- Compliance Documentation: AML/KYC policies, compliance procedures, and risk management systems
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Choose Membership Category
Select trading member, clearing member, or market maker status and reserve company name
Timeline: 2-3 days
Submit Membership Application
Complete DGCX membership application with financial statements and professional qualifications
Timeline: 3-5 days
Regulatory Review & Approval
DGCX compliance team reviews application and conducts due diligence
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Capital Deposit & Membership Fees
Pay membership fees and deposit minimum capital requirement in margin account
Timeline: 1-2 days
Trading Infrastructure Setup
Configure trading terminals, connectivity, and clearing systems
Timeline: 1-2 weeks
License Activation & Trading
Receive membership certificate and commence trading operations
Timeline: 1-2 days
DGCX Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trading Member Fee (Annual) | 50,000 - 100,000 |
| Clearing Member Fee (Annual) | 150,000 - 250,000 |
| Minimum Capital Requirement | 500,000 - 2,000,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 25,000 |
| Trading Terminal License | 15,000 |
| Transaction Fees (per contract) | 2 - 10 |
* Fees vary based on membership category and trading volume. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
Membership Renewal
Renew DGCX membership annually and maintain minimum capital requirements in margin account.
Regulatory Reporting
Submit quarterly trading reports, position limits monitoring, and regulatory compliance statements.
Audited Financial Statements
Submit annual audited financials demonstrating continued compliance with capital adequacy requirements.
Corporate Tax Filing
Register for Corporate Tax and file annual returns. QFZP status may provide 0% CT on qualifying income.
AML/KYC Compliance
Maintain updated client KYC records, AML monitoring systems, and suspicious transaction reporting.
Professional Certification
Ensure traders maintain valid professional certifications and complete mandatory compliance training.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
DGCX companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income
- 9% on non-qualifying income (mainland transactions)
- De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue
Related Free Zones
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