DMCC - Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Complete guide to registering your company in DMCC Free Zone. Understand requirements, fees, registration process, and annual compliance obligations.
About DMCC
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is the world's leading free zone and Government of Dubai Authority on commodities trade and enterprise. Home to over 22,000 companies, DMCC offers a strategic location in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) with access to world-class infrastructure, business services, and networking opportunities.
License Types Available
Trading License
For buying, selling, and distributing goods. Includes general trading, commodities, and specialized trading activities.
Service License
For consulting, IT services, marketing, recruitment, and other professional services.
Industrial License
For manufacturing, processing, and assembly of goods within the free zone.
Dual License
Combination of trading and service activities under one license.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Clear copies of passports for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or bank statement (within 3 months)
- Business Plan: Brief description of business activities and target market
- CV/Resume: For all shareholders (for certain license types)
- No Objection Certificate: If currently employed in UAE (for UAE residents)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Choose License Type & Trade Name
Select appropriate license category and reserve your company name through DMCC portal
Timeline: 1-2 days
Submit Application & Documents
Complete online application and upload required documents
Timeline: 1-2 days
Initial Approval
DMCC reviews application and issues initial approval letter
Timeline: 3-5 business days
Payment & Lease Agreement
Pay license fees and sign office lease agreement (flexi-desk, office, or warehouse)
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Issuance
Receive trade license and start business operations
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visa & Bank Account
Apply for residence visas and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
DMCC Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 15,000 - 50,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 6,000 |
| Share Capital Deposit | 50,000 (refundable) |
| Flexi-Desk (Annual) | 15,000 - 20,000 |
| Establishment Card | 1,500 |
| Visa Allocation (per visa) | 3,500 - 5,000 |
* Fees are subject to change. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Renew trade license annually before expiry date. Late renewal incurs penalties.
Office Lease Renewal
Maintain valid lease agreement (flexi-desk or physical office) as per DMCC requirements.
Financial Statements
Submit audited financial statements if required based on company size and activity.
Corporate Tax Filing
Register for Corporate Tax and file annual returns. QFZP status may provide 0% CT on qualifying income.
VAT Filing (if applicable)
Register for VAT if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 threshold. File quarterly returns.
Economic Substance Reporting
Submit annual ESR notification and report for relevant activities.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
DMCC 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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