GCC - Gulf Craft City Umm Al Quwain
Complete guide to registering your company in Gulf Craft City Free Zone. Understand requirements, fees, registration process, and annual compliance obligations for marine industry businesses.
About Gulf Craft City
Gulf Craft City (GCC) is a specialized free zone in Umm Al Quwain focused on the marine industry, boat building, yacht manufacturing, and maritime services. Home to Gulf Craft, one of the world's leading luxury yacht manufacturers, GCC offers unique opportunities for marine-related businesses with direct waterfront access, boat building facilities, and maritime infrastructure.
License Types Available
Marine Manufacturing
For boat building, yacht manufacturing, marine vessel assembly, and watercraft production.
Marine Trading License
For trading in marine equipment, boat parts, yacht accessories, and maritime supplies.
Maritime Services
For yacht maintenance, boat repair, marine surveying, and maritime consultancy services.
Marine Engineering
For naval architecture, marine design, engineering consultancy, and technical services.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Clear copies of passports for all shareholders, directors, and managers
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or bank statement for company principals
- Business Plan: Detailed plan outlining marine activities, production capacity, and target markets
- Technical Qualifications: For manufacturing licenses, proof of technical expertise in marine/boat building
- Emirates ID: Copy of valid Emirates ID (if applicable for UAE resident shareholders)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Choose Marine License Type
Select appropriate marine industry license and reserve company trade name
Timeline: 1-2 days
Submit Application & Documents
Complete application form with business plan and upload required documents
Timeline: 2-3 days
Initial Approval
GCC reviews application and issues initial approval certificate
Timeline: 3-5 business days
Facility Selection & Lease
Choose office, warehouse, or waterfront facility and sign lease agreement
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Issuance & Payment
Pay license fees and receive trade license and establishment documents
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visa & Bank Account Setup
Process residence visas and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
GCC Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 8,000 - 15,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 1,500 |
| Office Space (Annual) | 10,000 - 30,000 |
| Warehouse/Workshop (Annual) | 30,000 - 100,000 |
| Waterfront Facility (Annual) | 50,000 - 200,000 |
| Visa Quota (per visa) | 3,000 - 4,500 |
* Fees vary based on facility type and business activities. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Renew trade license annually before expiry date. Late renewal incurs penalties.
Facility Lease Renewal
Maintain valid lease agreement for office, workshop, or waterfront facility.
Financial Statements
Submit annual financial statements. Manufacturing companies may require audited accounts.
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.
Safety & Environmental Compliance
For manufacturing facilities, maintain safety certifications and environmental permits.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
Gulf Craft City 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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