How to Setup a Business in Dubai DMCC Free Zone
Setting up a company in the DMCC Freezone in Dubai is an ideal way for entrepreneurs to launch in the UAE market.
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) free zone has earned a reputation as the world’s top free zone, thanks to 100% foreign ownership, zero taxes, and a smooth, fully digital setup process.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your business started in Dubai DMCC Free Zone. Whether you’re just exploring or ready to start your business, this guide will help you move forward with confidence.
By the end, you’ll see why DMCC stands out among Dubai’s free zones and how Corporate Business Services (CBS) can assist in setting up your business in DMCC.
Key Takeaways
- DMCC advantages: 100% foreign ownership, zero tax, and a supportive business environment make DMCC an ideal place to start a company.
- Quick setup process: The company formation process is straightforward, fully digital, and usually completed in about 7–10 days.
- Costs and capital: You’ll need AED 50,000 share capital and should budget around AED 50,000 for first-year setup costs (license, fees, office).
- Mainland expansion: DMCC offers dual licensing to expand into mainland Dubai while retaining free zone benefits.
- Get expert help: For a smooth DMCC Freezone company setup in Dubai, consider using an expert like CBS to handle the process for you.
Why Choose DMCC Free Zone for Company Setup in Dubai?
DMCC Free Zone is often considered Dubai’s flagship business hub. Based in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district, DMCC has attracted over 25,000+ companies with its world-class infrastructure and supportive environment.
Some of the top benefits of choosing DMCC for your Dubai company setup include:
- 100% foreign ownership: As a free zone, DMCC allows you to own 100% of your company (no local UAE partner required) and freely repatriate all profits.
- Zero taxes: Enjoy 0% corporate tax and 0% personal income tax in DMCC. Your business earnings are not subject to UAE taxation in the free zone.
- Prime location & business community: Operate in a Dubai district with modern facilities and a thriving business community for networking.
- Fast, hassle-free setup: The company registration process is streamlined and typically takes only about 7–10 days to complete.
- Global reputation & networking: DMCC has been recognized globally as a top free zone (winning Global Free Zone of the Year multiple times).
By joining DMCC, you become part of an elite network of 25,000+ companies, with access to industry events and networking opportunities.
- Mainland business access: Uniquely, DMCC offers a dual licensing option that lets you expand to mainland Dubai. By adding a mainland license to your DMCC company, you can operate onshore in the UAE while still enjoying free zone benefits.
DMCC Freezone Company Setup in Dubai: Step-by-Step Process
Once you decide to proceed with a DMCC freezone company in Dubai, the setup process is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
1.Choose a business activity and legal form:
Decide what you will do (your business activity) and choose the legal structure for your company (usually a Free Zone LLC).
Make sure your chosen activity is permitted under DMCC’s list of business activities.
2.Apply for initial approval:
Submit an online application to DMCC free zone authority for initial approval (including your desired company name and basic documents).
After you pay the application fee, DMCC usually grants the initial approval within one week.
3.Submit documents & pay fees:
Next, submit all required incorporation documents (such as shareholders’ passports, proofs of address, etc.) and pay the required registration and license fees.
DMCC will then issue its final approval and a bank letter for you to deposit the share capital. Once everything is approved, you can move to the final steps of formation.
3.Lease office space:
Secure a physical address in the free zone (at minimum a flexi-desk). Submit your signed lease to DMCC as proof of your office.
4.Receive your DMCC license:
With everything completed, DMCC will issue your business license, MOA, and other incorporation certificates.
Your company is now officially established! The whole process often takes only around 10 working days in total.
After setup, you can open a UAE corporate bank account using your new DMCC company documents. You may also begin obtaining UAE residence visas for yourself and your employees.
DMCC will provide an establishment card to enable visa sponsorship. Notably, DMCC’s strong reputation with banks can make opening your account smoother. The visa application steps (entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID) typically take a few weeks to complete.
DMCC Free Zone Company Setup Cost
Cost Overview: Setting up a company in DMCC typically costs around AED 50,000 in the first year. This estimate includes the company registration, your DMCC license fees, and a flexi-desk office space.
The actual cost can vary based on your business activity, license type, and visa needs. You’ll also need to deposit AED 50,000 as share capital (refundable after incorporation is complete), or AED 1 million if you require a General Trading license.
Overall, DMCC offers great value given these costs. Sometimes, DMCC also runs special promotions or discounts on fees, so it’s worth checking if any offers are available when you apply.
Keep in mind there are annual renewal fees to maintain your DMCC freezone business license in Dubai (and an audit report is required from the second year onwards).
Launch Your DMCC Company with CBS
Setting up a company is easier with expert support. Corporate Business Services (CBS) specializes in UAE business setups and can manage your DMCC company formation from start to finish.
Our team handles the paperwork, approvals, and coordination with DMCC, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Contact CBS today for a free consultation and take the next step toward launching your business in a premium free zone in Dubai.