Company Formation in Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC)
The Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC), launched in 2002, has turned into a strong business hub for global trade. It supports gold, diamond, and precious metals trading. It also helps Dubai earn nearly 11% of its total foreign direct investment. This makes it a key pillar of the city’s economy.
For ten years in a row, the DMCC has been recognized as the world’s top free zone by fDi Magazine (2015–2024). Its success comes from Dubai’s central location, modern infrastructure, and investor-friendly laws. Businesses here enjoy low taxes, simplified processes, and a vast network of international connections.
From small startups to global corporations, DMCC offers every business type a chance to grow and thrive.
Why Choose DMCC for Company Formation
Forming a company in DMCC offers great freedom and stability. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of world-class facilities and flexible options for every industry. Below are the top reasons why DMCC is an ideal destination:
- 0% Corporate Tax: DMCC guarantees 0% corporate and personal income tax for up to 50 years.
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Investors don’t need a local sponsor; full control stays with them.
- Prime Location: DMCC sits in the heart of Dubai, inside the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area.
- World-Class Infrastructure: High-tech offices, modern facilities, and digital setup systems.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to events, conferences, and exclusive business support programs.
- Flexible Licensing: Multi-year licenses help reduce yearly renewal burdens.
- Business-Friendly Policies: Simple regulatory framework and easy repatriation of profits.
DMCC’s ecosystem welcomes industries like commodities trading, technology, media, logistics, e-commerce, and more. Companies also enjoy global visibility and brand credibility because DMCC is recognized by investors worldwide.
Types of Business Licenses in DMCC
DMCC offers many license categories to fit every sector. Entrepreneurs can choose a license that matches their business activity:
- Commercial License: For import, export, and trading of goods.
- Service License: For professional or consultancy businesses such as IT, marketing, or accounting.
- Industrial License: For light manufacturing and product assembly.
- Retail License: For shops, showrooms, or e-commerce operations.
- Education License: For training institutes, schools, or universities.
- Media License: For advertising, publishing, or production houses.
- Health License: For medical centers and healthcare suppliers.
- Branch License: For foreign companies opening regional branches.
- Crypto Centre License: For blockchain and digital asset businesses regulated under VARA.
Each license is issued under clear DMCC guidelines, helping businesses operate safely and legally.
Steps to Form a Company in DMCC
Setting up a company in DMCC is a simple and digital process. Here’s how it works:
- Choose Your Activity: Select the nature of your business from over 900 permitted activities.
- Select Company Type: Choose between a Free Zone Company (FZC/FZE), Branch Office, or Representative Office.
- Register a Trade Name: Pick a unique business name that follows DMCC naming standards.
- Apply for a License: Submit documents for the selected license type.
- Secure Office Space: Rent or lease an office within DMCC – options include flexi desks or full offices.
- Open a Bank Account: Set up a corporate account with a UAE bank.
- Get Visas and Permits: Process investor, employee, and dependent visas.
Timeline: Most companies complete setup within 5–10 working days, depending on activity and document readiness.
Business Activities Permitted in DMCC
The DMCC supports a broad range of industries. Entrepreneurs can engage in:
- Trading: Import/export of gold, diamonds, jewelry, electronics, and consumer goods.
- Finance: Financial consulting, insurance, and investment services.
- Logistics: Freight forwarding, warehousing, and supply chain operations.
- IT and Telecommunications: Software, app development, and tech support.
- Healthcare: Medical centers, laboratories, and health product trading.
- Education: Schools, training centers, and e-learning firms.
- Real Estate: Property management and investment companies.
- Tourism and Hospitality: Travel agencies, hotels, and tourism platforms.
- Crypto and Blockchain: Regulated digital asset businesses under VARA.
This wide list allows investors to diversify their operations while staying compliant with UAE laws.
Documents Required for DMCC Company Formation
To register a company in DMCC, applicants must prepare these essential documents:
- Filled Application Form through the DMCC online portal.
- Business Plan outlining operations and future goals.
- Trade Name Approval Certificate from DMCC.
- Passport Copies of shareholders, directors, and managers.
- Proof of Address – valid utility bill or bank statement (not older than six months).
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA) notarized by DMCC or UAE authority.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the applicant holds an existing UAE visa.
Additional documents may be required for specific sectors or high-risk activities. Ensuring accuracy during submission helps avoid delays.
Visa Options under DMCC
DMCC provides various visa categories for investors, employees, and family members.
1. Investor Visa:
For business owners and shareholders establishing their company in DMCC.
2. Employment Visa:
For company employees, managers, and skilled professionals.
3. Dependent Visa:
For family members such as spouses, children, and parents of investors or employees.
Key Points:
- Visa quota depends on office size and license type.
- Health insurance and Emirates ID registration are mandatory.
- Long-term visas available for qualifying investors.
This structured system helps businesses and families enjoy a smooth residency experience in Dubai.
How to Obtain a Visa in DMCC
Once your company is set up, follow these steps to obtain a visa:
- Initial Approval: Submit your visa application through the DMCC portal.
- Medical Test: Complete a medical fitness test at an authorized Dubai health center.
- Apply for Emirates ID: After the medical test, register for your Emirates ID with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
- Visa Stamping: The visa gets stamped on your passport at the UAE Immigration Office.
- Collect Emirates ID: Once approved, collect your Emirates ID as proof of UAE residency.
Always check updated DMCC and UAE immigration guidelines before applying.
Challenges During DMCC Company Setup
While DMCC provides unmatched benefits, a few challenges can arise:
- Regulatory Compliance: Understanding DMCC’s detailed laws can be difficult for new investors.
- Document Preparation: Collecting and validating legal paperwork takes time.
- Cost Factors: Setup costs (office rent, visa, license) may be high for startups.
- Bank Account Opening: UAE banks follow strict verification and KYC processes.
- Competition: The DMCC is a popular free zone, meaning strong market competition.
These challenges can be overcome with the help of experienced business advisors like Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, who simplify every step of the process.
Benefits of Choosing Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing
Partnering with Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing ensures professional guidance and compliance support throughout your DMCC setup.
Our Services Include:
- Step-by-step company registration assistance.
- Complete documentation and trade name approval.
- Tax planning and auditing under UAE laws.
- Transparent breakdown of licensing and visa costs.
- Banking coordination for corporate accounts.
- Continuous advisory for compliance and renewals.
As a UAE Ministry of Economy-approved audit firm, Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing delivers expert knowledge of DMCC rules and financial systems. Our consultants help you make the right decisions to grow your company efficiently.
When it comes to launching your business in DMCC, having a trusted auditing and advisory firm by your side saves time and avoids costly mistakes.
What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing
Setting up a company in DMCC is one of the best investments you can make in Dubai. It gives you full ownership, global reach, and a tax-free structure. But understanding each step correctly is vital for success. That’s where Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing can help you.
Our team assists you with:
- Business formation and legal structure selection
- Documentation and application submission
- Visa and Emirates ID processing
- Tax and compliance advisory
- Annual financial audit and bookkeeping support
When it comes to building a profitable business in Dubai, remember — “Success doesn’t come overnight, but it comes to those who prepare their ground well.” That’s the idiom that perfectly describes our clients’ journey.
For More Information:
- Visit our office at Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Or Contact/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
