DMCC Company Formation in Dubai
Set up in Dubai DMCC — the world’s #1 free zone. 0% tax on qualifying income. Crypto desk available. 1 visa included. Trade license + flexi-desk. Ready in 1–2 weeks. From USD $6,500.
Why set up in DMCC Dubai?
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has been named the world’s #1 Free Zone for nine consecutive years by the Financial Times’ fDi Magazine. With over 23,000 registered companies, DMCC is the largest and most diverse free zone in the UAE, offering more than 1,100 activity types across commodities, trading, technology, and services.
DMCC companies enjoy 0% corporate tax on qualifying free zone income under the UAE’s new corporate tax regime introduced in June 2023. There is 0% personal income tax, full repatriation of profits, and no currency restrictions. Companies can operate globally from DMCC while maintaining a prestigious JLT (Jumeirah Lakes Towers) address.
For crypto and blockchain companies, DMCC is particularly attractive. The DMCC Crypto Centre provides dedicated infrastructure for blockchain businesses, and companies can access crypto desk services for trading digital assets. For full regulatory licensing, VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) provides a comprehensive framework accessible from DMCC or mainland structures.
DMCC offers flexible workspace options from flexi-desks (included in the base package) to dedicated offices. Every license includes visa allocation, with additional visas available based on office space. The free zone is located in JLT, one of Dubai’s most connected business districts with excellent transport links and amenities.
#1 Free Zone
9 years running (fDi)
0% Tax
Qualifying income
Crypto Ready
Crypto Centre access
23K+ Companies
Global business hub
DMCC Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
FZE (Free Zone Establishment)
MOST POPULARThe FZE is the standard entity type for DMCC. It can have a single shareholder or multiple shareholders. 100% foreign ownership is permitted. The entity operates under DMCC regulations and can trade globally. A trade license specifies the permitted business activities, and companies can hold multiple activity types under a single license.
Best for: Trading, e-commerce, consulting, technology, crypto, commodities, services, holding companies.
Detailed cost breakdown
DMCC costs include the trade license fee, registration fee, establishment card, and workspace. Our all-inclusive package at USD $6,500 covers trade license, DMCC registration, establishment card, 1 visa allocation, flexi-desk (1 year), and MOA preparation. Additional visas, office upgrades, and crypto desk access are available as add-ons.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| DMCC FZE (all-inclusive) | From USD $6,500 |
| Additional visa (each) | From $2,000 |
| Office upgrade (per year) | From $8,000 |
| Crypto desk access | From $3,000 |
| Bank account opening | From $500 |
| Annual renewal (license + card) | From $5,000 |
| VARA license application | From $25,000 |
DMCC tax structure
Under the UAE’s corporate tax regime (effective June 2023), DMCC free zone companies pay 0% on qualifying income. Qualifying income includes transactions with other free zone entities, specified international transactions, and other qualifying activities. Non-qualifying income is subject to 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is 0% personal income tax, 0% withholding tax, and 5% VAT (with many exemptions for free zone companies). The UAE has signed 130+ DTAs for treaty access.
UAE residence visa through DMCC
Every DMCC trade license includes at least 1 visa allocation. Additional visas are available based on office space type: flexi-desk (1-3 visas), shared office (4-6 visas), dedicated office (varies by size). The UAE residence visa is valid for 2-3 years and provides residency in Dubai, access to banking, and the ability to sponsor family members. DMCC also offers the Golden Visa pathway for qualifying entrepreneurs and investors.
Visa processing typically takes 1-2 weeks after company formation. Required documents include passport copies, passport-size photos, health insurance, and Emirates ID application. We handle the full visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID issuance.
DMCC vs DIFC vs Dubai Mainland
DMCC, DIFC, and Dubai Mainland serve different business needs. DMCC is ideal for trading, commodities, technology, and general business with the best balance of cost and prestige. DIFC is the premium option for financial services, funds, and institutions with its own common law courts and DFSA regulation, but at a significantly higher cost ($15,000+). Dubai Mainland offers the most flexibility for local trading and government contracts but requires a UAE national service agent. For most international entrepreneurs, DMCC provides the optimal combination of cost, credibility, and operational flexibility.
DMCC company formation FAQ
How much does DMCC company formation cost?
DMCC registration and license fees total approximately AED 10,000-15,000 depending on activity type. Full-service packages from USD $6,500 including trade license, establishment card, 1 visa allocation, and flexi-desk. Annual renewal costs are approximately $5,000-7,000.
Can I set up a DMCC company remotely?
Yes. DMCC allows fully remote incorporation. The entire process including trade license issuance, establishment card, and visa processing can be completed without visiting Dubai. Document signing is done remotely via power of attorney.
What is included in a DMCC package?
Standard DMCC package includes trade license, 1 visa allocation, flexi-desk workspace (1 year), establishment card, MOA preparation, and all DMCC registration fees. Additional visas, office upgrades, and crypto desk access are available as add-ons.
Can I get a crypto license through DMCC?
DMCC offers crypto desk access through the DMCC Crypto Centre for trading digital assets. For full regulatory licensing under VARA, you may need a mainland Dubai entity or DIFC entity depending on your specific activities. We provide advisory on the optimal structure for your crypto business.
What is the tax rate in DMCC?
0% on qualifying free zone income. UAE corporate tax of 9% applies only to non-qualifying income exceeding AED 375,000. 0% personal income tax. 0% withholding tax. 5% VAT with most free zone transactions exempt. The UAE has 130+ DTAs.
How long does DMCC setup take?
1-2 weeks for standard setup from receipt of all documents. Visa processing adds 1-2 additional weeks. Express service available for urgent incorporations.
Why DMCC over other Dubai free zones?
DMCC is ranked world’s #1 free zone for 9 consecutive years. It offers the most diverse activity range (1,100+ types), crypto desk access, strongest global recognition, and largest business community (23,000+ companies). Other free zones like RAKEZ or IFZA are cheaper but lack DMCC’s prestige and activity breadth.
Can I open a bank account?
Yes. DMCC companies are readily accepted by all major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We provide introductions and handle the full application. Account opening typically takes 1-3 weeks after company formation.
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