Founded in 2002, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) stands as one of Dubai's premier free zones and trade hubs. It provides a thriving business ecosystem with extensive support services including trade finance, market insights, and networking avenues, making it an ideal destination for companies to flourish
Increasingly successful over time, DMCC has become a leading free zone in the UAE, drawing in more than 15,000 global companies. Renowned for its pro-business ethos and strong support for startups, SMEs, and the commodities industry, DMCC continues to excel as a business destination.
The DMCC received “Golden Free Zone of the Year” in 2022 for the eighth consecutive time by fDi Magazine. For successful company formation in DMCC, here is what you need to know:
Company Licence Type
Maximize Your Membership Benefits
Our core ethos revolves around our steadfast commitment to being a dependable partner within the DMCC community. Whatever your requirements, rest assured that you can rely on us to deliver the highest standards of service and support, available whenever you need them.
The DMCC Knowledge Series comprises seminars and workshops exclusively tailored for DMCC members. Covering diverse subjects such as market trends, technology training, professional growth, and expert insights, our events offer valuable insights and knowledge.
We host a variety of special interest groups dedicated to specific industry sectors. These groups offer a welcoming and professional platform for you to connect, network, and exchange expertise, knowledge, and skills with fellow members in the sectors that are relevant to your interests.
Stay informed about the latest DMCC Free Zone news, legal updates, upcoming events, business opportunities, and developments through your DMCC members' newsletter.
Registration and licensing represent just one aspect of establishing a business. Moreover, DMCC membership offers a plethora of invaluable benefits, including access to a diverse array of exclusive offers on products and services from trusted providers.
Whether you're in the process of planning a business setup or already an existing member company, our array of services serves as the initial resource for assistance and information concerning DMCC and the pertinent legal and regulatory frameworks you should be aware of.
Participate in our networking events and exhibitions, providing you with opportunities to engage with fellow members of the DMCC community. These events are platforms for knowledge sharing, idea exchange, expanding your contacts, and broadening your business interests.
Your Global Trade and Enterprise Hub
Whether you aim to launch a new enterprise or establish a fully owned subsidiary within DMCC, we ensure a swift, straightforward, and transparent process. Our welcoming team of specialists will lead you through each stage, ensuring a prompt start to your venture.
Indicate Your Interest
Select your preferred license type and specify your business activities.
Familiarize yourself with the necessary documentation and associated expenses.
Once you submit your inquiry, a DMCC representative will generate and provide access to your personalized portal account, enabling you to commence the online application process.
Each company receives a license tailored to its specific business activities. While the license is activity-specific, companies have the option to apply for multiple licenses or opt for a general trading license. We offer three primary license types:
Additionally, we provide alternative structural options like the Single Family Office, which serves to centralize family wealth management, handle personal affairs, aid in succession planning, and manage shares in family businesses, assets, trusts, and foundations.
Fees:
Initial application: AED 1,035 (one-time charge)
Registration: AED 9,020 (one-time charge)
Articles of Association (AoA): AED 2,020 (one-time charge)
License: AED 20,285 (annual fee)* *Price varies based on activity
Establishment card: AED 1,825 (annual fee)
Residence Visa:
DMCC Free Zone offers licenses with validity periods of 1, 2, and 3 years. Opting for a 2-year validity period provides a 5% discount on the total license fee, while a 3-year validity period offers a 10% discount on the total license fee.
Share Capital Requirements:
The minimum share capital required for a DMCC Free Zone company is AED 50,000 per company. This share capital must be deposited in the company's UAE bank account within six months from the issuance date of the company's license and can be withdrawn thereafter.
Complete Your Online Application
For business setup in DMCC, fill out the form, process the initial application fee of AED 1,035, and then proceed to submit your application.
DMCC will then handle company name reservation, management, and compliance approval.
Complete the payment, sign the required documents, and submit them as instructed.
Afterward, proceed with the payment of the registration and license fees and ensure that you sign all the necessary legal documents.
DMCC will then grant you provisional approval and provide a bank letter, facilitating the opening of a company bank account.
Our entirely digital setup process allows you to establish your business in Dubai from any location worldwide, eliminating the need for an in-person visit to DMCC.
Select the Office Solution That Fits Your Needs
In the final step, sign and submit the required documents for your new office space.
DMCC will then provide you with your E-Licence, making you fully prepared to conduct business within DMCC.
Typically, the process to set up a company takes approximately 10 working days on average.
The average timeline to setup a company takes around 10 working days.
Apply Now
Digital Pre-Approval Application Form
Residential Address Verification
Examples: Utillity bill or Bank Statement
DMCC Office Address Details
Needed post-company registration.
Regulated Activity Third-Party Approvals
passport Copy
Iclude UAE Residence Visa and Emirates' ID Copy if Applicable.
Parent Company Document Copies
Necessary for Subsidiary Establishment.
Establish in Dubai's Premier Business Hub
Recipient of Eight 'Global Free Zone of the Year' Awards by the Financial Times fDi Magazine, DMCC offers top-notch services, networking prospects, and adaptable office solutions for business expansion. With customized packages for startups, SMEs, entrepreneurs, and medium-large enterprises, you can reduce your setup expenses while accessing numerous advantages.
In collaboration with the Dubai government, we provide comprehensive support for all your visa and employment needs. Visa applications can be conveniently processed through our member portal, typically receiving approval from the Immigration Department within three to five working days.
Apply for visa Employment and Visitor Visas
Apply for, renew, cancel, or make amendments to a visa via DMCC.
Employment Contracts
We offer a variety of employment contracts tailored to meet your specific business requirements.
Letter Services and General Immigration Administration
We have direct dealings with the Immigration Department and can facilitate requests for specific letters that you may need for your employees and business.
Access and Identity Cards
If you require assistance with applying for access or identity cards, we are here to help.
Unlock Savings of Up to 24% on Your Business License and Essential Business Tools.
Select your preferred license type and specify your business activities.Familiarize yourself with the necessary documentation and associated expenses.Once you submit your inquiry, a DMCC representative will generate and provide access to your personalized portal account, enabling you to commence the online application process.
Fast access to major markets via two major ports, five international airports, multi-lane highways, and upcoming rail connections that link KEZAD Group's economic cities and free zones to the wider UAE and GCC regions.
Streamlined and adaptable company formation processes.
Availability of ancillary entities like raw material providers, packaging suppliers, and specialized logistics services within the zone.
KEZAD Group serves as the sole point of contact for all approval processes.
Choice to operate in local, regional, and global markets utilizing Free Zone and Domestic Economic Zone facilities.
Versatility in lease duration and structuring, offering tailored options.
Comprehensive infrastructure accommodating diverse business sizes, from startups to large-scale projects.
Forward-looking development with provisions for future expansion and integration with new ventures.
Multiple residential and social areas, along with leisure facilities, reachable within a 10-minute drive.
Availability of multiple on-site staff accommodation options.
Zoned approach featuring shared amenities for enhanced planning and more efficient client development.
Dedicated zones designed specifically for SMEs, logistics, and business parks.
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding obtaining a license with Sharjah Media City (Shams). Please be aware that these answers may change based on UAE government directives. If you need more information or have questions, feel free to reach out to our team via live chat, the contact form, or by calling 800-SHAMS (74267).
Credit card payments are accepted by Sharjah Media City (Shams).
At the moment, we require full upfront payments. However, some banks might offer the option to convert your payment into a monthly installment plan.
The address of your company will be at Sharjah Media City (Shams).
Certainly, you have the option to obtain your own P.O. Box for which there is an annual fee. Feel free to reach out to our concierge service desk for further details.
Certainly, you have the flexibility to adjust your chosen business activities even after your company has been incorporated.
Indeed, a NOC from your current sponsor is not needed for this purpose.
You'll receive a list of banks along with their contact information. Representatives from Sharjah Islamic Bank and RAK Bank are available at the Shams office to assist with your inquiries.
Certainly! Our phone answering services are available. For more information, kindly call us +971 4 386 5550
No, you will retain full ownership (100%) of your company.
You can establish a branch or subsidiary with the approval of the relevant authorities.
As per Federal Decree-Law No. (8) of 2017 on Value Added Tax, businesses registered in Sharjah Media City (Shams) will need to undergo VAT registration. Shams provides VAT registration services for its clients. Visit shams.ae/vat to verify eligibility and complete registration. Additionally, a 5% VAT will be imposed by Shams on specific goods and services.
An Import/Export code can be acquired from any UAE port.
No
Certainly, you have the option to apply for a code directly from Customs.
We do not offer it, but you can independently apply for a Chamber of Commerce certificate.
