DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is the world’s top-ranked free zone and a preferred choice for trading, commodity, and professional services companies. This step-by-step guide covers the full DMCC registration process.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
DMCC licenses over 600 business activities across categories including general trading, commodities, technology, professional services, and financial services. Select the activities that match your business — multiple activities can be included in one licence. Common choices: General Trading, Management Consulting, IT Services, Precious Metals and Stones Trading, and Coffee Trading.
Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name
Log in to the DMCC Member Portal (dmcc.ae) and search for name availability. DMCC naming rules: the name must not conflict with existing UAE companies, must be in English (Arabic optional), and cannot contain restricted words without ministerial approval. Name reservation costs AED 100 and is valid for 30 days.
Step 3: Choose Your Office Space
DMCC requires a physical DMCC address. Options: Flexi Desk (AED 13,500/year in DMCC premises), Serviced Office (AED 35,000–80,000/year), or Business Centre (AED 20,000–50,000/year). Virtual offices are not accepted for DMCC company registration.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Submit your application through the DMCC Member Portal. Required documents: passport copies of all shareholders and directors, NOC letter (if shareholder is currently employed in UAE), proposed company name and activities, office space booking confirmation, and completed DMCC application forms.
Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive Licence
DMCC registration fees: Registration fee AED 10,000 (one-time) + annual licence fee AED 20,720 (for a standard FZE or FZCO). After payment, DMCC issues your licence within 5–10 working days. Total first-year cost: AED 30,720 + office space.
Step 6: Apply for Residence Visas
With your DMCC licence, apply for UAE residence visas. DMCC allows up to 6 visas for a flexi desk package. Submit visa applications through the DMCC Member Portal, complete medical fitness tests and biometrics, and receive your UAE residence visa within 2–4 weeks.