DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)
The world's most-awarded free zone and a global hub for commodities trade.
Overview
DMCC is Dubai's largest and most prestigious free zone and a global hub for commodities (gold, diamonds, tea, coffee, agri-commodities) alongside a broad base of trading, professional and technology firms. With 20,000+ member companies, a mature ecosystem and strong banking acceptance, it suits established businesses and serious traders who value reputation and infrastructure.
Key benefits
- 100% foreign ownership, 0% tax on qualifying income, full repatriation
- Internationally recognised — repeatedly 'Global Free Zone of the Year'
- Deep commodities ecosystem (DMCC Tradeflow, vaults, Dubai Diamond Exchange)
- Strong banking credibility — smoother account opening than budget zones
- Option to buy commercial office property in JLT with a title deed
- 20+ sectors and flexible office / flexi-desk options
Business activities & licenses
DMCC supports a range of license types and activities, including:
- General & specialised trading (gold, diamonds, precious metals, energy)
- Professional & management consulting
- Technology & FinTech-adjacent services
- FMCG, construction, healthcare, aviation
- Holding companies
Ownership & visas
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
Visa allocation scales with office / flexi-desk size — effectively unlimited subject to leased space.
Cost & timeline
License from ~AED 7,500–35,000 by activity; realistic first-year all-in (1 owner + 1 visa) commonly AED 35,000–65,000 with flexi-desk.
~1–4 weeks depending on activity and workspace.
Prices are indicative starting points, not quotes. Government and free-zone fees change frequently — we confirm current, all-in figures before you commit.
Is DMCC right for you?
Established traders — especially in commodities — international companies and serious businesses that prioritise reputation, banking credibility and a mature ecosystem over lowest cost.
What makes DMCC different
- Home to the Dubai Diamond Exchange and major precious-metals infrastructure.
- One of the largest free zones in the world by member count.
Compare alternatives
How DMCC compares
| Free zone | Emirate | License from* | Typical timeline | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DMCC This page | Dubai | AED 20,000/yr | ~1–4 weeks depending on activity and workspace | Commodities · General trading |
| IFZA → | Dubai | AED 12,900/yr | License in ~3–5 working days (fast-track available) | Consultants · E-commerce |
| Meydan → | Dubai | AED 12,500/yr | A few days to ~1 week (digital process) | Agencies · Consultants |
| DIFC → | Dubai | AED 25,000/yr | ~3–5 weeks non-financial; longer for DFSA-regulated firms | Finance · Funds |
* Indicative license-only starting points for budgeting — not quotes. Compare all 17 zones
DMCC — frequently asked questions
01How much does it cost to set up in DMCC?＋
License from ~AED 7,500–35,000 by activity; realistic first-year all-in (1 owner + 1 visa) commonly AED 35,000–65,000 with flexi-desk. These are indicative figures for budgeting — Incorporate Dubai will confirm current, all-in pricing for your activity and visa needs.
02Can I own 100% of my DMCC company?＋
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
03How many visas can I get with DMCC?＋
Visa allocation scales with office / flexi-desk size — effectively unlimited subject to leased space.
04How long does DMCC setup take?＋
~1–4 weeks depending on activity and workspace. Timelines depend on document readiness, visa processing and bank onboarding.
05Who is DMCC best for?＋
Established traders — especially in commodities — international companies and serious businesses that prioritise reputation, banking credibility and a mature ecosystem over lowest cost.