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DMCC

A Government of Dubai free zone in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, known for commodities trading, a wide range of services and a crypto and Web3 community.

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Overview

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is a Government of Dubai authority, established in 2002 and based in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) and the neighbouring Uptown Dubai development. It is well known for commodities such as gold, diamonds, tea and coffee, but today it licenses a wide range of trading and service businesses.

DMCC also runs dedicated communities for sectors such as crypto, gaming and AI, including the DMCC Crypto Centre. Note that regulated virtual asset activities in Dubai (outside DIFC) need a licence from VARA, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, as well as a DMCC licence. Almahira provides licensing support here, not investment advice or virtual asset services.

Good for

  • Commodities and international trading companies
  • Established businesses that want a well-known Dubai address
  • Crypto, Web3 and blockchain technology companies
  • Teams that want to work from the JLT business district

Things to consider

  • Often costs more than smaller free zones, especially once office space is included
  • Virtual asset services also need VARA authorisation
  • Selling directly to UAE mainland customers usually needs a distributor, a mainland branch or a specific permit
  • Some activities have extra requirements, such as approvals from other authorities

Fees, packages and visa quotas change often; we confirm current figures in your consultation.

Common questions

Is DMCC only for commodity traders?

No. DMCC began with commodities, but it now licenses a wide range of trading, services and technology businesses.

Can I set up a crypto business in DMCC?

DMCC has a dedicated crypto community, the DMCC Crypto Centre. If your business carries out regulated virtual asset activities, such as running an exchange or custody, you also need a licence from VARA, which DMCC coordinates with. Technology and software activities may need only a DMCC licence. We help you work out which applies, but we do not provide virtual asset services ourselves.

Where will my office be?

DMCC companies must have a registered address in the zone, in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district. Options range from flexi-desks and serviced offices to private offices, and your choice affects your visa allocation.

Can I set up a DMCC company without being in Dubai?

Largely, yes. DMCC runs company setup through its online portal: you apply for pre-approval, pay and sign documents digitally, and receive an electronic licence. You still need to be in the UAE for residence visa steps such as the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics, and most banks want to meet the account signatory.

Will my DMCC company pay 0% corporate tax?

Not automatically. A DMCC company pays 0% only on qualifying income, and only if it meets the Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions, including real substance in the zone, audited accounts and a cap on other revenue. Income that does not qualify, which often includes sales to mainland customers or to individuals, is taxed at 9%. Check your income mix with a tax adviser first.

Guides for choosing and running your company

Sources

Is DMCC right for you?

Tell us what you sell, who to and how many people you plan to hire. We compare options and confirm current fees and visa quotas.

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Or call +971 52 210 4014 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM)