The DMCC Free Zone, located in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers, is a premier destination for business setup in Dubai. Known as the Dubai Multi Commodity Centre, it’s celebrated for its top trade facilities. On nine occasions, the Financial Times magazine has named it ‘Global Free Zone of the Year.

Exploring DMCC Free Zone

What is DMCC in Dubai?

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, known as DMCC, was established in 2002, evolving into a central hub for global commodities trade and a home for over 24,000+ businesses. Spanning across various industries, DMCC caters to a staggering array of over 600 business activities, making it a versatile and inclusive multi-commodities center for enterprises of all types.

What is a DMCC License?

A DMCC license is an official permit issued by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), allowing businesses to operate within the DMCC Free Zone in Dubai. This license is crucial for companies to conduct their activities legally and benefit from the Free Zone’s advantageous business environment.

Activities Available in DMCC Free Zone

The DMCC Free Zone offers a diverse range of business activities, including:

• Trading
• Logistics
• Consumer goods
• Niche trading sectors

DMCC is designed to support a wide variety of industries. It provides excellent facilities, including warehouses and retail spaces, enabling companies to customize their operations for market needs.

They also stand out as a forward-thinking free zone by supporting cryptocurrency trading and positioning businesses at the forefront of modern finance. Additionally, companies benefit from flexible workspace options, from traditional offices to flexi desks, all supported by DMCC’s excellent infrastructure.

Types of Licenses Available

To accommodate the diverse business ecosystem within its area, DMCC offers three main types of licenses:

1. Trading license: Ideal for businesses involved in buying and selling goods.
2. Industrial license: For enterprises engaged in manufacturing or processing activities.
3. Service license: For a broad spectrum of services, from healthcare to creative pursuits

These licenses are tailored to address various industries’ specific requirements, with eligibility for over 600 business activities.

Benefits of Setting Up A DMCC Company

Now that you know more about DMCC Free Zone companies, let’s look at their benefits:

1. Tax-Friendly Environment for Businesses

Dubai stands out for its appealing tax setup, especially with no personal income tax. This advantage means you can keep more of your earnings to reinvest in expanding your business or savings, making it a prime spot for new and seasoned entrepreneurs.

2. Complete Ownership of Your Business

The region supports foreign investors by allowing them to own their companies fully. This benefit lets you return all your share capital and earnings to your country, offering financial freedom and a sense of security for further investments or personal savings.

3. Strategic Location in Dubai

Located at the core of Dubai’s new districts, your business gets immediate access to quality transport, tech, and corporate infrastructures. This prime positioning is perfect for leveraging Dubai’s economic growth and connecting with global markets.

4. Adaptable Office Spaces

Dubai offers a variety of office spaces that can be adjusted to meet different business sizes and needs. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, numerous options exist to find the perfect space for your business.

5. Easy Online Services Access

With the DMCC Member Portal, accessing essential services is straightforward and can be done anywhere. This ease of access helps manage your business more efficiently, freeing time for other essential tasks.

6. Vibrant Professional Community

Joining Dubai’s energetic community puts you amid 80,000 professionals who welcome around 100,000 residents and visitors. This melting pot of cultures and professions enhances networking opportunities and enriches the community’s dynamism.

7. Wide Networking Potential

The networking possibilities are vast, with over 24,000+ companies from over 180 countries engaging in more than 600 activities. This international blend of companies fosters collaboration and innovation within a supportive environment.

8. Easy Business Start-Up

Dubai simplifies the process of starting a business with various licensing options that are both flexible and economical. This streamlined approach helps you concentrate on growing your business and exploring new ventures.

Cost Involved with DMCC Company Setup

Establishing a business presence in the DMCC Free Zone is associated with transparent and well-defined costs.

The cost of setting up a DMCC company includes the following major fees:

• DMCC license
• One-time registration fees
• Facility rent (flexi-desk, office, or warehouse).

If you want to find out the exact cost of starting your business in the UAE, you can use our cost calculator. Just answer a few quick questions about your business, and you’ll receive a customized breakdown of your setup costs.

Understanding the Cost Structure

The cost structure for setting up a business in the DMCC Free Zone is straightforward and varies based on several factors:

• License Type: The choice between trading, industrial, or service license affects the overall cost.
• Visa Quota: The number of visas required for staff can alter the cost, as more visas mean higher government fees.
• Initial Setup Fees: One-time fees for company incorporation and registration.
• Annual License Renewal: Costs incurred each year to renew the business license.

These elements combine to form the financial framework of your business setup in DMCC, influencing both the start-up and ongoing expenses.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough for DMCC Company Setup

Step 1: Discovering the Right Business Structure

Your journey to setting up a DMCC company begins with a personalized consultation with us, your expert Business Setup Consultants. Here’s how we assist:

• We’ll have a detailed discussion to understand your business vision and objectives.
• Based on our conversation, we’ll identify the DMCC license that aligns with your business activities and goals.
• We’ll explain the advantages of each business structure, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.

Step 2: Streamlining the Application Process

Once the proper business structure is determined, we’ll manage the application process:

• We’ll gather all the necessary documentation, fill out the forms, and handle the submission process.
• Our team will facilitate provisional approval, allowing you to open a corporate bank account.
• We’ll ensure you can complete these steps from your location, providing a hassle-free experience.

Step 3: Finalizing Your DMCC Business Setup

To complete your business setup, we’ll take care of the final steps:

• We’ll oversee the collection and submission of the remaining documents for your office space.
• Our team will ensure the prompt delivery of your DMCC E-Licence, officially launching your business in Dubai’s premier free zone.

To Qualify or Retain a DMCC license

To qualify and uphold a DMCC license, there are specific criteria that businesses must meet:

• You must have a valid lease for office space or be the registered owner of the freehold office space within DMCC. The operational premises must be within the DMCC center to foster a centralized business environment.
• Conform to any applicable federal and municipal legislation, ensuring legal compliance and adherence to the highest standards of business conduct.
• To maintain the quality and integrity of the DMCC Free Zone, adhere to the Operating Regulations and all other applicable DMCCA directives.
• DMCC licenses are valid for one year from the date of issuance and can be renewed annually. To renew, the business must either hold a valid lease for office space within the DMCC from which it operates or be the registered owner of freehold office space within the DMCC.

These requirements ensure that businesses operating in the DMCC Free Zone are committed to excellence and well-positioned to contribute to the dynamic and thriving business community.

Get Your DMCC Free Zone License Today

Are you considering enhancing your business profile by entering the DMCC Free Zone? This prestigious area in Dubai is renowned for its business-friendly environment and the esteemed DMCC license, which opens doors to a vibrant commercial world.

At Business Setup Consultants DMCC, we specialize in making your whole company registration and setup journey smooth and straightforward. Our professional team is ready to guide you through every step, ensuring that you secure your DMCC license efficiently and start reaping the benefits of operating in this free zone.

With our expertise, obtaining a DMCC license becomes clear and straightforward. We’ll provide all the necessary support to ensure your business meets the DMCC Free Zone standards and thrives in its new setting.

Take the first step towards a successful business setup in Dubai by contacting Business Setup Consultants DMCC. We promise a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on what you do best – growing your business.

Dubai CommerCity is the Middle East’s premier free zone focused exclusively on e-commerce. It provides a strategic location and advanced facilities to boost the growth of online businesses.

Located near Dubai International Airport and featuring a robust infrastructure, it offers entrepreneurs and established companies a unique opportunity to thrive in the expanding e-commerce market.

Exploring Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity, covering an area of 2.1 million square feet and constructed with an investment nearing $1 billion, is the region’s pioneering hub for e-commerce.

The hub’s proximity to Dubai International Airport adds to its advantages. Designed with the growth of digital businesses in mind, Dubai CommerCity offers a supportive ecosystem for your company’s expansion.

The facilities are organized into three main areas, each outfitted with the latest technology to enhance business competitiveness:

• The Business Cluster: Features premium Grade A offices that are available for leasing. These spaces comply with the ‘Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design’ standards for sustainability.
• The Logistics Cluster: Equipped with communal storage spaces and modular Light Industrial Units (LIU), all utilizing solar power to minimize environmental impact.
• The Social Cluster: A dynamic area filled with retail stores, dining options, and venues suitable for conferences and exhibitions.

As you can see, Dubai CommerCity is a fully integrated e-commerce hub designed to cater to the modern needs of digital business enterprises.

Company Type in Dubai CommerCity

• Public Limited Liability Company (PLLC): No limit on the number of shareholders. Suited for companies intending to list shares on a securities market.
• Free Zone Company (FZC): Can have 1-50 shareholders, whether individuals or corporate entities. Minimum share capital is set at AED 1 (USD 0.27).
• Free Zone Entity (Branch): Operates as a branch office of an existing company, with no separate share capital required.

License Type in Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity offers a range of license types tailored to meet various business requirements:

• products.
• Service License: For businesses that provide specific services within their licensed scope.
• Industrial License: Allows light industrial work, product assembly, and manufacturing.
• E-Commerce License: For businesses selling goods or services online.
• General Trading License: Covers a broad spectrum of trading activities.
• Dual License with DED: This enables businesses to operate within DCC and hold a DED License without needing a mainland office.

Activities Available in Dubai CommerCity

Under the umbrella of the various license types, Dubai CommerCity delineates specific activity types to define the scope of business operations permitted within the free zone. With over 1500 business activities to choose from, entrepreneurs and companies can precisely align their operations with their business model.

Whether you want to engage in Industrial, Service, or other business activities, Dubai CommerCity offers a comprehensive list to suit your needs. You can explore the full list of these activities and find the perfect match for your e-commerce venture here.

The Three Clusters of Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity stands out with its three innovative clusters designed to create a complete e-commerce environment.

Each zone within the clusters is crafted to meet the specific needs of different industries. This forms the backbone of a thriving e-commerce hub where safety, efficiency, and green sustainability are valued.

The Logistics Cluster

Right beside Dubai International Airport, the Logistics Cluster is a key point for regional distribution throughout the Middle East and North Africa. This area includes specialized facilities that improve logistics for e-commerce businesses, offering a strategic spot that supports fast order handling and effective delivery to the final destination.

E-commerce companies can use flexible warehouses shared with other clients and customizable Light Industrial Units (LIU). These options let businesses tailor their storage and distribution strategies to fit the ever-changing landscape of online commerce.

The Business Cluster

In the Business Cluster, companies find high-quality Grade A offices and modern structures surrounded by attractive landscaping that reflects forward-thinking design and commitment to international growth standards. This area supports diverse businesses and provides ample room to scale operations and strengthen customer relationships.

Businesses can access various leasing options, allowing them to modify their physical presence to align with their growth. This flexibility ensures the space evolves with the changing needs of growing companies.

The Social Cluster

The Social Cluster is designed as a lively blend of work and play, offering a space that improves the quality of life for those in the e-commerce sector. It’s a place where people can enjoy a variety of dining options, art displays, and spots to unwind.

This area is more than just a place to work; it’s where professional relationships grow through networking events and shared workspaces. It’s an innovative space where the addition of art galleries and creative venues encourages thinking that goes beyond the usual business activities.

Advantages of Business Setup in Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity brings multiple advantages to e-commerce businesses:

• Central Location and Efficient Logistics: Next to Dubai International Airport, offering excellent worldwide links and full logistics solutions from storage to final delivery.
• Advanced Infrastructure and Sustainable Operations: A platform for companies to excel in a tech-driven setting, with solar-powered storage reducing carbon footprint and costs.
• Flexible Office Spaces and Effective Storage Solutions: Various choices to suit companies of different sizes, with innovative stock and inventory handling approaches.
• Tailored E-Commerce Support and Business Formation: An environment crafted for online business success, with specialized services to ease the creation of new companies.
• No-Tax Setup with Complete Ownership and Profit Transfer: Zero personal and corporate income tax for economic gain, full control over your business, and the freedom to send profits home.
• Lively Community and Business Growth Environment: A place to live and work that encourages creativity and progress.
• Effortless Business Establishment: An easy and fast business setup process.

Dubai CommerCity Setup Process

Dubai CommerCity offers a seamless and strategic setup process for your e-commerce business, ensuring a smooth transition into the region’s leading digital trade hub.

• from a Public Limited Liability Company (PLLC), a Free Zone Company (FZC), or a Free Zone Entity (Branch).
• Step 2: License Type Selection – Select the appropriate license for your business activities, including options such as Trade, Service, Industrial, E-Commerce, General Trading, or Dual License with DED.
• Step 3: Product and Services Specification – Define the specific products and services your e-commerce business will offer, aligning with over 1500 available business activities.
• Step 4: Submission of Contact Details – Provide essential contact information, including your first and last name and a mobile number to facilitate communication.

Let Us Help You Setup in Dubai CommerCity

Starting an e-commerce company in Dubai CommerCity is a key decision for your career. We provide clear and efficient guidance to streamline your business setup, from choosing the right license to securing the ideal workspace. Contact us to take advantage of the opportunities available at Dubai CommerCity.

FAQ’s

Dubai Financial Center is a prime location for business setup in the UAE due to its combination of tax incentives, foreign ownership opportunities, and strong legal infrastructure.

This overview demonstrates how the DIFC facilitates business expansion in MEASA’s vibrant financial sector, making it an excellent option for entrepreneurs and businesses planning to expand in the UAE.

Exploring Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

As soon as it opened its doors in 2004, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) quickly established itself as an epicenter for business and innovation. Today, it stands amongst the world’s top 10 financial centers and boasts more than 2,000 active firms, illustrating its centrality within the financial industry.

The DIFC serves as the leading financial hub in the MEASA region and hosts the Dubai International Financial Exchange, an essential economic hub. To demonstrate its dedication to long-term economic development, the DIFC has set itself a target of providing USD 100 billion by 2030 through sustainable finance initiatives.

With its prime location, the DIFC provides companies with an ideal setting to manage regional operations. Furthermore, this platform affords unrivaled opportunities to connect with industry experts and peers, creating a secure foundation for business expansion and success.

Benefits of Establishing a Business in DIFC

Establishing your business in Dubai Financial Centre provides numerous advantages. These benefits may include:

• Flexible Legal Structures: DIFC offers various legal entities to meet diverse business and investment needs.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Cutting-edge facilities for transport, communication, and IT support businesses.
• Independent Regulation: A top-tier regulatory agency ensures a robust and cohesive framework.
• English Common Law: An international legal system based on English Common Law provides reliability.
• Transparent Operations: Adherence to international laws and best practices ensures transparency.
• Global Stock Exchange: DIFC’s international exchange lists debt and equity, offering worldwide investment opportunities.
• Full Foreign Ownership: Companies enjoy complete control with 100% foreign ownership.
• Free Capital Repatriation: Unrestricted repatriation of capital and profits offers financial flexibility.
• Talented Workforce: Access to a skilled workforce ensures businesses can attract top talent.
• Tax Treaty Benefits: Access to the UAE’s double taxation treaties reduces international tax obligations.

Types of Licenses Available at DIFC Free Zone

Alongside these benefits, there are various licensing options available to you, including:

• Financial Services License: Tailored for banking, insurance, and asset management firms.
• Professional Services License: For individuals offering legal, accounting, or consulting services expertise.
• Non-Financial Services License: Ideal for businesses in consulting and marketing services.
• Retail License: For entities engaged in retail business activities.
• Freelancer License: Designed to support freelancers operating in the DIFC.

Top Business Activities at DIFC Free Zone

For investors considering a business setup within the DIFC, the following list represents the main activities permitted:

• Banking
• Private Banking
• Investment Banking
• Brokerage
• Insurance & Reinsurance
• Fund Management
• Professional Service Providers
• Islamic Finance
• Fintech
• Prescribed Companies
• Private Equity
• Corporate Offices
• Capital Markets
• Asset Management
• Wealth Management
• Retail
• Cafes and Restaurants
• Art Galleries

Licensing and Registration Process in DIFC

Setting up a business in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is straightforward. Here is a simplified guide to registering your company and acquiring your license:

• Step 1: Go to the DIFC client portal and complete the online registration form with all required company details and business plans.
• Step 2: Wait for the initial approval from DIFC authorities. This early stage lets you clear up any questions and fulfill any additional needs that might come up while your application is reviewed.
• Step 3: After getting the initial go-ahead, pay the fees. These cover the cost of processing your application and registering your company at the DIFC.
• Step 4: Collect and submit legal documents to the DIFC Registrar of Companies. You will require your business plan, shareholder passport copies, and other legal documentation that demonstrates how your business is structured and what its activities will entail.
  Step 5: Once all requirements and paperwork have been fulfilled and approved, you will receive your Certificate of Incorporation from the DIFC.

Following these steps carefully and with the proper documents ready, you can complete this efficient process quickly, setting up for success in Dubai’s financial hub.

Required Documents

You must provide several essential documents to register a company at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). These include:

• Passport copy for identification.
• A concise business plan outlining objectives and operations.
• Proposed company name, legal structure, and business activities.
• Profiles of key personnel with names, nationalities, and roles.

Costs of Setting Up in DIFC Free Zone

To begin setting up your business at the DIFC, the first action is to secure your company’s name. This critical step confirms the availability of your preferred business name. The application to reserve a name is processed in about two business days and costs $800.

Once your business name is set aside, you can form a Private Company Limited by Shares. This process typically takes five business days and costs $8,000.

After establishing your company, you must obtain a Commercial License to conduct lawful business activities. This license can be acquired with an annual fee of $12,000.

Let Us Help You Setup the Dubai Financial Center

Beginning a business in an unfamiliar area can be daunting yet rewarding with proper support. Our team is here to make this transition smooth by using their extensive understanding and practical experience to help businesses adapt seamlessly to Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC). Our expertise will guide you through the specific business setting and compliance standards found within DIFC.

We recognize that each business faces different hurdles and requirements when entering new markets. That’s why we provide customized assistance to help you grasp the local scene, fulfill legal obligations, and set up your operations effectively. Contact us today for more information and support and start your successful business establishment in the Middle East’s central hub.

FAQ’s

Are you a foreign investor or a company founder that is looking forward to their RAKoffshore company registration? Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is well known for its highly transparent laws, compliance with local & International regulations, excellent professional services and quick incorporation. If you are preparing for your RAK offshore company registration, You might as well also prepare for the high-value benefits like 100% ownership, easy incorporation and adequate resources to meet the Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) Test. We are one of the top registered agents in the UAE that can help you with your RAK offshore company registration.

RAK ICC

The RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a corporate registry that operates in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. RAK ICC was established by merging two company registries: RAK International Companies (which used to be a part of RAK Free Trade Zone) and RAK Offshore (which was a part of RAK Investment Authority). RAK ICC provides registry services and also regulates the registration and incorporation of International Business Companies. 

RAK offshore company formation

Some of the key features of forming your offshore company in Ras Al Khaimah are as follows:

Shareholders   

In order to obtain the certificate of incorporation, A RAK offshore company must have at least one shareholder. You are also allowed to have corporate shareholders. These shareholders determine the capital structure of your RAK offshore company. The maximum number of shareholders your offshore company can have is 15. Such a formation offers 100% foreign ownership and there is no requirement of a minimum capital for incorporating your offshore company in RAK.

In addition, there is no requirement of shareholder presence for your offshore company incorporation. 

Directors

Your offshore company must have at least one director. The details of your offshore company director will not be made available for the public eye. 

Secretary

In the process of your RAK offshore company registration, You must have a secretary in place.

Accounting records & Auditing          

You must keep accounting records for seven years from the date on which they were prepared. The financial records are to be mandatorily approved by the directors and are to be signed at least by one of them. 

Name & Activities           

Your offshore company’s name must end with a suffix such as ‘Limited’ or ‘Incorporated’. In addition, you will not be allowed to use prohibited words such as Assurance, Bank, Building Society, Chamber of Commerce, Chartered, Co-operative, Fund, Imperial, Insurance, Municipal, Mutual Fund, Royal and Trust.

Local Requirements

Your RAK offshore company must maintain a registered office address and appoint a registered agent. However, it is possible for your company to identify the address of the registered agent in the UAE as your own address.

Compliance

Your offshore company must disclose information about Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBO), You should also assess your compliance obligations under the Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) and meet requirements such as ESR Notification filing, ESR Report submission, and meet ESR test.

Steps to Register a RAK Offshore Company 

Congratulations on making it this far, Now we’d like to walk you through the steps involved in registering your offshore company in Ras Al Khaimah:

Appoint a registered agent in the UAE 

1. Prepare your documents
2. Submit the application
3. Receive the RAK ICC certificate of incorporation, MOA, and Registry of Members

Document Checklist for RAK Offshore Company Registration

1. Memorandum & Articles of Association (signed by all shareholders)
2. Agent Appointment Letter
3. Certified copy of the passport of shareholders
4. Certified copy of current utility bill or local authority tax bill or tenancy agreement or residency certificate showing the address of current permanent residence or bank statement

RAK Offshore company: Benefits

Foreign investors can enjoy the following benefits if they register their offshore company in Ras Al Khaimah:

• Open a bank account in the UAE
• Own real estate in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai
• 100% foreign ownership
• Ability to own shares in mainland or free zones companies in the UAE
• Ability to form a subsidiary with RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
• Benefit from state-of-the-art legislation
• Robust compliance procedures
• General trading

Changing your registered agent

Are you not satisfied with the services provided by your registered agent for your offshore company? There is a provision for changing your registered agent in case of any dissatisfaction. If this sounds like something you want to do, We can help you!

We have a history of taking over as registered agents for numerous RAK offshore companies.

Best registered agents in UAE:

Forming your offshore company requires you to follow a set of guidelines and rules. If you are a foreign investor and are new to the dynamic UAE landscape, We can save you time and keep you away from hassle by taking you under our wing. Dubai Business Zone has been providing quality registered agent services in the UAE for years, and we are highly recommended by top performing offshore companies within RAK.

Get a FREE consultation with us today and find out more about forming your offshore company in Ras Al Khaimah in the most cost-effective and quickest way!

FAQ’s