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DMCC License Cost in 2026: Fees, Types & Total Setup Expenses

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DMCC License Cost in 2026: Fees, Types & Total Setup Expenses
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Starting a business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone requires an approved business license. In 2026, the DMCC license cost generally starts from around AED 7,500 and can go up to AED 35,000, depending on the business activity and license type. However, the license fee alone does not reflect the full expense of setting up a company.

You also need to budget for office space, employee visas, company registration, and other administrative or service fees. These additional costs can significantly increase your overall investment if you do not plan in advance.

In this guide, you will discover the different types of DMCC licenses, and DMCC free zone license cost​. You will also get a complete cost breakdown for 2026, learn about potential hidden fees, and find tips to choose the right option. Whether you are a startup, freelancer, or an established company, this guide will help you budget smartly.

What is a DMCC License?

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is one of the world’s leading free zones, located in the heart of Dubai. It is a strategic hub for global trade, commodities, e-commerce, and professional services. DMCC attracts entrepreneurs, startups, and multinational companies. It offers business-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, and easy access to international markets. Many investors choose DMCC company formation to establish their presence in Dubai efficiently.

A DMCC license is a legal permit that allows a business to operate within the DMCC Free Zone. It ensures full compliance with UAE laws and provides several advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and full profit repatriation. Businesses also benefit from specialized infrastructure, flexible office options, and regulatory support designed for various sectors.

DMCC offers different types of licenses depending on business activities:

  • Trading License: Ideal for import, export, and general trading businesses.
  • Service License: Suitable for consultancies, IT firms, marketing agencies, and other professional services.
  • Industrial License: Designed for manufacturing, processing, or production businesses.
  • E-Commerce / Freelance License: Perfect for freelancers, online businesses, and digital entrepreneurs.

Each license type has specific requirements and benefits. For example, trading and industrial licenses may require office space or warehouses, while freelance and e-commerce licenses often allow flexible desk setups. Choosing the right license ensures smooth operations, regulatory compliance, and scalable growth.

Note: Companies that do not meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person criteria may be subject to 9% UAE corporate tax.

To learn how free zones still allow full control, read more about 100% foreign ownership in UAE free zones.

What is the DMCC License Cost in 2026? Fees Breakdown

The DMCC free zone license cost in 2026 starts from around AED 7,500 for e-commerce or freelance activities. It can go up to AED 35,000 per year for industrial businesses. The final cost depends on the license type, approved business activity, and compliance requirements. The base license fee covers only part of the expense. Businesses should also plan for renewal charges and related regulatory costs. This helps in budgeting accurately for a DMCC company set up.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the DMCC license cost by license type:

License TypeBase License Cost (AED/year)Renewal Cost (AED/year)Notes
Trading License 20,000 – 25,000 10,000 – 15,000 For import, export, and general trading businesses
Service License 15,000 – 20,000 8,000 – 12,000 Suitable for consultancies, IT firms, marketing, and other professional services
Industrial License 25,000 – 35,000 12,000 – 20,000 Designed for manufacturing, processing, or production businesses
E-Commerce  License 7,500 – 10,000 5,000 – 7,500 Perfect for freelancers, digital entrepreneurs, and online businesses

Note: These costs are approximate and may vary depending on your business activity, office setup, and additional services required. The DMCC trade license renewal cost can differ from the initial license fee.

Need clarity on your DMCC setup cost? SafeLedger provides expert support for DMCC licensing, office solutions, and compliance. You also get clear cost estimates along with end-to-end assistance. Contact us today!

Additional Charges to Consider

The base DMCC trade license cost is just one part of your budget. Several other charges can significantly affect your DMCC setup costs.

Expense Type Estimated Cost (AED) Notes
Annual Renewal Charges 5,000 – 15,000 Depends on office rent, visas, admin services
Trade Name Renewal / Modification 620 – 1,000 per request Applies to name renewal or changes
Document Legalization & Attestation 500 – 2,000 Based on number and type of documents
Bank Account Minimum Balance 50,000 – 150,000 Monthly penalty of 250 – 1,000 if below minimum
Insurance Premiums 700 – 1,500 per employee/year Mandatory health insurance
Utilities & Facility Fees 3,000 – 10,000 per year Electricity, water, internet, maintenance
Optional Service Packages 2,000 – 8,000 per year Virtual office, call handling, mail services
DMCC Office Space (Flexi-desk) 15,000 – 20,000 per year Minimum office requirement
DMCC Serviced / Physical Office 25,000 – 50,000+ per year Cost varies by size and location

Note: Costs are approximate. Actual charges may vary depending on your license type, office selection, number of visas, and additional services chosen.

Factors Affecting DMCC License Cost

The total DMCC setup costs depend on several factors. They are:

  • License Type: Trading, service, industrial, or e-commerce/freelance licenses have different base costs. Industrial and trading licenses are usually more expensive.
  • Business Activity: Specific activities may require approvals, additional permits, or specialized facilities. This can increase costs.
  • Office Space Requirements: A flexi-desk, serviced office, or full office affects your total costs. Larger or premium offices cost more.
  • Number of Employees: More employees mean higher visa costs, health insurance premiums, and related fees.
  • Free Zone Packages: Optional services like virtual offices, call handling, or marketing support can raise DMCC setup costs.
  • Renewals and Additional Fees: Annual renewals, trade name modifications, and document attestation fees also impact total expenses.

Knowing what affects costs lets you optimize your budget and choose the best setup for your DMCC business.

You can also refer to a List of Free Zones in Dubai to compare options, costs, and benefits before deciding.

Comparison of DMCC License Costs with Other UAE Free Zones

DMCC is one of Dubai’s most popular free zones; however its license costs can vary significantly compared to other zones. Comparing fees, office options, and visa quotas enables businesses to make informed decisions and accurately estimate total DMCC setup costs.

Free Zone / License TypeLicense Fee Range (AED/year)Office OptionsVisa QuotaNotes
DMCC – Trading License 20,000 – 25,000 Flexi-desk, serviced office, full office 1–10 visas Leading hub for trade, commodities, and professional services
DMCC – Service License 15,000 – 20,000 Flexi-desk, serviced office, full office 1–5 visas Ideal for IT, marketing, and consultancy firms
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (Industrial License) 25,000 – 35,000 Warehouse, office 2–10 visas Manufacturing and production-focused businesses
Dubai Internet City (DIC) – Service License 15,000 – 22,000 Flexi-desk, office 1–5 visas Best for IT, software, and tech startups
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) – Trading/Service License 12,000 – 20,000 Flexi-desk, office, warehouse 1–5 visas Affordable setup for tech and small trading businesses
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – Industrial License 25,000 – 40,000 Warehouse, industrial units 5–15 visas Popular for manufacturing and logistics; port access adds value
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Free Zone – Trading/Service License 9,000 – 18,000 Flexi-desk, office 1–5 visas Cost-effective for startups and SMEs with lower overheads

Comparing DMCC with other UAE free zones helps businesses balance costs with infrastructure, office facilities, and visa capacity. DMCC stands out as the best location for setting up a business in Dubai. It offers premium infrastructure, high visa quotas, and easy access to international markets.

Need help choosing the right free zone for your DMCC business and budget? SafeLedger provides expert comparisons and guides you through your DMCC company setup.

Addition information: Dubai Free Zone License Cost

Tips to Reduce DMCC License Costs

Starting a business in DMCC can be expensive if you don’t plan carefully. Here are practical tips to optimize your DMCC setup costs without compromising quality:

  • Choose the Right License Type: Select the license that matches your business activity. Avoid paying for unnecessary services or permissions.
  • Opt for Flexi-Desk or Shared Office: Instead of a full office, consider a flexi-desk or serviced office. This can significantly lower your office rent costs.
  • Plan Employee Visas Wisely: Apply for only the required number of visas initially. Add more as your team grows.
  • Leverage Free Zone Packages: Some DMCC packages include visa processing, office space, and support services. Choose bundled packages to save money.
  • Negotiate Office and Service Fees: Discuss rates with office providers and service partners. Some costs, like facility fees or utilities, can be reduced through negotiation.
  • Use Professional Consultants: Experienced consultants, like SafeLedger, can help you plan your DMCC company set up efficiently. They guide you to reduce unnecessary expenses.
  • Review Renewal Costs: Keep track of annual renewal fees for licenses, trade names, and visas. Timely planning prevents sudden financial pressure.

Following these tips helps you manage your DMCC setup costs effectively. It also ensures a smoother and more cost-efficient company formation in the UAE.

Note: Actual savings may vary depending on your license type, office selection, number of visas, and additional services chosen.

Do you know – Dubai Free Zone Company Setup Cost

Conclusion

Setting up a business in DMCC gives you access to global markets, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment. The DMCC license cost is only part of your total expenses, with office rent, visas, and service fees also adding to your DMCC setup costs.

By choosing the right license, comparing free zones, and planning for hidden charges, you can budget smartly. Simple strategies like flexi-desks, careful visa planning, and bundled packages help reduce costs.

For a smooth DMCC company set up, SafeLedger offers expert guidance to estimate costs, choose the right license, and handle all administrative steps efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

DMCC offers several license types to suit different business activities. You can choose from a Trading License, Service License, Industrial License, or E-Commerce/Freelance License. Each license type has specific requirements, benefits, and office needs. Choosing the right license is crucial for compliance, smooth operations, and minimizing your DMCC setup costs. Proper planning ensures your business grows without regulatory issues.

The DMCC trade license cost depends on the business activity. Trading licenses generally range between AED 20,000 – 25,000 per year. Service licenses start at AED 15,000, while industrial licenses can go up to AED 35,000. E-commerce or freelance licenses are more affordable, ranging between AED 7,500 – 10,000. These base costs do not include office rent, visas, or other administrative fees.

Renewing a DMCC license requires paying the DMCC trade license renewal cost, which may differ from the initial fee. Trading license renewals range between AED 10,000 – 15,000, while service licenses renew for AED 8,000 – 12,000. Industrial and e-commerce licenses also have separate renewal fees. Planning renewals in advance helps avoid late charges and ensures uninterrupted operations in the DMCC Free Zone.

The total DMCC company set up cost includes the license fee, office space, visas, document legalization, and other service charges. Trading or industrial businesses have higher costs due to warehouse or office requirements. Freelancers and small service providers benefit from flexi-desks or shared office options. Understanding all charges, including hidden fees, ensures your budget covers the full DMCC setup process without surprises.

DMCC company formation begins with selecting the right license type based on your business activity. Next, reserve a trade name, secure an office, submit documents like passport copies and MOA, and pay fees. Finally, obtain your trade license and register for visas if needed. Professional business setup consultants DMCC can simplify this process, reduce errors, and ensure your company is fully compliant with UAE regulations.

Business setup consultants DMCC guide you through every step of company formation, from license selection to office setup and visa processing. They help optimize DMCC setup costs, manage document submission, and ensure compliance with DMCC regulations. Using consultants reduces errors, saves time, and provides clarity on hidden fees. They also provide advice on bank accounts, legal approvals, and annual license renewals.

Yes, DMCC free zone company formation can be handled remotely. Consultants and service providers assist with document submission, trade license application, office allocation, and visa processing without physical presence. This simplifies the setup for international investors or busy entrepreneurs. Remote company formation also allows you to plan your DMCC company set up efficiently, minimizing delays and reducing unnecessary travel or administrative hassle.

A typical free zone license cost in Dubai varies between AED 12,000 – 25,000 depending on the zone and license type. DMCC licenses tend to be slightly higher due to premium infrastructure and global trade access. While other zones like DSO or RAK offer more budget-friendly options, DMCC provides world-class amenities, high visa quotas, and strong international credibility, which can justify the higher initial and renewal costs.

You can check your trade license online using the official DMCC portal. Enter your license number or company name in the search section to verify its status. This online verification ensures your business is legally registered, up-to-date, and compliant with UAE laws. Regularly checking your trade license helps avoid fines, late renewal penalties, and ensures uninterrupted operations within the DMCC Free Zone.

To get a trade license in Dubai, select the appropriate free zone and license type. Submit documents like passport copies, MOA, and office lease agreements, and pay the required fees. DMCC offers licenses for trading, service, industrial, and e-commerce activities. Working with experienced DMCC company formation consultants can simplify the process, reduce setup time, and ensure compliance with UAE laws, making the setup process smoother for entrepreneurs.

The DMCC license cost in 2026 depends on your business activity and office requirements. Entry-level service or freelance licenses start from around AED 7,500, while trading licenses usually range between AED 20,000 and AED 25,000 per year. Industrial licenses cost more due to facility needs. These figures exclude office rent, visas, and administrative services, which increase the overall setup budget.

DMCC is not the cheapest free zone in the UAE. IFZA and some northern emirate zones offer lower entry costs. However, DMCC competes on value rather than price. It provides premium infrastructure, strong international credibility, and access to global markets. JAFZA suits large industrial and logistics firms, while DMCC balances cost with flexibility, reputation, and business growth potential.

Yes, freelancers can apply for a DMCC license under e-commerce or professional service categories. DMCC allows flexible desk solutions that reduce office costs. Freelancers benefit from 100% ownership, legal business status, and access to UAE banking. However, DMCC freelance licenses cost more than some other zones. They suit professionals who want credibility, scalability, and long-term business expansion in Dubai.

DMCC companies can benefit from 0% corporate tax if they qualify under UAE free zone regulations. Businesses must conduct operations within the free zone and meet economic substance requirements. Income earned from outside the UAE or non-qualifying activities may attract corporate tax. DMCC also offers full profit repatriation, no personal income tax, and strong regulatory clarity for compliant businesses.

DMCC company setup usually takes between 7 to 14 working days once documents are complete. Timelines depend on license type, business activity approvals, and office selection. Simple service or freelance setups move faster than trading or industrial businesses. Working with experienced consultants speeds up approvals, reduces document errors, and ensures smooth coordination with DMCC authorities.

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