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

8 min read

Jan 12, 2026Jan 12, 2026

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

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. 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 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 Type	Base 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 / Freelance 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.

Renewal Charges: Annual renewal fees usually range between AED 5,000 and AED 15,000. The amount depends on office rent, visa count, and administrative services included.
Trade Name Reservation Renewals: Trade name reservation or modification attracts additional fees. These usually range from AED 620 to AED 1,000 per request.
Document Legalization & Attestation: Notarization and attestation apply to MOA, contracts, and passport copies. Costs typically range between AED 500 and AED 2,000, based on document volume.
Bank Account Minimums: Most corporate banks require a minimum balance of AED 50,000 to AED 150,000. Banks may charge AED 250 to AED 1,000 per month if balances fall below the limit.
Insurance Premiums: Health insurance is mandatory for all employees in Dubai. Basic plans usually cost AED 700 to AED 1,500 per employee per year.
Utilities & Facility Fees: Electricity, water, internet, and facility maintenance may not be included. These expenses can add AED 3,000 to AED 10,000 annually, depending on office size.
Optional Packages: Virtual offices, call handling, and mail services cost extra. Charges usually range between AED 2,000 and AED 8,000 per year.
DMCC Office Space Cost: DMCC requires an office solution for license issuance. A flexi-desk typically costs AED 15,000 – AED 20,000 per year. A serviced office usually ranges from AED 25,000 to AED 50,000 per year. A larger physical office or warehouse space can cost AED 50,000+ annually, depending on 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 Type	License Fee Range (AED/year)	Office Options	Visa Quota	Notes
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.

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.

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

1. What are the different DMCC license types available for businesses?

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.

2. How much does a DMCC trade license cost in 2026?

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.

3. What is the DMCC trade license renewal cost?

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.

4. How much does a DMCC company set up cost?

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.

5. How do I start a DMCC company formation in Dubai?

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.

6. What services do business setup consultants DMCC provide?

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.

7. Can I do DMCC free zone company formation remotely?

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.

8. How much does a free zone license cost compared to DMCC?

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.

9. How to check your trade license online in DMCC?

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.

10. How to get a trade license in Dubai?

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.

11. How much does a DMCC license cost in 2026?

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.

12. Is DMCC cheaper than JAFZA or IFZA?

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.

13. Can freelancers apply for a DMCC license?

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.

14. Does DMCC offer 0% corporate tax?

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.

15. How long does DMCC company setup take?

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.