DMCC Plans to Register Over 2,000 Companies in 2025

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) has set a target to register more than 2,000 new companies in 2025. The free zone added over 1,000 firms in the first half of 2024, putting it on track to meet similar numbers by year’s end. Total registrations at DMCC now exceed 26,000 companies. The numbers indicate that businesses continue to see DMCC as a viable option for setting up in Dubai. The free zone offers the usual benefits, including full foreign ownership and competitive tax conditions. Location-wise, it is situated in JLT (Jumeirah Lakes Towers), offering access to office space, meeting facilities, and business services.

Compliance and Ongoing Requirements

DMCC works particularly well for companies in trading, commodities, precious metals, and professional services. The licensing structure covers a wide range of activities, though some sectors require specific approvals or do not qualify for free zone setup.

If you work with a service provider such as TME Services, the process becomes much easier. You choose your business activity and licence type, register your company name, secure office space or a flexi-desk, and submit your application. Processing times vary depending on the licence category, but most applications are completed within a few weeks as long as your documents are in order.

Is DMCC Right for Your Business?

Choosing DMCC over other free zones or a mainland setup depends on what your business does and where your clients are located. Free zones offer some benefits and simpler licensing, but they come with restrictions. You cannot do business directly with the UAE mainland market without a distributor or additional licensing. If most of your work is international or with other free zone companies, this is not an issue.

DMCC is not the most affordable option in Dubai, but it is not the most expensive either. Costs depend on your license type, office requirements, and the number of visas you need. A basic trading licence with a flexi-desk starts around AED 40,000 to AED 45,000 annually, though actual costs vary based on your specific setup.

For companies that need regular face-to-face meetings or prefer working in an established business district, DMCC offers more infrastructure than some of the newer or more remote free zones.

What DMCC Offers

Setting up a company is one thing. Running it properly is another. All companies need to maintain their licences by renewing annually, filing required documents, and keeping their corporate records up to date. Most licences also come with office space requirements, so you cannot just register and operate entirely remotely.

If you hire staff, you will need to handle visa applications, Emirates ID registration, and employment compliance.

Tax rules have changed in recent years. The UAE introduced CIT (Corporate Income Tax) at 9 percent on taxable income above AED 375,000, effective from 01.06.2023 for most businesses. Free zone companies can still qualify for 0 percent tax if they meet certain conditions, but the rules are very specific, and you need to ensure you qualify.

Other Options to Consider

DMCC is one of over 30 free zones in Dubai. Others like DIFC focus on financial services, Dubai Internet City targets tech companies, and DAFZ works well for logistics and manufacturing. Each has different fee structures, licensing options, and sector focuses.

Mainland company setup is another route. It allows you to work directly with the UAE market without restrictions, but comes with different licensing and office requirements. For businesses targeting local clients or government contracts, a mainland setup makes more sense.

The decision comes down to your business activities, target market, and long-term plans. There is no single best option for everyone.