DMCC Plans to Register Over 2,000 Companies in 2025
- 14.11.2025
- Posted by: Uwe Hohmann
- Categories: Company Setup, Dubai, Middle East
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.
The process is relatively straightforward. You select your business activity and licence type, register your company name, lease office space or get a flexi-desk, and submit your application. Processing times vary depending on the licence category, but most applications go through within a few weeks if 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 licence type, office requirements, and how many visas you need. A basic trading licence with a flexi-desk starts around AED 20,000 to AED 25,000 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. DMCC 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 labour compliance. Accounting and audit requirements depend on your business size and structure. Some companies must file audited accounts, while others only need to maintain proper books.
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 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 DAFZA 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 often makes more sense.
The decision comes down to your business activities, target market, budget, and long-term plans. There is no single best option for everyone.
Comprehensive UAE Business Solutions
At TME Services, we help businesses set up in DMCC, other UAE free zones, and mainland Dubai.
If you are considering DMCC or want to compare it with other authorities, we can explain your options and help you choose the best one for your individual case.
Our comprehensive services are designed to support you every step of your business journey in the UAE:
- Company Formation: We guide you through all aspects of setting up your company, whether in a free zone or on the mainland, ensuring you choose the best option for your business.
- Visa and Emirates ID Services: We streamline the process of securing visas and Emirates IDs for you and your employees, allowing you to focus on your business operations.
- Accounting: Our team ensures your business stays compliant with local financial regulations, which is crucial for maintaining good standing in Dubai’s business community.
- Tax: We help manage Dubai’s tax environment, ensuring your business remains compliant while optimizing your tax position.
- Compliance and AML : We help ensure your business remains compliant with UAE laws and regulatory requirements while assisting in the implementation, maintenance, and training of AML (Anti-Money Laundering) procedures in line with national and international standards.
- Business Consulting: Leveraging our deep understanding of Dubai’s market, we provide valuable insights and help you develop effective strategies to succeed.
Visit our services page to learn more about everything we do.
