DMCC – Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

Overview

DMCC is the largest and most established freezone in Dubai, home to over 22,000 registered companies. Located in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district, it consistently ranks among the top freezones globally for foreign direct investment. DMCC provides a full ecosystem for businesses ranging from solo consultants to multinational commodity trading firms.

The freezone operates its own purpose-built infrastructure including office towers, a diamond exchange, a tea centre, and a commodities marketplace. Its reputation opens doors with banks, clients, and government entities alike.

Ideal For

DMCC is the go-to choice for companies involved in commodities trading, precious metals, general trading, and professional services. If your business relies on credibility with banks and international partners, DMCC’s name carries significant weight. It also suits consulting firms, import-export operations, and companies that need a large visa allocation.

Setup Process

The registration process typically takes 5 to 10 business days. You will need to choose your legal structure, select a business activity, reserve a trade name, submit documentation (passport copies, business plan, proof of address), and sign your lease agreement. DMCC assigns a dedicated registration specialist to guide applicants through the process.

Costs

First-year costs generally range from AED 25,000 to AED 50,000 depending on your licence type, number of visas, and office choice. Flexi-desk options are the most affordable, while physical offices increase the total. Renewal costs are typically lower than the first year. For a detailed breakdown, see our UAE Freezone Costs guide.

Pros and Cons

DMCC offers unmatched prestige and the strongest banking relationships of any Dubai freezone. Its large business community creates excellent networking opportunities, and the JLT location is centrally positioned with metro access.

On the downside, DMCC is more expensive than budget alternatives like IFZA or Meydan. During peak periods, processing times can stretch, and the sheer volume of registered companies means support queues can be longer. For a head-to-head comparison, read our DMCC vs IFZA guide.

Related Freezones

Consider JAFZA for warehouse and logistics needs, DAFZA for airport-adjacent trading, or IFZA if you want a lower-cost Dubai alternative.