When setting up your business in Dubai, selecting the right business activity and securing the appropriate licence are critical first steps. Your chosen activity defines what your business is legally permitted to do, while the licence authorises you to operate within DMCC and across the wider Dubai region. Without both in place, your business cannot legally function.
Business activities in DMCC
Every company registered in DMCC must operate under at least one approved business activity, which defines what your business is legally permitted to do. These activities are grouped under the four main licence categories: service, trading, commercial, and industrial.
DMCC offers a comprehensive selection of over 1,000+ approved activities across 20 sectors, providing flexibility for businesses across a wide range of industries.
Common business activity categories
DMCC business activities span multiple sectors, including:
- Trading and general commerce – including textiles, consumer goods, electronics, and general trading activities
- Commodities and resources – such as precious metals, diamonds, energy, and agricultural commodities
- Professional and consultancy services – including management consultancy, financial advisory, and marketing services
- Technology and innovation – covering software development, AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, and IT services
- Crypto and Web3 – including virtual asset services and blockchain-based activities (subject to regulatory approvals)
- Logistics and transportation – including shipping, freight, and supply chain services
- Food and beverage – including restaurants, cafés, and food trading businesses
- Healthcare and medical trading – including medical equipment and pharmaceutical-related activities
How to choose the right DMCC business activity
Selecting the correct business activity is a critical step in the setup process, as it impacts your licence type, regulatory requirements, and operational scope.
Here are key factors to consider:
- Define your core business model
Start by identifying your primary revenue-generating activity. Your selected activity should accurately reflect what your business does on a day-to-day basis. - Align with licence categories
Each activity falls under a specific licence type (service, trading, commercial, or industrial). Choosing the correct category ensures compliance and avoids restrictions. - Understand regulatory requirements
Some activities may require additional approvals from external authorities. For example, regulated sectors such as financial services, healthcare, or crypto-related activities may involve additional compliance steps. - Evaluate operational needs
Certain activities, such as manufacturing or logistics, may require specific facilities or infrastructure. Ensure your chosen activity aligns with your office or operational setup.
Types of business licences in DMCC
DMCC offers four main types of business licences, each designed to support different business activities.
- Service licence
Suitable for businesses providing professional or consultancy services, such as advisory, IT services, and other specialised expertise. - Trading licence
Designed for businesses involved in importing, exporting, distributing, or selling goods. - Commercial licence
Ideal for broader trading activities, including the buying and selling of multiple product categories under one licence. - Industrial licence
Choosing the correct licence is essential, as it defines the scope of your operations and ensures compliance with DMCC regulations.
Choosing the correct licence is essential, as it defines the scope of your operations and ensures compliance with DMCC regulations.
How much does a DMCC business licence cost?
There is no set cost for business licences in DMCC. The cost of your business licence will depend on factors such as your type of business licence, its size, and your chosen business sector. You can expect the cost of your business licence to range from about AED 20,000 to AED 50,000 per annum.
The minimum share capital requirement in DMCC is typically AED 50,000, depending on the business activity. Overall, total setup costs will vary depending on your business needs, but understanding these components can help you plan your investment more effectively.
DMCC’s exclusive packages to obtain your DMCC company licence
As one of the world's leading business hubs, DMCC offers a range of business setup packages designed for companies of all sizes, from startups and SMEs to medium and large businesses. Business setup packages typically include a DMCC company licence, other benefits like UAE residency visas, discounts on special flexi desk options and company setup fees.
For start-ups, SMEs and entrepreneurs
|
Package type |
Package price (AED) |
Package features and benefits |
|
Jump start package |
43,780 |
|
|
Basic biz package |
35,484 |
|
For medium to large businesses
|
Package type |
Package price (AED) |
Package features and benefits |
|
Prime plus package |
40,145 |
|
For residents and owners
|
Package type |
Package price (AED) |
Package features and benefits |
|
JLT resident package |
29,185 |
|
|
Uptown homeowners package |
Free |
|
For ecosystems
|
Package type for |
Starting from (AED) |
Package features and benefits |
|
Gaming, AI businesses, and more |
31,000 |
|
How to obtain a DMCC business licence
Setting up a business in DMCC is designed to be straightforward and efficient, with a fully digital and paperless process
Step 1: Express your interest
Decide on your business activity and company structure, then submit an inquiry through the DMCC Business Setup Wizard. A DMCC representative will provide access to your unique portal account to start your business
Step 2: Submit your online application
Log in to your portal and submit the application. DMCC will then process your company name reservation, management review, and compliance approval.
Step 3: Pay, sign and submit your documents
Next, pay the registration and licence fees and sign the legal documents. DMCC will issue a Provisional Approval and Bank Introductory Letters (these documents will help with leasing office space, if needed, and opening a company bank account when required).
Step 4: Receive your E-licence
Finally, sign and submit the relevant documents for your new office space. DMCC will issue your E-Licence, so you will be ready to do business in DMCC.
The company setup process can be completed from anywhere in the world through a fully digital process.
What you'll need to obtain your DMCC business licence
- Passport copy (along with your UAE residence visa and a copy of your Emirates’ ID if applicable)
- Proof of residential address in country of residence i.e. a current dated utility bill
- Third-party approvals for certain regulated business activities
- Copies of parent company documents (required if setting up a subsidiary or a branch).
Renewing your DMCC business licence
DMCC member companies must maintain a valid licence to legally operate within the free zone once the original business licence has expired. Subject to eligibility, some companies can opt for licence renewals with extended validity of 2, 3, or 5 years. The renewal process must be completed before the licence expiry date to avoid sanctions and penalties, which could ultimately result in licence termination by the authorities.
Renewal fees vary depending on the licence, package, and office solution. Applicants should refer to DMCC’s current schedule of charges and renewal package guidance. There are various applicability and business rules when you renew your business licence. Ensure that you are aware of these before committing to renewing a business licence.
Seamless business licensing in DMCC
From initial setup to renewals, DMCC's licensing framework accommodates diverse business needs through a streamlined application process, flexible renewal options, and varied package structures, ensuring that businesses can establish and maintain their operations effectively. Whether opting for standard annual renewals, extended validity periods, or the various package types on offer, DMCC's clear licensing pathways and established procedures provide a solid foundation for companies to operate legally within one of Dubai's most prestigious free zones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
