Ownership
Up to 100% foreign ownership is available in DMCC for eligible activities; no UAE national partner is required. Regulated activities need approvals.
Setting up from abroad
- Submit your application onlineReserve the name and submit KYC documents through the portal.
- Verify identity by video callDMCC handles identity verification by a short video call.
- Sign and pay electronicallyDocuments are signed through the Member Portal and fees paid online.
- Receive the e-licenceYou can start the bank-account process from anywhere.
What still needs a UAE visit
A residence visa requires medical testing and biometrics in the UAE, and some banks ask for in-person verification.
Documents
Passport copy, proof of residential address in your country, any approvals, and parent-company documents for corporate shareholders. See requirements.
Sources and verification
Facts attributed to DMCC come from its own published guide and package pages (links below), accessed September 2026. Prices and rules change — confirm on dmcc.ae before paying. Figures from market guides are labelled as such.
- DMCC — Business Activities and Licences: A Complete Guide (9 Apr 2026)
- DMCC — Business setup packages
- DMCC — Schedule of charges
- DMCC — Public register
- DMCC — Set up a new business
Fee-data status: Published fees — DMCC package prices as published by DMCC; other costs are indicative.
DMCC company formation for foreigners: FAQs
Can a non-resident open a DMCC company?
Yes — DMCC states the process is fully digital and can be completed from anywhere.
Do foreigners need a UAE partner?
No local partner is required for eligible activities.
Do I need a UAE residence visa to own a DMCC company?
No, the licence and the visa are separate; the visa is optional.
Get a written quote for DMCC
Tell us your activity and how many visas you need. We reply on WhatsApp or email with government fees shown separately from any service fee.
- Free, no obligation
- Honest advice — including when a different zone or mainland fits better
- No guarantee of visa or bank-account approval; both are subject to the relevant authority or bank
Information on this page is general and was compiled from public sources; fees and rules are set by the relevant authorities and change. Figures were last reviewed in July 2026 and exclude professional-service fees, office rent beyond any bundled desk, external approvals and bank requirements. This is not legal, tax or immigration advice. Always confirm the current position with the relevant authority before paying. See our Disclaimer.