Dubai has always been known for trade, tourism, and finance—but now it’s rapidly becoming a regional hub for light manufacturing and industrial activities. With world-class infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and easy access to global markets, Dubai is encouraging businesses to establish production and assembly operations. And if you’re looking to launch an industrial business, getting a DMCC Industrial License in Dubai is a smart move.
Whether you’re planning to manufacture, assemble, package, or process goods, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) offers the right platform to start and scale. This article explains everything you need to know—from what the license allows, who it’s for, how to apply, and why DMCC is the perfect place for your industrial setup.
What Is the DMCC Free Zone?
Before diving into the industrial license, let’s get familiar with the DMCC Free Zone.
DMCC stands for Dubai Multi Commodities Centre. It’s a government-backed free zone established in 2002 to support commodity trading, logistics, and business services. Today, it’s home to over 22,000 companies from more than 170 countries, operating across different industries including trading, consulting, manufacturing, logistics, tech, and crypto.
Why DMCC Is a Big Deal
- Named Global Free Zone of the Year multiple times
- Strategically located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
- Offers world-class infrastructure, offices, and warehousing
- 0% personal and corporate tax
- 100% foreign ownership
So when you register your business in DMCC, you’re not just getting a license—you’re getting access to a powerful business ecosystem.
What Is a DMCC Industrial License?
The DMCC Industrial License is a type of business license that allows companies to engage in light manufacturing, processing, assembling, or packaging of products. It is ideal for companies that transform raw materials or semi-finished goods into finished or modified products for resale.
This license does not permit heavy manufacturing (like steel plants or large-scale industrial factories), but it does support clean, controlled, and scalable production activities.
Activities Allowed Under an Industrial License
- Light manufacturing and assembly
- Packaging and repackaging
- Labeling and branding
- Product modification or enhancement
- Processing raw materials into finished goods
With this license, you can operate within DMCC-approved industrial spaces, hire staff, import raw materials, and export your finished goods.
Who Should Apply for a DMCC Industrial License?
This license is ideal for businesses in sectors such as:
Consumer Goods
- Personal care products
- Bottled beverages
- Health supplements
- Household cleaning items
Electronics and Assembly
- Circuit board assembly
- Mobile accessories manufacturing
- Light machinery
Fashion and Textiles
- Garment finishing
- Branding and tagging
- Textile printing
Food and Beverage
- Bottling and packaging (non-perishable)
- Snacks and dry food preparation
- Tea blending and packaging (a DMCC specialty)
If your business involves transforming or preparing goods in a commercial capacity, then this is the license you need.
Benefits of Having a DMCC Industrial License
Starting an industrial business in DMCC gives you more than just legal approval. It comes with a full suite of advantages that support growth and sustainability.
100% Foreign Ownership
Own your industrial business completely without a UAE national sponsor.
Tax-Free Profits
There’s 0% corporate tax and 0% personal income tax, letting you reinvest more of your earnings.
Strategic Logistics
You get access to Dubai’s logistics network—airports, ports, and highways—making it easy to import materials and export products globally.
Access to DMCC Business Community
Collaborate with 22,000+ companies within the zone. This includes suppliers, logistics partners, distributors, and investors.
High-Quality Warehousing and Industrial Units
DMCC offers ready-to-move industrial facilities that meet international standards. Clean, secure, and ideal for efficient production.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a DMCC Industrial License
Setting up a company in DMCC is simple if you follow the steps correctly. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1 – Define Your Business Activity
Decide the exact activity you want to carry out. It should match what you’ll be doing in practice. Examples include:
- “Food packaging and labeling”
- “Electronic component assembly”
- “Health product bottling”
Choosing the correct activity helps avoid penalties later.
Step 2 – Reserve Your Company Name
Pick a company name that follows DMCC’s naming guidelines. Avoid using restricted terms or anything offensive.
Step 3 – Apply for Initial Approval
Submit your application with the business activity, shareholder details, and chosen name. Once approved, you’ll be cleared to move to the documentation phase.
Step 4 – Choose a Warehouse or Industrial Facility
Industrial activities require physical space. DMCC offers:
- Small production units
- Medium-sized manufacturing spaces
- Custom-built facilities
Choose one that suits your scale and future expansion plans.
Step 5 – Submit Required Documents
You’ll need:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Business plan
- Lease agreement for warehouse
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Initial approval certificate
Step 6 – Make Payment and Sign Final Documents
Pay the license fee, registration fee, and rent. Sign your legal documents digitally or in person.
Step 7 – License Issuance
Once everything is reviewed, DMCC issues your:
- Industrial License
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Lease Agreement
- Establishment Card (for visas)
You’re now legally ready to start operations.
Office and Warehouse Space Options in DMCC
DMCC provides modern, flexible industrial facilities with high standards. Depending on your business needs, you can choose from:
Light Industrial Units
Perfect for small-scale production. Includes workspace, storage, and light machinery setup.
Warehousing
For storing raw materials and finished goods. Many units include loading bays, security, and climate control.
Custom-Built Space
For businesses with specific technical requirements. You can work with DMCC to design a layout that fits your process.
All units are connected to utilities, internet, and security systems, and located within the JLT area or approved industrial zones under DMCC.
Visa and Staffing Eligibility
With your DMCC Industrial License, you can sponsor visas for:
- Business owners
- Skilled labor
- Production line workers
- Office staff
- Technicians and supervisors
The number of visas you get depends on the size of your industrial unit. Bigger space = more visas.
Visa Validity
Each visa is valid for 2 years, renewable. You also get access to Emirates ID, medical insurance, and banking services.
License Renewal and Annual Compliance
Your DMCC Industrial License must be renewed every year. Here’s what that involves:
License Renewal
Submit the renewal application with:
- Updated lease agreement
- Payment of renewal fee
- Updated company documents (if anything changed)
Financial Audits
You’re required to maintain financial records and submit an annual audit report. This keeps your company in good standing and supports transparency.
VAT and Tax Compliance
If your revenue exceeds AED 375,000, you’re required to register for VAT and submit quarterly filings.
Estimated Cost of DMCC Industrial License
Costs vary based on the size of your space, business activity, and visa needs. Here’s a general idea:
Licensing & Registration Fees
- Industrial License: From AED 12,000
- Registration Fee: AED 9,000 – 10,000
Warehouse Lease
- Small unit: From AED 25,000/year
- Medium unit: From AED 45,000/year
- Custom space: Price varies
Visa and Establishment
- Establishment Card: AED 1,800
- Visa per person: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000
- Emirates ID and Medical: Extra
You can also add additional services like PRO, VAT registration, or legal compliance if needed.
Industries Thriving with DMCC Industrial Licenses
Many sectors benefit from DMCC’s support and licensing flexibility:
Health and Wellness Products
Manufacture and package supplements, beauty items, and skincare products.
Packaging and Printing
Operate in branding, packaging, labeling, or box assembly.
Consumer Electronics
Assemble or enhance tech gadgets and accessories.
Beverage Bottling and Tea Blending
DMCC has dedicated facilities and trade support for tea companies and dry food manufacturers.
Why Choose DMCC Over Other Free Zones?
DMCC stands out because it offers:
Strategic Location
You’re close to Dubai Marina, Jebel Ali Port, and major highways—perfect for logistics.
Business-Friendly Environment
DMCC is known for its fast approval process, transparent costs, and digital systems.
High Credibility
A DMCC license holds weight in the UAE and internationally. Your clients and partners will trust your brand more.
Conclusion
Getting a DMCC Industrial License in Dubai is not just about legalizing your business—it’s about setting up your brand in a respected, supportive, and future-ready environment. Whether you’re into manufacturing, packaging, or assembly, DMCC gives you the space, structure, and strategic location you need to grow.
If you’re ready to launch your industrial operations in Dubai, reach out to Incorpyfy—a leading Business Setup Consultants Company in Dubai, UAE. Our experts will guide you through every step, from documentation to licensing, office setup, and visa processing. With Incorpyfy, your business journey begins with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
Can I do manufacturing with a DMCC license?
Yes, the Industrial License allows light manufacturing, assembly, and processing, but not heavy industrial operations.
Do I need a warehouse to apply?
Yes. You must lease an approved warehouse or production unit in DMCC to get the industrial license.
How long does the process take?
It usually takes 7 to 15 working days, depending on documentation and approval speed.
Can I get visas with this license?
Yes, your visa quota depends on the size of your industrial space. You can apply for staff and family visas.
Is DMCC better than other free zones for industrial business?
If you’re focused on light manufacturing with trade access, DMCC offers unmatched benefits in terms of location, compliance, and infrastructure.
Can I upgrade my warehouse later?
Absolutely. You can upgrade or relocate within DMCC based on your business growth.
Are financial audits mandatory?
Yes, companies must submit audited financial statements annually to stay compliant with DMCC regulations.
