Setting up a gold and precious metals business in Dubai is one of the most profitable opportunities in the region. If you’re planning to tap into the booming bullion trade, getting a Gems and gold trading license in DMCC is your smartest move.
Why DMCC Is the Hub for Gold and Precious Metals Trading
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre license is the gold standard—literally—when it comes to legal and secure gold trade in the UAE. DMCC is a government-backed free zone located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Dubai. It’s known globally for hosting the most reputable gold trading companies in Dubai.
DMCC as a Global Gold Gateway
With over 1,000 companies in the precious metals and stones sector, DMCC plays a major role in connecting traders across Africa, India, Europe, and beyond. It offers a safe, transparent, and regulated environment, making it the first choice for any gold trading business setup in Dubai.
How to Start a Gold Trading Business in Dubai (DMCC)
Starting a business in the gold sector involves several key steps. Here’s a simplified guide to help you understand the full process of obtaining a gold trading license in Dubai.
Choose the Right Business Activity
The first step is selecting the correct activity:
- Precious Metals Trading
- Gold and Diamond Trading
- Jewelry Trading
For a free zone gold trading license Dubai, DMCC has a list of approved activities under the gems and precious metals category.
Finalize Your Trade Name
Pick a trade name that matches DMCC’s naming guidelines. It should not contain any offensive words, abbreviations, or previously registered terms.
Submit Your Initial Application
Apply directly through the DMCC online portal. This includes basic details like shareholder names, passport copies, and business structure.
Documents Required for Gems and Gold Trading License in DMCC
Here are the primary documents you’ll need:
Personal and Company Documents
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
- Business plan (for large-scale operations)
- No objection certificate (if applicable)
These documents are critical when applying for your Dubai gold license requirements under DMCC.
DMCC License Cost for Gold Trading Companies
The DMCC license cost depends on various factors like office size, number of shareholders, and specific business activities.
Estimated Costs
- License Fee: AED 15,000 – AED 25,000
- Flexi Desk or Office Lease: Starting from AED 16,000/year
- Registration & Setup Fees: Around AED 10,000
- Share Capital: AED 50,000 (deposit not always required)
Keep in mind, these numbers can vary. It’s smart to speak to a DMCC-approved consultant before you begin your DMCC company formation.
Benefits of Getting a Free Zone Gold Trading License in Dubai
Choosing DMCC over other options gives you several strong benefits that matter in the long run.
100% Ownership
Foreign investors get full ownership of their gold trading company in Dubai without needing a local sponsor.
Tax-Free Benefits
No corporate or personal income tax. That’s a major plus when planning your Dubai gold business setup.
Repatriation of Capital
You can transfer profits and capital back to your home country easily and legally.
Strategic Location
DMCC is situated near Jebel Ali Port and Dubai International Airport—perfect for global shipping and logistics.
Gold Import Export License Dubai – What You Need to Know
To legally bring in and ship out gold bars, bullion, and jewelry, you’ll need a gold import export license Dubai. This license is part of the broader DMCC package for traders.
Required Approvals
You may need approval from:
- Dubai Customs
- Dubai Police (for high-value cargo)
- Dubai Municipality (for retail jewelry businesses)
DMCC makes this process easy through its single-window clearance system.
Setting Up a Physical Store vs. Online Gold Trading Business
Whether you want a boutique for high-end jewelry or a digital gold trading platform, DMCC accommodates both.
Physical Shop Setup
You’ll need to rent or lease a space in a DMCC-approved zone. Retail shops need extra permits for in-person customer sales.
Online Gold Trading
DMCC allows 100% digital business operations, especially for B2B platforms, digital gold tokens, and blockchain-based assets.
Steps to Launch a Gold Trading Company in DMCC
- Reserve your company name
- Select the gold trading activity
- Submit documents and application
- Pay the license and setup fees
- Open a business bank account
- Start trading legally under DMCC rules
This roadmap applies whether you’re an individual investor or launching a full-fledged gold trading company in Dubai.
Dubai Gold License Requirements You Should Know
There are a few compliance checks and basic rules to follow:
Mandatory Compliance
- Annual audit submission
- Anti-money laundering (AML) adherence
- Know Your Customer (KYC) policies
- Proper documentation of trade records
These are part of the Dubai gold license requirements every business must meet.
Who Should Apply for the DMCC Gold License?
Anyone involved in the following activities can apply:
- Gold bullion trading
- Wholesale gold distribution
- Jewelry manufacturing or resale
- B2B precious metals platforms
- Gold import/export services
So, if you’re serious about entering this industry, applying for a Gems and gold trading license in DMCC is the ideal first step.
Banking and Payment Solutions for Gold Traders in DMCC
Opening a bank account for your gold business is simpler in DMCC than elsewhere in the UAE.
Trusted Banking Partners
Banks like Emirates NBD, ADCB, and Mashreq regularly work with DMCC-registered entities. They offer custom gold trading account solutions.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to set up a gold trading company in Dubai, there’s no better place than DMCC. With 100% foreign ownership, strong legal protection, low tax, and unmatched infrastructure, DMCC helps your business thrive.
Whether you’re importing, exporting, manufacturing, or selling gold—this is the license you need.
FREEZONE BUSINESS SETUP IN DUBAI, UAE is the smartest choice for anyone entering the gold and gems industry.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a DMCC gold trading license?
It typically takes 2–4 weeks if all documents are in order.
Can I own 100% of my gold trading company in DMCC?
Yes. DMCC offers full foreign ownership.
What’s the minimum capital required?
AED 50,000 is the usual share capital. Sometimes, the deposit is waived.
Can I import and export gold under this license?
Yes, your gold import export license Dubai covers international shipments.
Is it mandatory to have an office space?
Yes, at least a flexi-desk within DMCC is required.
What are the taxes on gold trading in DMCC?
There are no corporate or personal income taxes.
Is DMCC regulated for gold trading?
Yes, DMCC is globally recognized and compliant with international standards.
Can I do retail jewelry sales with this license?
Yes, if you have the right activity and approvals.
Can I run an online gold business under this license?
Yes. E-commerce gold platforms are permitted under DMCC.
Do I need to renew the license yearly?
Yes, it must be renewed every year with compliance checks.
