Dubai CommerCity (DCC) Freezone Company Setup

Set up your business in Dubai CommerCity, the premier e-commerce free zone located in Umm Ramool near Dubai International Airport. It is collectively incorporated by the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority and Al Wasl, focusing on contributing highly to the digital economy. Dubai CommerCity is also a part of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), benefitting investors with its various company packages and top-class facilities. The DCC Free Zone is a major source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the UAE, since it provides a business environment that encourages innovation and development. 

The Dubai CommerCity, an e-commerce sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, continues to flourish and has substantial growth. In this thriving environment, Dubai CommerCity positions itself as the premier hub for businesses looking to enter the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt markets, representing a huge percentage of the region's e-commerce landscape. This growing digital commerce opportunity in this region helps investors and entrepreneurs set up digital commerce businesses that serve e-commerce and new technological applications. 

At Filings.ae, we offer comprehensive support for your Dubai Commercity freezone company setup in this dynamic environment.

Dubai CommerCity (DCC) - A City for e-commerce business in Dubai Airport’s Freezone

Dubai CommerCity (DCC), wholly owned by the Dubai government, stands out as an exclusive e-commerce-focused free zone established in 2020. It's strategically designed to be a pivotal hub for global e-commerce enterprises looking to penetrate the Middle East Africa and South Asia (MEASA). Dubai Commercity is suitable for the setup or expansion of digital commerce business or providing services for regional or internal digital commerce businesses. DCC extends a comprehensive suite of services and business solutions, encompassing company setup, registration, licensing, visa facilitation, and additional supportive measures to its clientele.

With a massive investment of AED 3.2 billion, this free zone offers an expansive 2.1 million sq ft of space, including 320,000 sq ft of offices, 145,000 sq ft of logistics units, and multi-client warehouses. It is supported by the Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) and global logistics leaders like Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and DHL, Dubai CommerCity provides end-to-end innovative solutions for digital commerce businesses.

Various Facilities in Dubai CommerCity 

The Facilities in Dubai Commercity is structured into three distinct clusters—business, Logistics, and Social,

Business Clusters:

The Business Cluster serves as the core hub for all commercial transactions and encompasses 12 office buildings covering a total of 240,000 sqm of built-up space. Each building features innovative architecture and landscaping that adheres to the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards, emphasizing sustainability through the use of renewable energy and water recycling systems. The cluster offers premium Grade A offices for rent, providing a variety of flexible leasing options that can be easily scaled to accommodate your business's growth.

Logistics Cluster:

The Logistics Cluster is specifically designed to optimize e-commerce logistics and supply chain operations. It includes a range of dedicated fulfillment solutions tailored for online businesses, along with multi-client facilities managed by our partners. This setup operates on a pay-as-you-go pricing model, allowing for cost-effective logistics management that adapts to the dynamic requirements of e-commerce.

Social Cluster:

The Social Cluster is a vibrant environment that hosts a variety of food halls, cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and open spaces. Centrally located within Dubai CommerCity, it offers a wide array of activities and amenities, making it an ideal spot for a break from the busy office atmosphere or to enjoy a casual coffee. Additionally, this cluster features display centres where businesses can showcase their products to the public, as well as multi-purpose halls suitable for conferences, art exhibitions, and fashion shows. This fosters a sense of community among e-commerce professionals and entrepreneurs, encouraging networking and collaboration.

Dubai CommerCity offers a variety of useful services, like warehousing, last-mile delivery, e-commerce technology platform and services, and customs consulting. It also caters to a broad spectrum of business operations and licensing needs across diverse sectors, including but not limited to e-commerce, logistics, IT, fashion, jewellery, and electronics, thereby positioning itself as a versatile and advantageous setting for e-commerce ventures.

Advantages of Dubai CommerCity (DCC) Freezone

Dubai CommerCity (DCC) Freezone offers many advantages for businesses, especially those in the e-commerce sector, looking to establish or expand their presence in the Middle East and Africa. Dubai CommerCity (DCC) Freezone offers a myriad of advantages for businesses:

• Strategic Location: Adjacent to Dubai International Airport, facilitating quick and efficient logistics.
• World-Class Infrastructure: Offers state-of-the-art facilities suitable for various business activities.
• Flexible Office Spaces: Catering to businesses of all sizes, with options for scalability.
• Dynamic Warehousing Solutions: Including dedicated and multi-client warehouses with scalable pricing models.
• Sustainability: Solar-powered warehouses aim to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.
• Tax Benefits: Establishing a digital commerce business in Dubai Commercity provides you with 0% personal and corporate tax.
• End-to-End Logistics: Comprehensive logistics solutions, including last-mile delivery services.
• Tailored Business Setup Solutions: Customized services to meet the unique needs of each business.
• Growth and Innovation: A smart economy base leveraging innovation and technology to support digital commerce.
• Comprehensive Support Services: Including e-commerce system monitoring, consulting, performance marketing, and content services.
• Accessible E-Commerce Ecosystem: Payment gateways, marketing services, call-centre support, and more.
• State Support for Digital Entrepreneurship: Simplified paperwork, approval processes, visa assistance, customs clearance, and banking assistance.

Business Structures at Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity (DCC) is designed to support startups and established businesses in the e-commerce sector. Here's a brief overview of the business structures available at DCC:

Public Limited Liability Company (PLLC)

This entity allows unlimited shareholders, which is ideal for businesses aiming for public listing or offering shares in the securities market. It's also suited for larger companies planning to expand their investor base.

Freezone Company (FZCO)

This flexible structure accommodates 1 to 50 shareholders, individuals or corporate entities. With a minimum share capital requirement of just AED 1, it's an accessible option for many businesses, from startups to more established firms looking to leverage the free zone's benefits.

Free Zone Entity (Branch)

Opening a branch office in DCC is a viable option for businesses already established elsewhere. This allows companies to extend their presence into the UAE market without the need for share capital, operating under the legal identity of the parent company.

Types of Licenses available in Dubai CommerCity (DCC)

Dubai CommerCity (DCC) offers a comprehensive array of license types to accommodate various business activities within the e-commerce and broader commercial sectors. Here's an overview of the licenses available:

• Trade License: This license is ideal for businesses engaged in trading activities such as importing, exporting, re-exporting, distributing, and storing specific goods.
• Service License: Tailored for service-oriented businesses, this license enables the provision of services as detailed within the license parameters.
• Industrial License: This license caters to businesses involved in light manufacturing, assembly, and packaging of goods as specified.
• E-Commerce License: A specialized license for online businesses that facilitates the trade of goods or services via electronic platforms. This license encompasses trade and service activities specifically tailored to digital commerce.
• General Trading License: This license allows for a broad range of trading activities, including the import, export, re-export, storage, and distribution of various goods.
• Dual License with DED: A unique offering that enables companies registered in DCC to obtain a Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) License without necessitating physical office space on the mainland. This dual licensing approach allows businesses to leverage DCC's benefits while expanding their operational scope to the mainland.

Business Activities at Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity offers various business activities to cater to the diverse needs of businesses operating within its ecosystem. With over 1,500 business activities, companies can select activities that align closely with their business models and objectives. These activities fall under the umbrella of the various licenses available at DCC.  The extensive range of activities includes options for companies involved in e-commerce, information technology, logistics, jewellery,  trading, services, light manufacturing, and more.

Documents Required for DCC Freezone Company Registration

For company registration in Dubai CommerCity Freezone (DCC), the required documents generally include:

• Application form: A completed application form for company registration in DCC.
• Business plan: A detailed business plan outlining the nature of the business, market analysis, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
• Passport copies: Clear and valid passport copies of the shareholders and directors of the company.
• Proof of initial approval: Document indicating that initial approval has been granted for the activities the company intends to undertake.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA): Legal documents defining the company's constitution and the internal rules under which the company will operate.
• Board resolution: A board resolution from the parent company (if the DCC company is a branch of an existing company) authorizing the establishment of the new company.
• Power of Attorney: Granting authority to a representative, if applicable.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): If each shareholder and director are residents of the UAE, they must obtain an NOC from the current sponsor.
• Other legal documents: These may include certificates of incorporation, shareholder certificates, and any other legal documents that may be required based on the specific business activity or the company's legal structure.

Please note the specific documents required can vary depending on the type of business activity, the chosen company structure, and whether the shareholders or directors are residents of the UAE or abroad.

Filings.ae expert can assist you in preparing the necessary documents for Dubai CommerCity Freezone company setup.

Procedure for Company Setup in Dubai CommerCity Freezone 

Setting up a company in Dubai CommerCity Free Zone involves a series of well-defined steps to cater to the needs of various e-commerce and related businesses.

Step 1: Choose a Business Activity

The initial step is to clearly define your core business activity, which will influence the type of business license you require. Given DCC's focus on e-commerce and its ancillary services, ensure your chosen activity aligns with this sector. Whether it's online retail, IT solutions, e-commerce logistics, or any other related field, your business activity should fit within the framework of services encouraged and supported by the DCC Free Zone.

Step 2: Select a Business License.

After selecting a Business activity, you must select the appropriate business license type, which varies based on the nature of your business activities. Examples include trade, service, commercial, or e-commerce licenses.

Step 3: Select a Legal Entity

The next step involves deciding on the company structure. You have options like a Free Zone Company (FZCO/FZ-LLC) for multiple shareholders or a Branch Office for existing businesses wanting to expand within Dubai CommerCity. Each choice has specific requirements and benefits tailored to different business models.

Step 4: Choose the right office space

Choosing the right office space or warehouse facility is crucial, as Dubai CommerCity provides a range of options, from smart desks and flexi-desks to dedicated office spaces and warehouses catering to various business sizes and needs. Your specific business requirements and the nature of your operations should influence this choice.

Step 5: Reserve a Company Name

Choose a company name that adheres to DCC’s naming guidelines, ensuring it is unique and not similar to any existing names within the free zone.

Step 6: Submit the Required Documents

Essential documents such as passport copies, proof of address, detailed business plan, Memorandum of Association (MOA), and Articles of Association (AOA) must be submitted.

Step 7: Pay the Necessary Fees

Fees vary depending on the type of license and legal entity chosen. Initial setup costs include the license fee, registration fee, and office space rent.

Step 8: Establishment Card and Visa Processing

After setting up the DCC freezone company, you'll need to obtain an establishment card and process visas and permits for your employees.

Step 9: Open Bank Account

Opening a corporate bank account is necessary to set up a company in the DCC Free Zone. Once your business is established and you've obtained your business license, the final step is opening a corporate bank account.

Filings.ae offers comprehensive assistance at every step of company registration in the Dubai CommerCity Free Zone, ensuring a seamless setup process.

How to Reach Dubai CommerCity Location?

Dubai CommerCity is strategically located to ensure easy access for businesses and visitors. Here’s a quick overview of the commute times and airport proximity:

Commute Dubai CommerCity by Car:

• Dubai Mall: Approximately 18 minutes
• Palm Jumeirah: Around 29 minutes
• Burj Al Arab: About 28 minutes
• The Walk, JBR: Roughly 33 minutes
• Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel: Around 7 minutes

These times make Dubai CommerCity an ideal location for businesses, allowing for convenient travel to some of Dubai's most popular destinations.

Airports Near to Dubai Commercity:

Dubai CommerCity is also well-connected to major airports:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB): Just 9 minutes away by car
• Al Maktoum International Airport: Approximately 47 minutes away

This proximity to the airports facilitates seamless travel for international visitors and enhances businesses' logistics capabilities.

Streamline Dubai CommerCity (DCC) Freezone Company Registration with Filings.ae

Filings.ae offers a streamlined and comprehensive service for entrepreneurs looking to register their companies in the Dubai CommerCity Free Zone. By combining expert guidance on company formation with professional accounting services, Filings.ae simplifies establishing and managing businesses in the UAE. Our services include selecting the appropriate legal entity and obtaining business licenses to ensure tax compliance, and facilitating visa applications. Focusing on customer satisfaction and affordability, we positioned ourselves as a reliable partner for startups and established businesses aiming to thrive in Dubai's dynamic commercial landscape.