Dubai free zone, DWTC
Set up your company in Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone
The epicentre for business in the Middle East, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has played a pivotal role in the growth of Dubai's business tourism and trade since its inauguration in 1979. DWTC offers a unique and highly desirable proposition for businesses seeking a competitive, well-regulated ecosystem to compete more effectively regionally and globally. Strategically positioned in Dubai's Central Business District, it is the region's largest purpose-built complex for events and exhibitions, ideal for startups, SMEs and large corporations operating locally while reaching global markets.
- 100% foreign ownership
- Central Business District
- Region's largest events hub
- Online company setup
Why DWTC
A prestige address in the centre of Dubai.
DWTC offers a competitive, well-regulated network in Dubai's Central Business District, with unmatched access to the region's biggest events, exhibitions and networking.
100% ownership
Own your company outright, with no local sponsor or partner.
Central Business District
A prestigious, central Dubai address for your business.
Events network
At the region's largest events and exhibitions complex.
Tax advantages
Free zone tax treatment with no personal income tax.
Full repatriation
Move 100% of your capital and profits with no currency limits.
Online setup
A streamlined, largely online application via a secure platform.
What you can run
Licenses for every business.
DWTC issues licenses across commercial, professional, event management and E-commerce activities. We match the right one to your plan.
Commercial license
Trading, import, export and general commerce.
Professional license
Consultancy and professional services.
Event management
Events, exhibitions and conference businesses.
E-commerce license
Online retail and digital businesses.
DWTC suits startups, SMEs and large corporations alike. We confirm your exact activity before you apply.
Choose your structure
Two ways to form in DWTC.
DWTC company types are based on the number of shareholders. We confirm the right structure for your ownership.
FZE (single shareholder)
A Free Zone Establishment for one individual or one company.
FZM Solutions FZCO (multiple shareholders)
A free zone company for two to ten shareholders, individuals, companies or both.
What it costs
DWTC company setup cost.
Indicative DWTC packages by facility, for commercial, professional, event management or E-commerce licenses. We confirm a fixed, all-in quote before you commit.
| Flexi Desk (1 visa) | Hot Desk (2 visas) | Executive Office (3 visas) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration (one-time) | AED 2,000 | AED 2,000 | AED 2,000 |
| License (year 1) | AED 3,000 | AED 3,000 | AED 3,000 |
| Establishment card | AED 2,300 | AED 2,300 | AED 2,300 |
| Security deposit | AED 3,500 | AED 3,500 | AED 3,500 |
| Facility (incl. VAT) | AED 10,500 | AED 15,750 | AED 31,500 |
| Total (year 1) | AED 21,300 | AED 26,550 | AED 42,300 |
- From year two the license is around AED 5,000, and the registration and security deposit do not recur (following-year totals roughly AED 17,800 / 23,050 / 38,800).
- Residence visa application is around AED 3,200 per applicant, plus medical, Emirates ID and any change of status.
- Figures are indicative. We confirm a live, all-in quote for your setup.
How we help
From application to open for business.
- 01
Apply online
We submit your application and company profile via a secure platform.
- 02
Initial approval
We provide the documents, UBO form and specimen signature for approval.
- 03
Bank and capital
We help open the UAE account, deposit capital and attest the MoA.
- 04
License and visas
We issue the license and process your residence visas and Emirates ID.
Why FZM
Dedicated Senior advisory.
You will work directly with a Dedicated Senior advisor from day one. Your advisor will assess your requirements, identify the most suitable jurisdictions, manage the entire application process, and remain your long-term point of contact for ongoing guidance and support.
- Since 1979
- DWTC established
- 1,500+
- Companies formed
- 15+
- Years in the UAE
- CBD
- Central Dubai
Keep exploring
More on setting up in Dubai.
Good to know
DWTC questions, answered.
- What is DWTC best for?
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is a free zone in Dubai's Central Business District and the region's largest events and exhibitions complex, established in 1979. It is best for businesses that want a prestigious central address and proximity to major events, including commercial, professional, event management and E-commerce companies, from startups to large corporations.
- Can I set up a DWTC company online?
- Yes. DWTC company setup is largely online through a secure platform. You submit your application and an initial set of documents, then provide a few items such as the UBO form and specimen signature for approval. We manage the whole online process for you.
- How much does a DWTC company cost?
- Indicative first-year packages are around AED 21,300 for a Flexi Desk with one visa, AED 26,550 for a Hot Desk with two visas, and AED 42,300 for an Executive Office with three visas. These include registration, the year-one license, establishment card, security deposit and the facility. From year two the license is around AED 5,000 and some one-off fees drop away. We confirm a fixed, all-in quote.
- What company structures does DWTC offer?
- DWTC offers two structures based on the number of shareholders: a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for a single shareholder, and a free zone company (FZM Solutions FZCO) for two to ten shareholders, who can be individuals, companies or a mix. We confirm the right one for your ownership.
- How do residence visas work with DWTC?
- Your visa quota is linked to your package: one visa with a Flexi Desk, two with a Hot Desk and three with an Executive Office. The residence visa application is around AED 3,200 per applicant, plus medical and Emirates ID. We process the entry permit, medical, Emirates ID and visa for you.
Maha BadrHighly recommended. A professional team, prompt on every detailed query and seamless on every requirement, trade license, corporate tax, bank account, residence ID, medical.
Largo HomeSimply impeccable. They didn't just meet deadlines, they anticipated them, with quick and effective solutions even in complex situations.
Maciej KolodziejczykVery efficient. Company formation, employment contract, residency visa, and all the prerequisites handled. Friendly and professional throughout.
Ready to incorporate
One advisor.From company formation to corporate banking.
A 30-minute consultation is all it takes to receive a tailored proposal, a transparent quotation, and a written roadmap delivered the same day. You will deal directly with an experienced advisor throughout the process.
- Response instantly
- Five languages spoken
- Independent. Not a license reseller.