Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone company setup
A free zone at the heart of Dubai's trade and events district, suited to businesses connected to exhibitions, trade and corporate services.
At a glance
- Typical set-upConfirm at consultation
- Visa quotaConfirm at consultation
- OfficeConfirm at consultation
- Ownership100% foreign ownership
Best for
Events, trade and corporate-service businesses
About the zone
Why DWTC stands out
The DWTC free zone sits within Dubai's long-established trade and exhibition district on Sheikh Zayed Road, giving companies a central, well-known Dubai address.
It suits events, exhibition, trade and professional-service businesses that value central location and proximity to a major business venue.
- Central Dubai address
- Next to a major exhibition venue
- Suited to events and trade businesses
Worth knowing: Industrial or warehouse-heavy businesses need a different zone.
Key benefits
What a free zone company gives you
100% foreign ownership
Full ownership and control of your company, with no local sponsor required.
Corporate tax benefits
Qualifying Free Zone Persons may pay 0% on qualifying income. Conditions apply, and we check eligibility for you.
Profit repatriation
Move capital and profits abroad without currency restrictions.
Remote-friendly set-up
Most of the application can be completed online, with in-person steps only for visa formalities.
Residency visa route
Investor and employee visas are available within the zone's quota.
Banking support
We prepare your file and introduce you to banks that match your activity.
Tax treatment depends on your structure and activity. Our advisers confirm eligibility before you commit.
Allowed activities
What you can do in DWTC
Popular activities for this zone. The full permitted list is longer, and we match your business model to the right licence before you commit.
Set-up process
6 steps to launch in DWTC
From first call to your first bank transaction, we handle the paperwork and the government portals.
- 1
Consultation and activity check
We match your business to the right licence and zone, and list the documents you'll need.
- 2
Name reservation and approvals
We submit your proposed company names and confirm your activity is permitted.
- 3
Licence application
We file the application, shareholder documents and lease through the zone's portal.
- 4
Establishment card and visa
Once licensed, we apply for your establishment card and investor visa entry permit.
- 5
Medical, biometrics and Emirates ID
We book your appointments. You attend a short medical and biometrics session.
- 6
Corporate bank account
We introduce you to suitable UAE banks and support you through onboarding.
Documents
What you need to provide
We handle the government paperwork. This is everything we'll ask you for at the start.
- Passport copies for all shareholders, valid for 6+ months
- Passport-style photos on a white background
- Three proposed company names
- A list of your intended business activities
- Signed application form from the shareholder
- Recent proof of address, such as a utility bill
- Existing UAE visa and Emirates ID, if resident
- NOC from your current UAE sponsor, if employed
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Explore other free zones
DWTC FAQ
Costs depend on your activity, number of visas and office type. We prepare a written quote with every government fee itemised after a short consultation.
Typically confirm at consultation once documents are complete. Visas and the bank account follow after the licence is issued.
Confirm at consultation. Additional visas may be available depending on your package and office. We confirm the exact quota for your activity.
Confirm at consultation. Requirements depend on the licence and activity, and we advise on the most cost-effective option.
Free zone companies can generally trade with other free zone businesses, export abroad and use e-commerce platforms. Selling directly to UAE consumers usually needs a mainland licence or a distributor, and we explain the options for your model.
Much of the process can be done remotely. You would normally need to attend in person for the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics if you apply for a residency visa.
Leave Your Contact Details
Our legal and corporate advisors will analyze your request and provide a tailored proposal within 24 hours.
