Can I operate on the UAE mainland with a DWTC license?

Yes. DWTC offers a Business Operating Permit (BOP) for dual licensing. Dubai EC Resolution 11/2025 also allows free zone companies to establish mainland branches without forming separate entities.

How many visas can I get with a DWTC license?

Visa allocation depends on your package and office type. Flexi-desk packages offer up to 2 visas. Private offices can support 6 or more visas. You can request additional visas by upgrading your office space through the eServices portal.

Is DWTC the right free zone for a crypto business?

DWTC is the home jurisdiction of VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority). It is the only designated free zone in Dubai for regulated virtual asset activities. You need both a DWTC trade license and a VARA VASP license. Minimum capital requirements start at AED 100,000 for advisory services.

What types of licenses does DWTC offer?

DWTC offers seven license categories: Commercial, General Trading, Professional, Event Management, E-Commerce, Family Office, and Virtual Asset. Each license can include up to 10 business activities from a pool of 1,200+ options.

How long does it take to set up a company in DWTC?

The typical setup timeline is 3-4 weeks. Initial approval takes 2-3 working days. License issuance takes approximately 10 working days after lease signing. The establishment card is issued within 3 working days after licensing.

Do I need to be physically present to set up a DWTC company?

No. The entire setup process can be completed remotely through the DWTC eServices portal. You can track your application, manage requests, and access your dashboard from anywhere.

What is the corporate tax rate for DWTC companies?

Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) pay 0% corporate tax on qualifying income. Non-qualifying income is taxed at the standard 9% rate. All entities must register with the Federal Tax Authority and file annual returns, regardless of QFZP status.

Does DWTC offer family office licensing?

Yes. DWTC offers dedicated licensing for both Single Family Offices (SFO) and Multi-Family Offices (MFO). The previous AED 500,000 liquid asset requirement was waived in February 2025, making setup more accessible.

What is the minimum share capital for a DWTC company?

The minimum share capital is AED 1,000 per share. For companies with total share capital of AED 300,000 or below, a paid-up capital bank certificate is not mandatory. Paid-up capital proof is required for share capital above AED 300,000.

DubaiFree ZoneVAT Designated

Start Your Business in Dubai's Most Connected Free Zone

The Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone puts your business at the center of Dubai's Central Business District. Choose from 1,200+ licensed activities, access both free zone and mainland markets through dual licensing, and connect with 2 million annual event attendees.

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100% Foreign OwnershipDual License: Free Zone + Mainland0% Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income1,200+ Licensed ActivitiesHome of VARA (Virtual Assets)

Registered Companies

2,818+

Licensed Activities

1,200+

Annual Events

500+

Corporate Tax

0%*

Setup Timeline

3-4 Weeks

The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone is a premium business hub in the heart of Dubai, directly on Sheikh Zayed Road. Established under Law No. 9 of 2015 and operated by the DWTCA under the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), it spans multiple landmark properties including One Central (LEED Gold certified), Sheikh Rashid Tower (39 floors), Convention Tower, and the One Za'abeel extension added in 2024. The zone is uniquely integrated with the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, hosting over 500 annual events including GITEX Global, Gulfood, and Arab Health.

Dual License for Full Market Access

Operate in both the free zone and the UAE mainland through the Business Operating Permit (BOP). Dubai EC Resolution 11/2025 now allows free zone companies to establish mainland branches without forming separate entities.

0% Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income

Qualifying Free Zone Persons pay 0% corporate tax on qualifying income. No personal income tax. Full profit and capital repatriation with no currency restrictions.

Integrated Events and Exhibition Ecosystem

Direct access to the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre with 500+ annual events and over 2 million attendees. Unmatched networking and visibility for your business.

VARA Hub for Virtual Assets

The only designated free zone in Dubai for regulated virtual asset activities. Streamlined pathway to obtain both a DWTC trade license and a VARA VASP license under one roof.

Premium CBD Location

Located on Sheikh Zayed Road with direct metro access via World Trade Centre station. Minutes from DIFC, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai International Airport.

100% Foreign Ownership

Full ownership of your business without requiring a local sponsor or UAE national partner. Applicable to all entity types: FZE, FZCO, and branch offices.

Starter

AEDCustom

Billed annually

Trade license
Business address
eServices access

Entrepreneur

AEDCustom

Billed annually

Trade license
1 visa allocation
20hr/month workspace
Business address

Spark

AEDCustom

Billed annually

Trade license
2 visa allocations
40hr/month workspace
Business address

Executive

AEDCustom

Billed annually

Private office
Trade license
6+ visa allocations
Private office
Premium business address

standard

Commercial License

Available

standard

General Trading License

Available

standard

Professional License

Available

standard

Event Management License

Available

standard

E-Commerce License

Available

standard

Family Office License

Available

standard

Virtual Asset License

Available

Frequently Asked Questions

Setup costs start from approximately AED 13,000 for the Starter package (business address only, no visa). The Entrepreneur package with one visa starts from AED 22,000. The Spark package with two visas starts from AED 28,000. Executive packages with private offices start from AED 50,000. All pricing is indicative and package-based.

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