Crypto
Jul 1, 2025
As the global economy undergoes digital transformation, the UAE Crypto emerges as a prime hub for cryptocurrency businesses seeking international expansion. Among its many free zones, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is a popular choice for securing a crypto license, offering 100% business ownership, forward-thinking regulations, and a straightforward setup process.
While many entrepreneurs are aware that they can obtain a DMCC crypto license, fewer understand the actual costs associated with it. In this guide, we break down the DMCC crypto license cost and the key factors that influence it so that you can plan your investment wisely. Need guidance from seasoned professionals? Connect with the Ape Law web3 legal experts.
Table of Contents
Benefits of DMCC Crypto License
1. Tax and Financial Benefits of the DMCC Crypto License
The DMCC Crypto License provides multiple financial benefits that can significantly enhance your cryptocurrency business. Firstly, companies licensed by the DMCC and operating outside the UAE mainland are exempt from paying federal corporate tax. This means that if you do not deal with UAE residents, you can avoid the 9% corporate tax entirely. There are also no customs duties to worry about, allowing for smooth cross-border operations with other GCC countries. Furthermore, there is full capital repatriation for your crypto firm, meaning there are no restrictions on the transfer of funds to your home country. Finally, setup costs for a DMCC crypto license are relatively low, starting at around $20,000, plus a paid-up capital requirement of AED 50,000.
2. Have Full Ownership with a DMCC Crypto License
When you obtain a crypto license from DMCC, you can have complete ownership of your business without needing a local partner or sponsor. This means you maintain full control and strategic autonomy of your crypto company.
3. Specialized Infrastructure and Support for Crypto Businesses
The DMCC provides specialized infrastructure for crypto businesses licensed in the DMCC Free Zone. This includes access to the DMCC Crypto Centre, located in Almas Tower, which offers co-working space, high-speed internet, data centres, and on-site legal and audit services. You will also benefit from a dedicated banking desk that assists crypto firms in opening corporate bank accounts. Additionally, an advanced tech ecosystem is in place, featuring secure trading environments, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity protocols, and KYC/AML compliance services.
4. Regulatory Clarity for Crypto Companies
The DMCC crypto license provides clear regulatory guidelines under UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 2022. The law, along with the licensing process from DMCC and VARA, covers a wide range of crypto activities, including trading, custody, advisory services, NFTs, mining, and DLT services. Obtaining a DMCC crypto license also improves your credibility among global partners, as the process involves rigorous fit-and-proper checks. Lastly, the DMCC Free Zone is highly trusted, having ranked as the top international free zone for eight consecutive years by Financial Times’ fDi Intelligence.
5. Quick and Easy Setup
Crypto businesses can expect fast licensing approvals when applying for a DMCC crypto license. The process typically takes around 7–10 business days. There is also a structured application process in place, which includes submitting a business plan, undergoing due diligence, and participating in technical interviews. Overall, you can expect to receive your license within 8 to 9 weeks.
6. Networking and Community Opportunities
DMCC crypto license holders have access to a robust community of cryptocurrency businesses, enabling them to leverage this network and expand their operations. For instance, numerous ecosystem events help foster collaboration, including exclusive conferences, workshops, and mentorship programs. There are also alumni networks that you can tap into. Additionally, DMCC offers global access to licensed companies, leveraging Dubai's strategic location to reach Europe, Asia, and Africa, and connect with international investors.
7. Security, Compliance, and Transparency
The DMCC takes security and compliance seriously, enforcing robust AML/KYC standards for crypto firms licensed in the Free Zone. This ensures operational integrity and builds trust among investors. Moreover, businesses must undergo annual audits, quarterly reporting, cybersecurity penetration testing, and CPD for personnel. The planned Crypto Tower will further enhance transparency, embedding smart contracts and blockchain tools to boost operational integrity.
8. Public Trust and Recognition
Obtaining a crypto license from DMCC signals compliance and operational legitimacy, which can enhance trust among investors and counterparties. Strategic partnerships—like DMCC’s alliance with Ankr—further enrich the ecosystem with infrastructure support for over 500 Web3 firms.
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Who Needs a DMCC Crypto License
A DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) crypto license is required for individuals or entities intending to engage in cryptocurrency-related activities within the DMCC Free Zone in Dubai. This license legitimizes operations involving virtual assets and ensures compliance with local regulations.
Crypto License for Proprietary Trading
Entities planning to conduct the following activities within the DMCC Free Zone must obtain a crypto license: Engaging in the buying and selling of crypto commodities on one's account.
Crypto License for Distributed Ledger Technology
Providing services related to blockchain technologies, such as developing and maintaining decentralized applications.
Crypto License for NFT E-Marketplaces
Operating platforms for creating, selling, or exchanging Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs).
Crypto License for Metaverse Services
Offering products or services related to virtual environments and augmented reality experiences.
Crypto License for Crypto Mining
Activities related to the validation of transactions and the addition of new blocks to a blockchain network. For activities regulated by the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), such as operating a cryptocurrency exchange or providing custodial services, an additional license from VARA is required in conjunction with the DMCC license.
Setting up a crypto business in the UAE can be complex, but Ape Law makes it seamless. As Web3-native legal experts, we handle crypto licensing, business structuring, and compliance so you can focus on growth. Whether you're launching a new coin, token, and/or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup. Ready to establish your business in the UAE? Book a free consultation today to navigate the legalities of setting up a Web3 business in the UAE with ease!
DMCC Crypto License Cost
DMCC Official Schedule of Charges
The DMCC schedule itself doesn’t list crypto‑specific fees, but general components apply:
Pre-approval: ~AED 1,000 (≈ AED 1,035)
Company registration: AED 9,020
MOA (Memorandum of Association): AED 2,020
Trade/license fee: AED 20,285 annually
Establishment card: AED 1,820–1,835 annually
These are standard across most free‑zone license types, including crypto.
Insights from PRI Finance
PRI Finance, a source that focuses on VASP, provides additional details:
Minimum share capital: AED 50,000
License fee: AED 20,285 (approx USD 5,534)
Registration card: AED 1,825
Emirates ID: AED 425
Other: costs for visas, office, bank setup, DIAC registrations, etc.
Shuraa's Take on Crypto Licensing
Shuraa highlights capital requirement as the key crypto setup cost:
Minimum capital required: AED 50,000
They point out that Shuraa specialists can confirm any other hidden charges (though they don’t specify beyond the capital).
Aston VIP / OnTimeBiz Breakdown of Costs
These consultants highlight broader financials:
Application fee: AED 10,020 one‑time
Annual license renewal: ≈ AED 20,000
Flexi‑desk rental: AED 16,000–25,000/year
Private office: AED 55+/sqft (typically AED 80–150/sqft)
Visa per person: AED 4,500 each (incl. medical/ID)
Establishment card deposit: AED 2,000
Insurance: AED 35,000–150,000 depending on activity
Cybersecurity audits: ~AED 40,000 each, bi‑annual
Other (bookkeeping, audit, bank fees): Highly variable
Estimated Year‑1 budget
Advisory‑type firm: from AED 400,000
Full exchange: upwards of AED 2 million
How to Get a DMCC Crypto License in 10 Steps
1. Simplifying Crypto Licensing with Ape Law
Establishing a crypto business in the UAE can be intricate, but Ape Law simplifies the process. We are Web3 native legal experts who handle crypto licensing, business structuring, and compliance, so you can focus on growth. Whether you’re launching a new coin, token, and/or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup. Ready to establish your business in the UAE? Book a free consultation today to navigate the legalities of setting up a Web3 business in the UAE with ease!
2. Selecting Your Business Activity & Legal Structure
Begin by deciding which crypto-related activity you’ll engage in within DMCC’s framework: Proprietary trading in crypto commodities; Distributed Ledger Technology services (e.g., blockchain development); NFT marketplace operations; Metaverse services. Each activity has unique compliance and licensing implications. Structure your company as a Free Zone Company (FZCO/FZE/LLC-like entity) and choose a compliant trade name.
3. Reserving Your Company Name & Registering Your Legal Entity
Submit up to three trade names for approval. Then, register your legal entity via DMCC’s portal. The timeline from pre-approval to incorporation typically takes two to four weeks, with the following breakdown: pre-approval (seven to ten days), and registration (approximately one week).
4. Meeting Capital & Compliance Requirements
The minimum share capital is AED 50,000 (which must be deposited in a corporate bank account within months of registration). You must also hold sufficient operating funds (six months’ expenses for trading; twelve months for exchanges). Additionally, prepare a detailed business plan, AML/CFT policies, and KYC compliance documents.
5. Leasing Office Space
DMCC mandates that you have a physical office presence. This can be either a flexi-desk or serviced office (18,500–40,000 AED/year) or a private office (starting at ~60 AED/sq ft).
6. Opening a Bank Account & Depositing Capital
While preparing your license application, simultaneously open a crypto friendly corporate bank account and deposit the required capital (AED 50,000).
7. Preparing & Submitting Your Application
Gather key documents, including passports, proof of address, business plan, financials, KYC/AML policies, and resumes of directors/shareholders. Then, apply through DMCC + Dubai's VARA (or SCA), including a pre-approval step. Pay fees, including application (approximately AED 2,000), license (20,285 AED), establishment card (1,835 AED), Emirates ID (~425 AED).
8. Awaiting Approval & Compliance Clearance
DMCC processes your application (typically within seven to ten business days). VARA or the relevant regulator will conduct background checks, review compliance documentation and your proof of capital. The total timeline is roughly four to six weeks; this could extend to a few months depending on documentation accuracy.
9. Finalizing Regulatory & Corporate Formalities
Upon license issuance, sign final agreements with DMCC. Complete visa and Emirates ID processes. Activate your office lease and bank account. Implement internal compliance systems, including transaction monitoring, security protocols, and annual audit submission.
10. Maintaining & Renewing Your License
Annual renewal includes license (20,285 AED), establishment card (1,835 AED), and office rent. Ongoing obligations include maintaining minimum capital, adhering to AML/CFT protocols, submitting annual audit and financial statements, and renewing visas.
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Book a Free Consultation to Navigate the Legalities of Setting up a Web3 Business in the UAE
Establishing a cryptocurrency venture in the United Arab Emirates can feel overwhelming. However, the process becomes smooth with the right team backing you. Ape Law specializes in cryptocurrency law, so you can rest assured knowing your legalities are covered as you focus on launching your business and nurturing it to health and growth.
How Ape Law Simplifies Complex Crypto Regulations
Ape Law is different from the typical law firm. Our team specializes in Web3 technology — not just crypto, but everything that falls under the umbrella of decentralized networks and applications. We understand the ins and outs of crypto and NFTs, which allows us to offer tailored legal solutions to crypto businesses. Our services go beyond traditional legal support. We help clients obtain crypto licenses, structure their businesses, and ensure tax efficiency. Whether you’re launching a new coin, token, or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup.
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