Set Up a Company in Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone
Iconic Sheikh Zayed Road location. Home to Dubai's premier exhibition centre. Prestigious central address.
Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone
DWTC Authority
- Sheikh Zayed Road, Central Dubai, Dubai
- Regulated by DWTC Authority
- Established 2015
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose DWTC?
Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone offers a prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road address in central Dubai. Located at the iconic DWTC complex — home to major exhibitions and events — the free zone provides excellent connectivity and a premium business address. Ideal for companies seeking visibility in Dubai's business heart.
Iconic Location
Prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road address in central Dubai.
Exhibition Centre
Located at Dubai's premier exhibition and conference venue.
Excellent Connectivity
Metro access and central location for client meetings.
Premium Address
Recognised business address for professional credibility.
Events Access
Proximity to major trade shows and business events.
Diverse Activities
Wide range of permitted business activities.
Important: What DWTC companies cannot do
- Higher cost than peripheral free zones
- Less specialised than industry-focused zones
- Limited industrial or warehousing options
DWTC Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 35,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 22,750. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in DWTC
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from DWTC's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
DWTC reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 5 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 5-14 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through DWTC
Visa Quota
With a DWTC licence you can sponsor up to 50 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 2 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through DWTC costs approximately AED 4,500 – 6,500 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.