Overview
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone is located in the heart of Dubai along Sheikh Zayed Road, adjacent to the iconic Dubai World Trade Centre complex. Established to support businesses in the events, exhibitions, hospitality, and professional services sectors, the DWTC Free Zone provides a prestigious central Dubai address with strong connectivity to major business districts.
License Types
DWTC offers commercial licenses for general and specialised trading, professional licenses for consultancy and service firms, industrial licenses for light manufacturing and assembly, and dual licenses that permit both free zone and mainland activity. The zone also provides event-specific permits for companies in the exhibitions and conference industry.
Costs
License packages at DWTC start at approximately AED 15,000 for a basic professional license. Commercial and dual license packages range higher depending on activity scope and office requirements. Office space within the DWTC complex is available in configurations from hot desks to full offices, with rates varying by size and floor level. Visa allocations are included or available at additional cost.
Setup Process
Applicants begin by selecting their license type and business activities through the DWTC portal. The process involves trade name reservation, document submission (passport copies, application forms, and supporting business documentation), followed by license issuance upon approval. Typical processing time ranges from five to seven business days.
Benefits
DWTC Free Zone offers 100 percent foreign ownership, zero percent corporate and personal income tax for qualifying activities, full capital and profit repatriation, and a prime central Dubai location. The free zone benefits from direct proximity to the Dubai Metro (World Trade Centre station) and major road networks.
Location and Infrastructure
The free zone occupies a strategic position on Sheikh Zayed Road between Downtown Dubai and the Dubai International Financial Centre. The DWTC complex includes exhibition halls, conference facilities, office towers, hotels, and retail outlets. Businesses benefit from the foot traffic and networking generated by over 100 annual events hosted at the venue.
Key Sectors
DWTC supports companies in events management, exhibitions, hospitality, food and beverage, professional consulting, technology services, media, and general trading. The zone is a natural fit for businesses that interface with the trade show and conference industry.
Ideal Setup Profile
DWTC Free Zone is best suited for events companies, hospitality firms, professional service providers, and businesses that benefit from a prestigious central Dubai address with direct access to one of the region’s premier exhibition and conference venues.