As Dubai’s first iconic skyscraper, the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) stands as a prominent global business destination. It offers an attractive platform for companies aiming to establish a stable and internationally visible presence in the region. From event management and marketing to advanced technology and security services, DWTC provides comprehensive business support.
Strategically located in the heart of Dubai, DWTC serves as a prestigious venue for major international trade exhibitions, conferences, and business events—making it the perfect location for enterprises looking to host or participate in high-impact gatherings.
The center proudly hosts global industry leaders including Shell, FedEx, General Motors, and Halliburton, reinforcing its status as a hub for world-class business operations.
Dubai World Trade Centre offers a host of strategic advantages and business-friendly incentives, making it an ideal launchpad for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow their ventures in the UAE. Key benefits include:
Situated just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, DWTC offers unparalleled accessibility across Dubai. Its central location places it close to key landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Emirates Towers, and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
DWTC stands as a world-renowned hub for high-profile international events. Hosting over 500 trade shows, exhibitions, and conventions annually, it attracts more than 3 million visitors from around the globe.
Businesses holding a DWTC Authority license or operating permit enjoy the flexibility to sub-lease office space to other Free Zone entities—offering scalable solutions for growing enterprises.
Favorable Legal & Business Environment . 00% foreign ownership. Full capital repatriation rights. No currency restrictions. No personal income tax. Low tariffs. Only 9% corporate tax (if applicable). Flexible commercial lease terms
Mainland companies can expand their operations into the DWTC Free Zone with a Business Operating Permit. These permits allow businesses to operate within the Free Zone while remaining aligned with their existing DED license activities.
There are various types of business licenses offered in DWTC:
Allows companies to carry out a broad spectrum of commercial activities, including exporting, importing, and distributing goods.
Grants companies the authority to perform licensed activities such as exporting, importing, distributing, selling, and storing permitted goods.
This license enables businesses to offer services including general and advisory consulting, onsite repairs, training, as well as HR and software implementation.
Permits companies to organize business or leisure events, conferences, incentives, meetings, exhibitions, and conferences within the jurisdiction.
This license is designed for businesses operating online platforms, enabling them to trade goods and services digitally.
Designed for offices set up by family members to manage and oversee the wealth of a single family.
Intended for offices launched by consultants for the provision of wealth management services to multiple families.
There are four types of company structures offered in DWTC:
A business entity established within a designated free zone area in Dubai, offering 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup procedures tailored to specific industry sectors.
A Free Zone Establishment is a single shareholder company within a free zone, allowing full foreign ownership and limited liability, ideal for entrepreneurs looking for sole proprietorship in Dubai’s free zones.
Offers limited liability protection to shareholders while allowing flexible management and profit sharing.
A branch office operates as an extension of a foreign parent company in Dubai, allowing it to conduct business activities similar to the parent company while benefiting from the local market presence without forming a separate legal entity.
The first step in establishing your business at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) is selecting your business activity and applying for the appropriate license. Depending on the nature of your activity, licenses are issued by various government authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED).
After receiving your license, the next step is to register your company with DWTC by submitting all the required documents. This can be done either online or by visiting the DWTC offices.
Next, choose from a range of office options at DWTC, including traditional offices, fully furnished spaces, and flexible office solutions.
Once your trade license is in hand and your office lease is signed, you can proceed with obtaining your UAE residency visa and opening a corporate bank account to handle your company’s financial transactions. Al Sultan UAE will guide you through every step of this process, ensuring compliance with Dubai’s regulations for a smooth, cost-effective, and speedy company setup.