What documents does a Chinese national need to start a courier services business in the UAE?

You will need a valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in China, attested documents via Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT, and a business plan for your courier services venture.

How long does it take for a Chinese citizen to set up a courier services company in DMCC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

What are the tax implications for a Courier Services business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DMCC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What documents do I need to set up a Courier Services business in DMCC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by TRA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Courier Services company in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

Yes, DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DMCC Courier Services licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DMCC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Is Dubai Multi Commodities Centre good for courier services start-ups?

DMCC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate and income tax. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 6,300 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

Courier Services in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Chinese nationals

Free ZoneTransportRegulated Activity

Courier Services in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Courier Services

As a Chinese national looking to establish a Courier Services business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. China has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Chinese professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Courier Services business will benefit from 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate and income tax. The DMCC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,300.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your courier services setup in DMCC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DMCC for Courier Services?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Multi Commodities Centre continues to attract courier services entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers 100% foreign ownership, which is particularly valuable for courier services operations. Additionally, zero corporate and income tax ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 6,300 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic JLT location further enhances the appeal of DMCC for courier services professionals. Furthermore, world's leading free zone positions your courier services business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Chinese nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Chinese business community.

100% foreign ownership

Zero corporate and income tax

Strategic JLT location

World's leading free zone

Access to commodities market

Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals

For Chinese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your courier services business in DMCC.

Banking for Chinese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your courier services company in DMCC: Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations. Several UAE banks have dedicated Chinese business desks and Mandarin-speaking staff. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Chinese business structures.

Document Attestation for Chinese Nationals

Document attestation for Chinese nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in China, (2) Attestation by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to courier services businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Completed application form for trade licence

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from TRA

8Relevant industry experience documentation

Regulatory Note: Courier Services is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from TRA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,300
Visa Package (per visa)	5,200
Flexi Desk	6,300
Shared Office	12,000
Private Office	30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 26,800

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your courier services business plan and the best DMCC licence options for Chinese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the courier services licence application to DMCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DMCC trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.

Start Operations

Your courier services business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DMCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Chinese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Courier Services in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000