Fashion Design in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Canadian nationals
Free ZoneProfessional

Fashion Design in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Fashion Design

The UAE continues to attract Canadian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DMCC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for fashion design operations. Growing Canadian business community (~40,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Dubai Multi Commodities Centre gives your Fashion Design business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. The Fashion Design activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fashion design businesses in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why DMCC for Fashion Design?

Choosing DMCC for your fashion design business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers 100% foreign ownership, which is particularly valuable for fashion design 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 fashion design professionals. Furthermore, world's leading free zone positions your fashion design 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 professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your fashion design licence is issued by DMCC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Canadian Business Owners

Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. For your fashion design business in DMCC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Canadian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Canada-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for fashion design), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DMCC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Passport-sized photographs with white background
7Completed application form for trade licence
8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee15,300
Visa Package (per visa)5,200
Flexi Desk6,300
Shared Office12,000
Private Office30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 26,800

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your fashion design business plan and the best DMCC licence options for Canadian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the fashion design licence application to DMCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your fashion design 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 Canadian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your fashion design in DMCC? Our team is here to help.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

Quick Facts

JurisdictionDMCC
TypeFree Zone
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 15,300
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota3
Activity Code74120

Official Source

www.dmcc.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Fashion Design?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your fashion design in DMCC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.