Holding Company in DMC
Starting From
AED 15,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
5 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Holding Company
As an Iranian national looking to establish a Holding Company business in Dubai Media City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Iran has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Iranian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.
As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Holding Company business will benefit from middle east media hub and home to international media houses. The DMC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your holding company setup in DMC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why DMC for Holding Company?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Media City continues to attract holding company entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers middle east media hub, which is particularly valuable for holding company operations. Additionally, home to international media houses 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Full media production ecosystem further enhances the appeal of DMC for holding company professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your holding company business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DMC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established financial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
For Iranian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Iranian business community.
Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals
Banking for Iranian Business Owners
Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals
Requirements & Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 15,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 5,000 |
| Flexi Desk | 12,000 |
| Shared Office | 20,000 |
| Private Office | 45,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 32,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Consultation
Free consultation with IBA to discuss your holding company business plan and the best DMC licence options for Iranian nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the holding company licence application to DMC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.
Trade Licence Issued
Receive your official DMC trade licence within 5–8 business days.
Visa Processing
Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.
Start Operations
Your holding company business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.
Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. DMC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Holding Company in Other Jurisdictions
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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.
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