What documents does a Lebanese national need to start a import export business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Lebanon, attested documents via Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your import export venture.

How long does it take for a Lebanese citizen to set up a import export 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Import Export 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.

Is Dubai Multi Commodities Centre good for import export 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.

Can I get a residence visa with my Import Export licence from DMCC?

Yes, your import export licence from DMCC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 3 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,200.

How long does it take to get a Import Export licence in DMCC?

The typical processing time for a import export licence at DMCC is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

What business activities can I include on my DMCC licence?

Your DMCC licence can include import export as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Import Export in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Lebanese nationals

Free ZoneCommercial

Import Export in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Import Export

Setting up an Import Export business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre as a Lebanese citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Lebanon-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Lebanese business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DMCC has been streamlined significantly, with most commercial licences processed within 3 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 15,300, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your import export business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why DMCC for Import Export?

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for commercial businesses, and for good reason.

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

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

For Lebanese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your import export business in DMCC.

Banking for Lebanese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your import export company in DMCC: Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles. Many have established successful businesses across various sectors. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Lebanese business structures.

Document Attestation for Lebanese Nationals

Document attestation for Lebanese nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Lebanon, (2) Attestation by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to import export businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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 import export business plan and the best DMCC licence options for Lebanese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Lebanon through Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the import export 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. Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles.

Start Operations

Your import export 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 Lebanese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Import Export in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750