What documents does a Canadian national need to start a it consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Canada, attested documents via Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication, and a business plan for your it consultancy venture.

How long does it take for a Canadian citizen to set up a it consultancy 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.

How long does it take to get a IT Consultancy licence in DMCC?

The typical processing time for a it consultancy 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.

How much does it cost to set up an IT Consultancy business in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre?

The total setup cost for an IT Consultancy business in DMCC starts from approximately AED 15,300 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,200 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What documents do I need to set up an IT Consultancy 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. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can I get a residence visa with my IT Consultancy licence from DMCC?

Yes, your it consultancy 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.

What business activities can I include on my DMCC licence?

Your DMCC licence can include it consultancy 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.

IT Consultancy in Dubai Multi Commodities Centre for Canadian nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

IT Consultancy in DMCC

Starting From

AED 15,300

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About IT Consultancy

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

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your IT Consultancy 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 it consultancy 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 IT Consultancy?

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

The jurisdiction offers 100% foreign ownership, which is particularly valuable for it consultancy 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 it consultancy professionals. Furthermore, world's leading free zone positions your it consultancy 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 it consultancy 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 it consultancy 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 it consultancy), 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

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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 it consultancy business plan and the best DMCC licence options for Canadian nationals.

Document Preparation

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

Licence Application

Submit the it consultancy 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. Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your it consultancy 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.

IT Consultancy 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