DMCC crypto licence cost.
The DMCC Crypto Centre licenses proprietary trading, marketing, distribution and advisory crypto activities. Regulated activities (exchange, custody, brokerage) need a VARA licence on top. Here is what the DMCC crypto licence costs in 2026.
What you actually pay, line by line.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| DMCC Crypto Centre trade licence | AED 20,200 (USD 5,500) | Annual; proprietary/marketing/advisory |
| DMCC registration (one-off) | AED 10,010 (USD 2,725) | Year 1 |
| Flexi-desk | AED 15,050 (USD 4,100) | Mandatory; annual |
| ArxSetup professional fee | AED 14,690 (USD 4,000) | |
| VARA licence (if regulated activity) | USD 500,000 – 2,000,000 | Exchange/custody/brokerage — separate |
| Year-1 all-in (non-regulated crypto) | from AED 62,080 (USD 16,905) | Without VARA |
Government fees are pass-through and may be revised by the regulator without notice. AED/USD conversions are indicative. ArxSetup professional fees are fixed and quoted in writing before engagement. Figures current May 2026.
Reviewed by qualified counsel within ArxSetup and our affiliated practices, Neo Legal (UAE) and Cornwalls (Australia). Figures verified against primary regulator sources. Last reviewed: May 2026. Est. 2021 · DDA Licence 107229 · direct registry filing partner. How we review →
Common questions.
The questions clients ask most before committing. Current to 2026, reviewed by counsel.
How much is a DMCC crypto licence in 2026?
From AED 62,080 (USD 16,905) all-in for a non-regulated crypto licence (proprietary trading, marketing, distribution, advisory). Regulated activities (exchange, custody, brokerage) require a VARA licence on top, from USD 500,000–2,000,000 year-one all-in.
What crypto activities can a DMCC licence cover without VARA?
Proprietary trading, crypto marketing and distribution, and consulting/advisory. Operating an exchange, holding client assets (custody), or brokering for third parties requires a VARA VASP licence.
Can I hold a DMCC company and a VARA licence together?
Yes — the standard structure is a DMCC (or DWTC/mainland) commercial entity as the licensed vehicle, with the VARA VASP licence layered on top for the regulated activity.
Does the DMCC Crypto Centre give banking access?
DMCC's banking acceptance is the strongest among UAE free zones, but crypto-nexus accounts still face enhanced due diligence. ArxSetup pre-screens the structure before introducing banks.
How long does a DMCC crypto licence take?
5–7 working days for the DMCC licence itself. A VARA licence on top takes 4–12 months across the two-stage application.
This page is general information, reviewed May 2026 — not legal, tax or immigration advice, and it does not create a client relationship. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided only under a signed engagement letter. Government fees are set by the relevant authority and may change without notice. Where local registered agents are required, we coordinate with licensed partners and disclose their role in writing.