The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), the UAE’s leading free zone and a pivotal driver of global trade through Dubai, has announced the addition of over 1,100 new companies to its business district during the first half of 2025. This surge brings DMCC’s total registered companies close to the 26,000 mark, underscoring its growing appeal as a global business destination.
One of the standout achievements comes from DMCC’s Crypto Centre, which has now surpassed 700 registered firms—an impressive 38% year-on-year increase—raising the total number of technology companies within the DMCC ecosystem to over 3,300.
This growth has been fueled by strong demand from international markets such as China, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, alongside the introduction of new licensing options and expanded business offerings across Asia. Strategic investments in specialized business ecosystems, premium real estate projects, and a bold 10-year growth plan have played a crucial role in maintaining momentum and attracting top-tier enterprises.
DMCC continues to expand key districts like Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) and Uptown Dubai, unveiling landmark projects, premium dining concepts, and luxury hospitality venues that reflect the ambitions of its international business community.
Technology Ecosystem on the Rise
The first half of 2025 saw significant milestones for DMCC’s innovation-focused sectors. The Crypto Centre welcomed leading global names such as Bitcoin.com and Animoca, both of which opened their first regional offices there. The Gaming Centre expanded to over 140 companies, while the Artificial Intelligence Centre—launched just last September—grew to over 110 AI-focused firms. Combined, these three hubs now host nearly 1,000 companies, reinforcing DMCC’s position as a world-class destination for Web3, blockchain, and frontier technologies.
In response to rising interest, DMCC partnered with R8 Development to launch the 17-storey Crypto Tower in JLT, featuring premium office space, blockchain incubators, AI innovation labs, a gold bullion store, and secure storage facilities. DMCC also announced “Quantum,” a new ecosystem aimed at accelerating advancements in quantum computing and cementing Dubai’s role as a global gateway for this next-generation industry.
Commodities Sector Achievements
DMCC strengthened Dubai’s position in global commodities trading, with the Dubai Diamond Exchange hosting over 1,350 member companies and marking a historic visit by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The UAE’s diamond trade has surpassed one billion carats over the past five years, reaffirming Dubai’s status as the world’s diamond capital.
In February, DMCC hosted its first specialty coffee auction during the World of Coffee exhibition, achieving record-breaking prices, including $10,020 per kilogram for rare beans from Panama’s Finca Sophia farm. Additionally, a partnership with Aqua Index introduced the world’s first water-backed digital token, paving the way for sustainable innovation in the global water trade.
Expanding Global Reach
DMCC saw notable growth from key markets: UK company registrations rose over 23% year-on-year to nearly 2,200; Turkish firms increased by 22% to around 700; and Chinese companies grew by 10% to approximately 1,000. Strategic agreements with Beijing’s Daxing District and Chaoyang District aim to further strengthen ties with China.
To enhance international accessibility, DMCC launched new license categories for Special Purpose Companies and Holding Companies, attracting family offices, investment firms, and multinationals. The centre also appointed Huxford as its international sales partner in Singapore, expanding its footprint in Southeast Asia.
Urban Development and Lifestyle Expansion
Ongoing development in Uptown Dubai includes two premium-grade office towers offering 62,000 sqm of luxury workspace, directly connected to Uptown Plaza. Residential expansion is also underway with Mercer House, twin luxury towers featuring wellness amenities and Dubai’s first private beach club. JLT saw the launch of the 38-storey W Residences by Marriott International, part of 19 major projects initiated in DMCC’s districts over the past two years.
Carrying Forward 2024’s Momentum
These strong half-year results follow a record-breaking 2024, when DMCC welcomed 2,048 new companies and launched its Sustainability Hub initiative. With an expanding corporate base, strategic global partnerships, and ambitious urban projects, DMCC is entering the second half of 2025 with a focus on high-growth technology sectors, sustainable trade, and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global commercial crossroads.
