June 2026 update: The 18-month transition window closes July 2026. Existing DMCC companies should now initiate the suffix update with DMCC and prepare updated documentation for banks, contracts, and counterparties. Both suffixes remain valid until the deadline.

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has announced an important regulatory update affecting all newly registered companies.
Starting 02 January 2025, all new companies established in DMCC will use the suffix “FZCO” instead of “DMCC.” For branch entities, the new suffix will be “FZ Branch.”

This administrative change aligns DMCC with naming conventions used across other UAE free zones and strengthens structural consistency across company licensing frameworks.

DMCC Introduces New “FZCO” Suffix for Companies
DMCC Introduces New “FZCO” Suffix for Companies

What Has Changed?

Old Format:

  • COMPANY NAME DMCC

New Format (effective immediately):

  • COMPANY NAME FZCO
  • COMPANY NAME FZ Branch (for branches)

Reason for the change:

To unify DMCC’s corporate naming standards with other free zones in the UAE and streamline regulatory classification across jurisdictions.

Key Details for Existing DMCC Companies

DMCC has established a smooth transition structure:

✔ Existing companies (registered before 02 January 2025) are NOT required to change immediately

The 18-month transition window closes July 2026. Existing companies should now initiate the suffix update with DMCC and prepare their documentation list.

✔ 18-month transition period

Companies using either suffix “DMCC” or “FZCO” will be considered valid during the transition window.

✔ Suffix change is free of cost

DMCC will not charge any administrative fees to update your company name suffix.

✔ Suffix Change Certificate will be issued

DMCC will provide each company with a formal certificate confirming the new suffix.

✔ Detailed instructions coming soon

DMCC has issued guidance for completing the suffix update. Contact DMCC directly or through your licence agent to initiate the process before the July 2026 deadline.

What DMCC Members Should Expect

Companies can expect the following process:

1. Official Notification

DMCC will contact each member company with instructions and timelines.

2. Suffix Change Certificate

Issued automatically once the update is completed.

3. No Immediate Action Required

Companies should initiate the suffix update process before the July 2026 deadline. Both suffixes remain valid during the transition window.

Why This Change Matters (Strategic Context)

This update aligns DMCC with other leading UAE free zones including:

  • RAKEZ FZCO
  • Meydan FZC
  • Sharjah Publishing City FZCO
  • SAIF Zone FZC

Benefits include:

✔ More consistent cross-jurisdiction business classification
✔ Easier banking and compliance alignment
✔ Clearer company type identification for global investors
✔ Unified free zone regulations across the UAE

For Affinitas FZCO clients managing multi-jurisdictional structures, this alignment simplifies legal review, documentation, and cross-zone coordination.

FAQs

Do existing DMCC companies need to change their name now?

No. You can continue using the DMCC suffix during the 18-month transition period.

Is the suffix change mandatory?

Yes, eventually all companies will shift from “DMCC” to “FZCO,” but not immediately.

Is there a cost for the suffix change?

No. DMCC has confirmed the change is free of charge.

Will my legal documents remain valid?

Yes. Both suffixes are recognized during the transition period.

Will my bank require new documents?

Most banks will accept both suffixes during the transition. When DMCC issues your Suffix Change Certificate, banks may request updated documents.

What Should Companies Do Now? (Next Steps)

1. Wait for DMCC’s official instructions

No action is required until DMCC publishes the full process.

2. Prepare internal documentation lists

You may need to update:

  • trade license
  • company letterheads
  • contracts
  • agreements
  • bank KYC forms (eventually)

3. Consult your business advisory team

Affinitas FZCO can manage the suffix change on your behalf once the process opens.

How Affinitas FZCO Supports You

We provide:

To initiate the suffix change or update your corporate documentation, contact Affinitas FZCO at +971 4 576 2903 or via the contact page.