DMCC Audit Requirements

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre

Comprehensive guide to audit and compliance requirements for DMCC-registered companies. Expert audit services from DMCC-approved auditors.

About DMCC Audit Requirements

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is one of the UAE's largest and most prestigious free zones, home to over 21,000 companies. DMCC has specific audit and compliance requirements that differ from mainland Dubai regulations. For [DMCC-approved audit services](/en/services/external-audit), partnering with experienced auditors ensures seamless compliance.

Understanding DMCC's audit requirements is critical for maintaining good standing, avoiding penalties, and ensuring smooth license renewal. The requirements vary based on your company's annual revenue and business activity. Compare [mainland vs free zone audit requirements](/en/compare/mainland-vs-freezone-audit) to understand the differences.

This guide covers everything you need to know about DMCC audit obligations, filing deadlines, approved auditors, and compliance best practices. As one of the [DMCC-approved top audit firms](/en/top-10-audit-firms-dubai), we help businesses navigate these requirements efficiently.

When is Audit Mandatory?

Mandatory
Yes
Threshold
Revenue exceeding AED 1,000,000
Deadline
6 months from financial year-end

Key Requirements:

  • Annual revenue exceeding AED 1 million requires full statutory audit
  • Below AED 1M threshold: Management accounts acceptable
  • Audit must be conducted by DMCC-approved auditor
  • Financial statements must comply with IFRS
  • Audited statements filed via DMCC portal
  • Annual Return submission mandatory for all companies

Key Features

Revenue Threshold

Audit mandatory only if annual revenue exceeds AED 1,000,000. Below this, management accounts suffice.

Extended Deadline

6 months from year-end to file audited statements - longer than mainland (90-150 days).

Approved Auditors

Must use DMCC-approved auditors. Not all UAE auditors are approved by DMCC.

IFRS Compliance

Financial statements must comply with International Financial Reporting Standards.

Online Filing

All submissions made through DMCC online portal - streamlined digital process.

Flexible Accounting

Companies below threshold can submit simple management accounts instead of full audit.

Filing Process

1

Determine Audit Requirement

Calculate annual revenue to determine if you exceed AED 1M threshold. If yes, audit mandatory. If no, management accounts acceptable.

Timeline: Month 1 after year-end
2

Engage DMCC-Approved Auditor

Select auditor from DMCC approved list. Verify current approval status. Negotiate fees and timeline.

Timeline: Month 2 after year-end
3

Prepare Financial Records

Organize trial balance, general ledger, supporting documents. Prepare schedule of fixed assets, receivables, payables.

Timeline: Month 2-3
4

Audit Fieldwork

Auditor conducts testing, verifies balances, assesses controls. Respond to auditor queries and provide requested documents.

Timeline: Month 3-4
5

Review Draft Audit Report

Review draft financial statements and audit report. Discuss any findings or adjustments with auditor. Finalize reports.

Timeline: Month 5
6

File with DMCC

Submit audited financial statements via DMCC portal. Complete Annual Return. Pay any outstanding DMCC fees.

Timeline: Before 6-month deadline

Required Documents

📄Audited Financial Statements (if revenue > AED 1M) or Management Accounts
📄Independent Auditor's Report
📄Trade License copy
📄Memorandum and Articles of Association
📄Shareholder register
📄Board resolution approving financial statements
📄Lease agreement copy
📄Bank statements for all accounts
📄Previous year's filed accounts
📄Annual Return form (completed online)

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violation TypePenalty
Late filing of accountsAED 5,000 - 20,000 depending on delay
Non-submission of Annual ReturnAED 1,000 initially, escalating monthly
Incomplete or incorrect filingAED 2,000 - 10,000
License renewal blockedBusiness disruption, visa issues

Scroll horizontally to see all columns

Benefits of DMCC

Clear revenue threshold (AED 1M) - predictable requirement
Extended 6-month deadline - more time than mainland
Management accounts option for smaller companies
Streamlined online filing process
Well-established approved auditor network
JLT location - convenient access to audit firms
Multi-currency trading advantages
Zero corporate tax (with conditions)
100% foreign ownership
No import/export duties

Common Industries in DMCC

Commodities TradingPrecious Metals and DiamondsTechnology and IT ServicesProfessional ServicesImport/ExportManufacturing RepresentativesConsultancyMarketing and MediaFinancial ServicesBusiness Services

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