DMCC member companies · Company names

DMCC company suffix update: what FZCO and FZ Branch mean

DMCC changed the suffix used in member-company names from 2 January 2025. Newly registered companies use FZCO, while branch registrations use FZ Branch. Existing members should check their current licence and the DMCC Member Portal for the status of their own suffix change.

Guidance for existing members Read DMCC’s announcement

Existing DMCC members

What should an existing company do?

DMCC’s original announcement described an 18-month transition for companies registered before 2 January 2025. That was a statement about the transition announced in 2025—not a standing assurance that the old suffix remains acceptable today. Check your latest licence, DMCC portal notices and any direct communication from DMCC before using the former name in a new document.

DMCC’s Suffix Change Guideline sets out a Member Portal request for an existing company that needs the updated suffix. The request is a DMCC company service, not a change made simply by editing invoices or stationery.

Check the current licence

Confirm the registered legal name and whether the entity is a company or branch. Check that the licence is active before starting the portal service.

Use the DMCC Member Portal

DMCC’s guideline identifies Company Services → Company Name Suffix Change. An authorised portal user submits the request and contact details for DMCC’s review.

Review the issued documents

After DMCC approval, obtain the updated electronic certificate and licence. Use the approved legal name when updating relevant business records.

Portal fields, supporting requirements and charges can change. Follow the current instructions shown to your company in the DMCC Member Portal.

Quick answers

Common questions about the DMCC suffix

Does FZCO apply to a DMCC branch?

No. DMCC identifies FZ Branch for branch registrations and FZCO for DMCC companies. Check the exact registered name on the entity’s licence.

Does the suffix change create a new company?

The DMCC process is described as a company-name suffix change for an existing member. For the effect on a particular contract, licence or registration, use the updated DMCC documents and check the relevant counterparty’s requirements.

Where can an existing member request the change?

DMCC’s published guideline directs members to its Member Portal under Company Services. A portal user should follow the current company-specific instructions and approval status there.

Official guidance

Check DMCC’s current instructions

This page explains the naming change and practical records to review. The DMCC Member Portal and DMCC’s published guidance govern the actual request and status for each company.

DMCC suffix announcement DMCC Suffix Change Guideline (PDF)

Need your records aligned?

SAIF can help review how the approved company name is reflected in accounting, tax and audit records. The suffix request itself is completed through DMCC’s Member Portal.