Dubai has cemented its position as the leading commercial hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. For entrepreneurs and businesses looking to capitalize on international trade opportunities, understanding how to get general trading license in Dubai is crucial. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining a general trading license Dubai, including costs, timelines, and legal requirements for 2026.
What Is a General Trading License in Dubai?
A general trading license Dubai is a commercial license that permits businesses to trade in a wide range of products across multiple categories without requiring separate approvals for each product line. This flexibility makes it the most sought-after license type for import-export businesses operating in the UAE.
Unlike specialized trading licenses that restrict you to specific product categories, a general trading license UAE allows you to deal in electronics, textiles, construction materials, food products, automotive parts, and numerous other goods. This versatility enables businesses to adapt quickly to market demands and diversify their product portfolios without bureaucratic hurdles.
Activities Allowed Under General Trading License
When you obtain a general trading license in Dubai, you can legally engage in:
- Import and export of general merchandise
- Wholesale and retail trading operations
- Distribution of goods across UAE and internationally
- E-commerce and online trading activities
- Supply chain management and logistics coordination
- Trading in multiple product categories simultaneously
Restricted Activities
While the general trading license UAE offers broad trading permissions, certain activities require additional approvals or specialized licenses:
- Pharmaceutical and medical equipment trading
- Firearms and ammunition
- Precious metals and gemstones (require separate permits)
- Chemicals and hazardous materials
- Food products may require health department approvals
- Alcohol and tobacco products
Understanding what is general trading license in Dubai means recognizing both its expansive scope and necessary limitations to ensure full compliance with UAE regulations.
Mainland vs Free Zone: Choosing Your Jurisdiction
One of the most critical decisions when learning how to get general trading license in Dubai is selecting between mainland and free zone jurisdictions. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on your business model.
Dubai Mainland General Trading License
A Dubai mainland general trading license allows you to:
- Trade directly with UAE local markets
- Conduct business anywhere in the UAE without restrictions
- Bid on government contracts and tenders
- Establish physical retail locations
- Benefit from UAE’s extensive treaty network
Mainland Requirements:
- Local service agent (UAE national) required for certain business structures
- Physical office space in approved locations
- Higher initial setup costs compared to free zones
Dubai Free Zone General Trading License
A Dubai free zone general trading license provides:
- 100% foreign ownership without local sponsor requirements
- Complete tax exemptions on corporate and personal income
- Full repatriation of profits and capital
- Streamlined business setup procedures
- Lower initial costs and flexible office options
Free Zone Limitations:
- Direct trading within UAE mainland requires distribution partner
- Business operations restricted to free zone and international markets
- Cannot bid on certain mainland government contracts
Popular Free Zones for Trading:
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – ideal for logistics and shipping
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) – perfect for commodity trading
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) – excellent for import-export operations
- Dubai South Free Zone – emerging logistics hub
Dubai General Trading License Cost: Complete Breakdown
Understanding how much is general trading license in Dubai requires examining all associated costs. The Dubai general trading license cost varies significantly between mainland and free zone jurisdictions.
Mainland General Trading License Cost
| Cost Component | Price Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade name registration | 600 – 1,000 |
| Initial approval | 1,000 – 2,000 |
| License fee | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Office space (annual) | 25,000 – 100,000+ |
| MOA notarization | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Chamber of Commerce | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Import-export code | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Immigration card | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Investor visa (per person) | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 55,000 – 150,000+ |
Free Zone General Trading License Cost
| Cost Component | Price Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| License fee | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Flexi-desk/office (annual) | 8,000 – 50,000 |
| Registration fees | 2,000 – 5,000 |
| Visa allocation | 3,000 – 6,000 |
| Investor visa (per person) | 4,000 – 7,000 |
| Immigration services | 2,000 – 4,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 29,000 – 92,000 |
The cost of general trading license in UAE also includes annual renewal fees ranging from AED 15,000 to 30,000 depending on your jurisdiction and business size. These figures represent 2026 pricing and may vary based on specific free zone regulations and chosen business structure.
How to Get General Trading License in Dubai: Step-by-Step Process
Understanding the general trading license application process Dubai ensures smooth business establishment. Here’s your complete roadmap for how to open a trading company in Dubai.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Jurisdiction
Decide between mainland and free zone based on your target market, budget, and business requirements. Consider whether you need direct access to UAE local markets or prefer the cost advantages and 100% ownership of free zones.
Step 2: Select Legal Structure
Common structures for general trading license Dubai include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – most popular for mainland
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZC) – multiple shareholders
- Branch of foreign company
Step 3: Register Your Trade Name
Submit trade name applications to the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland or relevant free zone authority. Ensure your chosen name complies with UAE naming conventions and doesn’t conflict with existing businesses.
Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval
Submit your business plan and preliminary documents for initial approval. This confirms your proposed activities are permissible under your chosen license category.
Step 5: Prepare Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents required for general trading license:
- Passport copies of all shareholders (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa and Emirates ID copies (if UAE resident)
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of residential address
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in UAE
- Business activity details
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Share capital details
- Bank reference letters (for free zones)
Step 6: Lease Office Space
For Dubai mainland general trading license, secure approved commercial office space and obtain EJARI registration (tenancy contract registration). Free zones offer flexible options including flexi-desks, shared offices, or dedicated spaces.
Step 7: Submit License Application
Complete the formal application through DED for mainland or relevant free zone authority. Pay required government fees and processing charges.
Step 8: Obtain Import-Export Code
Apply for customs registration and import-export code through Dubai Customs or Federal Customs Authority. This enables you to legally import and export goods through UAE ports.
Step 9: Final License Issuance
After document verification and approval, receive your official general trading license UAE. This typically takes 5-15 business days depending on jurisdiction.
Step 10: Apply for Visas and Bank Account
Submit visa applications for owners and employees. Open corporate bank account with required documentation including license, MOA, passport copies, and business plan.
Dubai General Trading License Requirements
Meeting the Dubai general trading license requirements ensures compliance and smooth operations. Key requirements include:
Foreign Investor Eligibility:
- No restrictions on nationality for free zone licenses
- Mainland licenses may require local service agent
- Minimum age requirement: 21 years
- No criminal record
Capital Requirements:
- No minimum capital requirement for most free zones
- Mainland LLC typically requires AED 300,000 stated capital (not deposited)
- Share capital documented in MOA
Compliance Obligations:
- Annual license renewal
- VAT registration if turnover exceeds AED 375,000
- Customs registration for import-export activities
- Maintaining valid office lease throughout license validity
- Proper accounting and bookkeeping
- Economic substance regulations compliance
Activity Restrictions:
- Cannot conduct activities outside approved license scope
- Certain product categories require additional permits
- Free zone companies face limitations on mainland trading
Timeline: How Long Does the Process Take?
The timeframe for completing the general trading license application process Dubai varies by jurisdiction:
Mainland Timeline:
- Trade name approval: 1-2 days
- Initial approval: 3-5 days
- Document preparation: 3-7 days
- License issuance: 5-10 days
- Visa processing: 7-15 days
- Total Duration: 3-6 weeks
Free Zone Timeline:
- Application submission: 1-2 days
- Approval and license: 3-7 days
- Office setup: 1-3 days
- Visa processing: 5-10 days
- Total Duration: 2-4 weeks
Many free zones offer expedited processing for additional fees, reducing setup time to as little as 5 business days.
Benefits of General Trading License in Dubai
Choosing a general trading license Dubai provides numerous strategic advantages:
Multi-Product Trading Flexibility: Trade across multiple product categories without separate license applications. Quickly pivot to trending products and market opportunities without bureaucratic delays.
Import-Export Advantages: Direct access to Dubai’s world-class ports and logistics infrastructure. Benefit from UAE’s strategic location connecting major markets across three continents.
100% Foreign Ownership: Free zones allow complete foreign ownership without mandatory local partners, ensuring full control over business decisions and profits.
Tax Benefits: Zero corporate tax (mainland companies now subject to 9% on profits exceeding AED 375,000), no personal income tax, and full profit repatriation. The benefits of general trading license in Dubai include significant cost savings compared to many international jurisdictions.
Global Market Access: Leverage UAE’s extensive network of double taxation treaties and free trade agreements covering over 100 countries.
Business Expansion Opportunities: Easily add new trading activities, expand product lines, and scale operations without complex regulatory approvals.
World-Class Infrastructure: Access modern logistics facilities, cutting-edge technology, and efficient customs procedures that facilitate rapid business growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is general trading license in Dubai?
The cost of general trading license in UAE ranges from AED 29,000 to 150,000+ depending on jurisdiction, office requirements, and number of visas. Free zone licenses typically cost AED 29,000-92,000 while mainland licenses range from AED 55,000-150,000+ for complete setup including office space and visas.
Can foreigners get a general trading license in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can obtain a general trading license Dubai with 100% ownership in free zones. Mainland licenses may require a local service agent depending on business structure, but foreigners retain complete operational control and profit rights.
What products can I trade with a general trading license?
A general trading license UAE allows trading in most product categories including electronics, textiles, furniture, building materials, automotive parts, general merchandise, and more. Restricted items like pharmaceuticals, precious metals, and hazardous materials require specialized permits.
Do I need a physical office for general trading license?
Yes, all Dubai general trading license requirements include maintaining valid office space. Free zones offer flexible options like flexi-desks starting from AED 8,000 annually, while mainland requires traditional office space.
How long is a general trading license valid?
A general trading license Dubai is valid for one year and requires annual renewal. Renewal typically costs AED 15,000-30,000 depending on jurisdiction and must be completed before expiry to avoid penalties.
Is VAT registration mandatory for trading companies?
VAT registration becomes mandatory when your annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. However, voluntary registration is available for businesses below this threshold. Understanding what is general trading license in Dubai includes recognizing these compliance obligations.
Can I operate e-commerce with a general trading license?
Yes, a general trading license UAE covers e-commerce and online trading activities. You can sell products through websites, marketplaces, and digital platforms both within UAE and internationally.
Conclusion: Start Your Trading Business in Dubai Today
Understanding how to get general trading license in Dubai opens doors to unlimited trading opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments. Whether you choose a Dubai mainland general trading license for local market access or a Dubai free zone general trading license for international operations, the process is straightforward with proper guidance.
The Dubai general trading license cost represents a strategic investment in accessing global markets, leveraging world-class infrastructure, and building a profitable trading enterprise. With clear requirements, streamlined processes, and significant tax advantages, Dubai continues attracting thousands of international traders annually.
Ready to start your trading business? Contact experienced Dubai business setup consultants who can guide you through the complete process, ensure compliance with all Dubai general trading license requirements, and help you launch operations quickly. The UAE’s commitment to business-friendly policies and strategic global position makes now the perfect time to establish your trading company in Dubai.
Don’t let complexity hold you back—professional business setup services can handle documentation, approvals, and licensing while you focus on building your trading empire. Start your journey toward becoming a successful international trader in Dubai’s thriving commercial ecosystem today.