General Trading License in Dubai: Activities, Cost, Requirements and Setup Process.
How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai: A Complete Business Setup Guide
Dubai is an important centre for international trade, wholesale sales, product sourcing and re-export. It has strong transport links and access to many markets. As a result, it attracts companies that buy and sell different types of products.
A general trading license in Dubai allows an approved company to trade in different types of goods under one commercial licence. However, the company can only trade in products covered by its approved activities and any extra rules that apply to those products.
However, getting this licence involves more than choosing a company name and paying a fee. Before applying, business owners should check which activities are allowed, where to set up, which documents are needed, and whether customs rules or extra approvals apply.
This guide explains the activities, requirements, estimated costs and steps involved in obtaining a general trading licence in Dubai.
On This Page
- What Is a General Trading License?
- Activities Covered
- General vs Specific Trading License
- Mainland vs Free Zone
- Requirements and Documents
- License Cost and Fees
- How to Get the License
- Dubai Customs Registration
- VAT and Corporate Tax
- Corporate Bank Account
- Online License Verification
- Renewal and Amendments
- Common Mistakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Is a General Trading License in Dubai?
A general trading licence is a type of commercial licence that permits a company to conduct approved trading activities involving multiple categories of goods.
Depending on the location and approved activities, a company may be allowed to import, export, distribute, sell in bulk or sell directly to customers under the same licence.
For example, a company that sells electronics, home products and clothing may be able to include these product groups on one licence. However, the licensing authority must approve the chosen combination.
A general trading licence does not give a company permission to sell every product. Some goods need extra approval. Therefore, the company must check its approved activities and the rules that apply to each product.
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism classifies general trading, import/export, wholesale and retail under commercial licensing. Businesses can refer to the official Dubai DET business licensing information for licensing guidance.
2. What Activities Are Covered Under a General Trading License?
A general trading licence can cover several types of business activity. However, the licensing authority must approve the activities first.
For example, common trading activities include:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Import | Bringing approved products into the UAE from international suppliers. |
| Export | Selling and shipping products from the UAE to overseas markets. |
| Re-export | Importing goods and subsequently shipping them to another country. |
| Wholesale trading | Supplying products in bulk to retailers, distributors and businesses. |
| Retail trading | Selling approved products directly to consumers. |
| Distribution | Supplying products through authorised distribution channels. |
| Product trading | Trading in multiple approved product categories. |
Product Categories
Businesses may be able to trade in the product groups below. The final list depends on the approved activity codes and any product rules:
- Electronics and mobile accessories
- Clothing, footwear and textiles
- Furniture and home furnishings
- Household products and kitchenware
- Toys, stationery and general consumer goods
- Packaged food products
- Perfumes and cosmetics
- Industrial and commercial supplies
Restricted Products and Additional Approvals
Some products need extra licences, import permits, registration or checks before they can be sold or moved across borders.
Examples include:
- Pharmaceuticals and medical products
- Chemicals and hazardous materials
- Food products subject to food safety regulations
- Tobacco and alcohol
- Firearms and controlled equipment
- Certain agricultural and animal products
Some products need approval from a UAE regulator before they can be imported, stored, advertised or sold. The authority depends on the product. For example, food products may require food-control approvals, while medicines, medical products and chemicals follow separate regulatory controls.
Dubai Customs also identifies restricted goods that require approval from the competent authority before clearance. See the Dubai Customs guidance on restricted goods and customs clearance.
YouFirst ME can help you assess the proposed trading activities and identify the approvals to include in your setup plan. Discuss your product list with our business setup team.
3. General Trading License vs Specific Trading License
The main difference is how many types of products and activities the licence can cover.
| Comparison | General Trading Licence | Specific Trading Licence |
|---|---|---|
| Product scope | Multiple approved product categories | Specific approved products or categories |
| Business flexibility | Broader, subject to activity approvals | More specialised |
| Activity selection | May include multiple activity groups | Usually focused on selected activities |
| Suitable for | Businesses handling different product categories | Businesses focused on a particular product or trade |
| Additional approvals | Required for regulated products where applicable | Required for regulated products where applicable |
A general trading licence may suit businesses planning to expand their product range. A specific trading licence may be more appropriate for a company operating within a clearly defined product category.
The correct choice depends on the actual business model, product list and licensing authority’s activity classification.
4. Mainland vs Free Zone General Trading License
One of the most important decisions is choosing between a Dubai Mainland licence and a Free Zone licence.
Both options can support trading businesses. However, they have different rules, market access and costs.
| Factor | Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Licensing authority | Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism or relevant authority | Selected Free Zone authority |
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership is permitted for most commercial activities, subject to exceptions | Generally allows 100% foreign ownership |
| UAE market access | Can operate in the mainland market within its licensed scope | Mainland sales are subject to applicable licensing, customs and distribution requirements |
| International trading | Permitted within the approved licence scope | Commonly used for international trading and re-export |
| Office requirements | Premises and Ejari requirements depend on the activity and legal structure | Workspace options depend on the Free Zone |
| Cost | Depends on activity, legal form, premises and approvals | Depends on package, activity groups, visas and additional services |
| Best suited for | Businesses requiring direct mainland operations | Businesses prioritising Free Zone operations and international trade |
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choose Mainland if your business model requires direct operations in Dubai’s mainland market, local distribution or a physical commercial presence.
Consider a Free Zone if your primary operations involve international suppliers, overseas customers, re-export or a Free Zone-based business structure.
A Free Zone company should not assume that its licence automatically permits unrestricted mainland sales. The UAE Government explains that Free Zone businesses operating in the mainland must follow the applicable licensing and distribution rules. The correct route depends on the goods, the activity, the customs position and the relevant authority. Read the UAE Government’s Free Zone operating rules before deciding how the company will serve mainland customers.
YouFirst ME can assess whether a Mainland or Free Zone structure is more suitable for your target customers and distribution model. Discuss your setup with our team.
For further information about mainland setup options, see our Dubai Mainland business setup guide.
5. General Trading License in Dubai Requirements
The requirements depend on where you set up, the company type, its owners and the activities you choose.
To apply, you will usually need the following:
- Selection of approved trading activities
- Proposed company or trade name
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Passport-size photographs, where requested
- Emirates ID and UAE residence visa copies, where applicable
- Shareholder and authorised signatory details
- Initial approval from the relevant authority
- Office, flexi-desk or lease documentation, as applicable
- Additional regulatory approvals for controlled products
Documents for Individual Shareholders
Individual shareholders may be asked to provide:
- Valid passport copy.
- Recent photograph.
- UAE residence visa copy, if applicable.
- Emirates ID copy, if applicable.
- Contact and residential details.
- Additional declarations or NOCs, if required by the authority.
Documents for Corporate Shareholders
When an existing company becomes a shareholder, additional corporate documents may be required:
- Certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Certificate of good standing or incumbency, where applicable
- Board resolution approving the investment
- Shareholder or director details
- Power of attorney, where applicable
- Attestation and legalisation of documents, if required
For a Dubai Mainland application, the UAE Government lists the initial approval receipt and previously submitted documents, the registered lease contract, the Memorandum of Association where required by the legal form, and approvals from other government entities where applicable. Additional documents can apply to specific legal structures and ownership arrangements.
For Free Zone companies, the issuing authority sets the document checklist. It commonly includes shareholder identification, application forms and, where a corporate shareholder is involved, the parent company’s incorporation and authorisation documents.
Read the UAE Government’s official Mainland setup steps and document requirements.
YouFirst ME can prepare and coordinate your company documentation, application and licensing formalities. Explore our corporate services or request setup assistance.
6. General Trading License in Dubai Price and Fees
The general trading license in Dubai price depends on the location, chosen activities, company type, number of visas, office space and any extra approvals.
Therefore, there is no single official price for every general trading company.
Indicative Setup Cost
The figures below are rough budget estimates. They are not fixed government fees or guaranteed quotes.
| Setup option | Indicative licence and initial setup budget |
|---|---|
| Free Zone | AED 12,000–25,000+ |
| Mainland | AED 18,000–30,000+ |
However, the final amount may be higher depending on what your business needs.
Additional Expenses to Consider
| Cost component | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Licence issuance | Commercial licence charges |
| Company registration | Registration and administrative fees |
| Activity fees | Additional activity or activity-group charges |
| Visa expenses | Visa allocation and processing, where required |
| Establishment card | Immigration-related company registration, where applicable |
| Office or workspace | Flexi-desk, shared office, office lease or warehouse |
| Customs registration | Registration for relevant customs services |
| External approvals | Product-specific regulatory permissions |
| Document services | Translation, attestation and legalisation |
| Professional services | Business setup and compliance assistance |
For example, some Free Zone providers advertise general trading packages from around AED 12,500. However, these prices apply to specific providers and may cover only selected activities and workspace options. Visa processing, extra activity groups and other services may cost more.
Calculate the first-year cost by adding the licence and activity fees, registration charges, office or warehouse, visa and immigration costs, external approvals, customs registration where needed, and professional support. Also include the expected renewal and workspace costs so that the budget reflects the full operating year.
For a Dubai Mainland setup, use the Dubai DET business licensing services for official licensing information. Free Zone package prices and inclusions are set by each individual Free Zone.
YouFirst ME can prepare a setup estimate based on your activities, visa needs and workspace requirements. Request your business setup cost assessment.
7. How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai
The application process typically involves the following stages. Dubai’s official process covers activity selection, legal structure, trade name, initial approval, premises, additional approvals and licence issuance. You can review the Invest in Dubai step-by-step licensing process alongside the steps below.
Select Your Business Activities
Identify the products you intend to trade and the commercial operations you plan to conduct.
Determine whether you require import, export, wholesale, retail, distribution or other approved activities. Check whether your products require additional regulatory approvals.
Choose Mainland or Free Zone
Compare both jurisdictions based on your target customers, operational requirements, international trading model, office needs and budget.
The selected jurisdiction determines the licensing authority and the applicable application process.
Select a Legal Structure and Trade Name
Choose the appropriate legal form based on ownership, shareholders and business requirements.
Reserve a trade name that complies with the authority’s naming guidelines and reflects the intended business activity.
Obtain Initial Approval
Submit the application and required shareholder information to the relevant authority.
Initial approval means the business can move to the next steps. However, it does not allow the company to start trading on its own.
Arrange Documents and Premises
Complete the required company documents, including the Memorandum of Association where applicable.
Arrange the office, workspace or warehouse documentation required by the chosen jurisdiction and activity. For Dubai Mainland companies, premises and Ejari requirements should be confirmed with the relevant authority.
Obtain External Approvals
If the selected products or activities are regulated, obtain the necessary approvals from the competent authorities.
The rules can change based on the product, how it is stored, how it will be used and how it will be imported or sold.
Pay Fees and Receive the Licence
Submit the completed application, supporting documents and applicable payments.
Once the authority completes its checks and approves the application, the commercial licence can be issued.
Complete Post-Licensing Formalities
Depending on the business model, the company may need to:
- Complete immigration and establishment registration.
- Apply for shareholder or employee visas.
- Register for relevant customs services.
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Complete applicable tax registrations.
- Arrange product approvals and operational permits.
The company should commence trading only after the necessary licences and approvals are in place.
8. Dubai Customs Registration for General Trading Companies
Companies importing, exporting or clearing goods through Dubai Customs may need to register for the relevant customs services and obtain a customs business code.
A trade licence alone should not be treated as a substitute for customs registration.
The Dubai Customs registration process may require documents such as:
- Valid trade licence
- Passport details of the authorised person
- Emirates ID, where applicable
- Other documents requested by Dubai Customs
After registration, companies must follow the customs rules. These include declarations, documents, duties and inspections.
Dubai Customs Registration Fee
Dubai Customs publishes a business registration fee of AED 100, plus AED 20 in Knowledge and Innovation fees. The published service completion time is one working day, subject to a complete application and the service conditions.
See the official Dubai Customs business registration service for its current fee, documents and application details.
Need help with your trading company setup and related registrations? YouFirst ME can coordinate the company formation process and guide you through the required post-licensing formalities. Contact our team.
9. VAT and Corporate Tax Requirements
Getting a general trading licence does not complete the company’s tax duties. Businesses must also check which tax rules apply to them.
Businesses should understand the difference between VAT and Corporate Tax.
VAT Registration
The UAE standard VAT rate is 5%.
For UAE-resident businesses, mandatory VAT registration generally applies when the value of taxable supplies and imports exceeds AED 375,000 over the previous 12 months, or is expected to exceed this threshold in the next 30 days.
Voluntary registration may be available when the relevant taxable supplies, imports or taxable expenses exceed AED 187,500, subject to the applicable rules.
Therefore, businesses should monitor their taxable supplies, imports and eligible expenses and register when the relevant threshold or other registration rule applies. The Federal Tax Authority explains the thresholds and registration process on its official VAT registration page.
Corporate Tax
UAE Corporate Tax applies to taxable businesses under the federal Corporate Tax framework.
The general rate is:
- 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000.
- 9% on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000.
Free Zone companies are also within the Corporate Tax framework. A qualifying Free Zone Person may benefit from a 0% rate on qualifying income if all applicable conditions are satisfied.
A Free Zone licence does not automatically mean that the company is exempt from Corporate Tax.
Businesses should maintain proper financial records, assess their tax position and meet applicable registration and filing deadlines. The UAE Ministry of Finance Corporate Tax information explains the federal framework. YouFirst ME can also assist with business compliance coordination through its corporate services.
10. Opening a Corporate Bank Account
After obtaining the licence, a general trading company may apply for a corporate bank account.
Banks conduct their own due diligence and may request:
- Valid trade licence and incorporation documents
- Shareholder and director identification
- Business activity and product details
- Supplier and customer information
- Expected transaction volumes
- Source of funds and source of wealth information
- Contracts, invoices or business plans
- Office and operational details
The bank will review the business, its owners and its transactions before making a decision. Therefore, having a trade licence does not guarantee that the bank will approve the account. YouFirst ME can help prepare company documentation and coordinate relevant business setup formalities; the bank retains full control over account approval.
Explore YouFirst ME corporate services or contact our team for assistance.
11. How to Check a Trade License in Dubai Online
Businesses, suppliers and customers may need to verify whether a Dubai trade licence is valid.
Dubai’s official business licensing channels provide information about licensing services and business registration. For an accurate check, use the issuing authority’s current verification channel because the process and available search fields can differ between Mainland and Free Zone licences.
To check a company’s details, follow these steps:
- Obtain its trade licence number or company details.
- Use the relevant official government or licensing authority platform.
- Search using the available licence or company information.
- Review the displayed business details and licence status.
- Contact the issuing authority if the information requires clarification.
If the licence cannot be located, contact the issuing authority and request confirmation of its status, licensed activities and expiry date. Do not rely only on a screenshot or an unverified copy supplied by a third party.
12. General Trading License Renewal and Amendments
A general trading licence must be renewed before it expires, following the rules of the authority that issued it.
Before renewal, businesses should also review:
- Licence expiry date
- Outstanding authority fees
- Workspace or lease validity
- Immigration and establishment requirements
- External approvals
- Changes to shareholders or company details
If a company wants to add product categories, change its activities, update shareholders or modify its business address, it may need to apply for a licence amendment.
The authority must approve relevant changes before the company operates under the amended scope.
For support with licence-related formalities, see YouFirst ME’s PRO services and corporate services.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
A general trading company may face delays and extra costs if the setup is not planned well. Therefore, check the key details before you apply.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Selecting the wrong activities: Choosing activities without checking the actual products and business model can create operational restrictions.
- Assuming every product is permitted: Regulated goods may require additional licences, registrations or approvals.
- Comparing only the advertised licence price: Visa, workspace, customs, activity and renewal costs can increase the overall budget.
- Choosing the wrong jurisdiction: A Free Zone structure may not suit a business that requires direct mainland operations.
- Ignoring customs registration: Companies that use Dubai Customs services should plan for the relevant registration and clearance procedures.
- Overlooking tax obligations: VAT and Corporate Tax requirements depend on the company’s taxable activities and circumstances.
- Assuming a bank account is guaranteed: Banks apply independent due diligence and approval procedures.
- Delaying licence renewal: An expired licence can disrupt business operations and related registrations.
- Prepare a clear list of products to be traded.
- Identify the required trading activities.
- Check activity eligibility with the licensing authority.
- Choose the appropriate jurisdiction and legal structure.
- Prepare shareholder and company documents.
- Confirm office, workspace or warehouse requirements.
- Identify product-specific approvals.
- Budget for licence, visa, customs and other setup costs.
- Plan for tax registration and ongoing compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers cover common questions about general trading licence activities, costs, requirements and the Dubai application process.
1. How to get a general trading license in Dubai?
Choose your approved trading activities, select Mainland or Free Zone, reserve a trade name, obtain initial approval, submit the required documents, arrange premises and external approvals where applicable, and pay the licensing fees. The relevant authority issues the licence after completing its checks.
2. How much is a general trading license in Dubai?
The cost depends on the jurisdiction, activities, company structure, workspace and visa requirements. As an indicative planning estimate, initial setups may start around AED 12,000–25,000+ in some Free Zones and AED 18,000–30,000+ for some Mainland setups. These are not universal official fees.
3. Do we need a license for trading in the UAE?
Businesses conducting commercial trading activities in the UAE generally need the appropriate licence from the relevant authority. The required licence and approvals depend on the products, business model and jurisdiction.
4. How do I get a trade licence in Dubai?
Select the business activity and legal structure, reserve a trade name, obtain initial approval, complete the required documents and premises arrangements, secure any additional approvals, and pay the applicable fees to receive the licence.
5. What activities are included in a general trading licence?
Depending on the licensing authority’s approval, a general trading licence may cover multiple product categories and activities such as import, export, re-export, wholesale and retail trading. The approved activity list determines what the company can legally trade.
6. What is the difference between a general trading licence and a specific trading licence?
A general trading licence can cover multiple approved product categories, while a specific trading licence usually focuses on selected products or activities. The right option depends on the company’s intended product range and operating model.
7. Can foreigners own 100% of a general trading company in Dubai?
Full foreign ownership is permitted for most mainland commercial activities, subject to applicable exceptions and approvals. Free Zones generally also allow 100% foreign ownership.
8. Is a customs code required for a general trading company?
A company using Dubai Customs services for importing, exporting or clearing goods may need customs business registration and a customs code. The requirement should be checked against its actual customs operations.
9. Can I apply for a general trading licence online in Dubai?
Many licensing services and application stages are available through official government and Free Zone portals. The exact process and any in-person requirements depend on the selected authority and business structure.
10. How can I check a Dubai trade licence online?
Use the relevant official licensing authority’s verification service and search using the company name, licence number or other requested details. If the record is unavailable, request confirmation directly from the issuing authority.
11. Does a general trading licence allow a company to sell all types of products?
No. The company can trade only in the activities and product categories approved by its licensing authority. Regulated products may also need separate permits, registrations or approvals before import, storage or sale.
12. Does a Free Zone general trading licence allow direct sales in the Dubai Mainland?
A Free Zone licence does not automatically provide unrestricted mainland trading rights. The company must follow the applicable licensing, customs and distribution requirements for the goods and sales model.
Start Your General Trading Business in Dubai with the Right Setup
Selecting the right licence, activities and jurisdiction can influence your company’s operating costs, market access and long-term compliance.
Before applying, assess your product categories, suppliers, target markets, storage requirements and expected trading operations. A properly planned setup can help avoid unnecessary amendments, approval delays and unexpected expenses.
YouFirst ME provides business setup assistance for entrepreneurs planning to establish companies in Dubai and the UAE.
Discuss Your Business SetupThe information in this guide is for general business setup guidance. Licensing conditions, activity permissions, government fees and regulatory requirements depend on the selected authority, company structure and products involved. Confirm the applicable requirements for the proposed business before submitting an application.
