General Trading License in Dubai

Dubai has become one of the world’s biggest hubs for global trade, import-export businesses, and wholesale distribution. Today, entrepreneurs from across the world choose the UAE because of its tax-friendly environment, strategic location, and strong logistics network. As a result, demand for a general trading license in Dubai continues to grow among start-ups, investors, and international companies.

Whether you want to launch an eCommerce store, import electronics, export FMCG products, or build a wholesale company, Dubai offers the right environment for long-term business growth.

This guide explains everything you need to know about how to get general trading license in Dubai, including setup steps, benefits, costs, ownership rules, free zone options, and legal requirements.

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What is a General Trading License in Dubai?

A general trading license in Dubai allows businesses to trade multiple product categories under a single commercial license.

Unlike a standard trading license that limits activities to specific products, a general trading license provides broader flexibility. Therefore, companies can deal in different goods without applying for multiple licenses.

Businesses can use this license to:

  • Import products into the UAE
  • Export goods internationally
  • Re-export products worldwide
  • Conduct wholesale trading
  • Sell products locally
  • Operate online trading businesses

Dubai’s position between Asia, Europe, and Africa makes it one of the best locations for international trading companies.

The license is usually issued by:

  • Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for mainland companies
  • UAE free zone authorities for free zone businesses
General Trading License in Dubai

Benefits of General Trading License in Dubai

A general trading company in Dubai offers several advantages for entrepreneurs and investors.

Trade Multiple Products

One major benefit is flexibility.

Businesses can trade:

  • Electronics
  • Furniture
  • Cosmetics
  • Garments
  • Food Products
  • Household Items
  • Construction Materials
  • FMCG Products

As a result, companies can expand faster without obtaining multiple commercial licenses.

Easy Import & Export Operations

Dubai is globally known for import-export activities.

With a general trading license, businesses can:

  • Import goods from suppliers
  • Export products globally
  • Use UAE ports for re-export
  • Access international logistics networks

Moreover, Dubai’s airports and ports simplify international shipping operations.

100% Foreign Ownership

The UAE government now allows full foreign ownership for many trading activities.

Therefore, international investors can fully own their businesses in many mainland and free zone structures without requiring a local partner.

However, ownership rules may vary depending on:

  • Business activity
  • Jurisdiction
  • Regulatory Approvals
  • Access international logistics networks

Access to Global Markets

Dubai connects businesses to international markets quickly.

Companies benefit from:

  • Advanced Logistics
  • Global shipping routes
  • Tax-efficient operations
  • International banking access
  • Strong infrastructure

Because of this, multinational companies continue expanding their trading operations in Dubai.

Read Also: How to Get General Trading License in Dubai Free Zone?

Types of General Trading License in UAE

Businesses can choose between mainland and free zone structures.

A mainland license is issued by Dubai DET.

Benefits of Mainland Setup

  • Trade anywhere in UAE
  • Work with government contracts
  • Open offices across Dubai
  • Access wider UAE market
  • High business flexibility

Mainland businesses are ideal for companies targeting local UAE customers.

Free zone authorities also issue trading licenses.

Benefits of Free Zone Setup

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • tax advantages
  • simplified setup process
  • lower startup costs in some zones
  • easy customs procedures

Free zones are popular among:

  • Startups
  • Import-export companies
  • E-Commerce businesses
  • International traders

However, direct mainland trading may require local distribution arrangements.

Mainland vs Free Zone General Trading License

Feature Mainland License Free Zone License
Market Access UAE-wide Mainly free zone
Ownership Up to 100% in many activities 100% foreign ownership
Office Location Anywhere in Dubai Inside free zone
Government Projects Allowed Limited
Customs Benefits Standard Often tax-efficient
Expansion Flexibility High Some restrictions
Startup Cost Moderate Startup-friendly

The right option depends on your business goals and operational requirements.

Activities Allowed Under General Trading License

A Dubai general trading license covers multiple industries.

Electronics Trading

Businesses can trade:

  • Mobile phones
  • Gadgets
  • Laptops
  • Accessories
  • Home electronics

Foodstuff Trading

Companies may trade:

  • Beverages
  • Packaged food
  • Imported food items
  • Dry food products
  • Home electronics

Certain products may require municipality approvals.

Textile Trading

Includes:

  • Clothing
  • Garments
  • Fabrics
  • Uniforms
  • Fashion accessories

FMCG Trading

Fast-moving consumer goods include:

  • Household products
  • Toiletries
  • Cleaning products
  • Packaged consumer items

Cosmetics Trading

Companies can trade:

  • Perfumes
  • Skincare products
  • Makeup items
  • Beauty accessories

Additional approvals may apply for cosmetic imports.

Furniture Trading

Includes:

  • Office furniture
  • Home décor
  • Commercial furniture
  • Furnishing products

eCommerce Trading

Many businesses use a general trading license in Dubai for:

  • Online stores
  • Wholesale platforms
  • Digital marketplaces
  • B2B trading websites

How to Get General Trading License in Dubai

Understanding how to get general trading license in Dubai helps avoid delays and unnecessary costs.

01.

Choose Business Activity

Select the trading activities you want under your license.

02.

Select Jurisdiction

Choose between:

  • Mainland
  • Free zone

This depends on your market strategy and budget.

03.

Reserve Trade Name

Apply for company name approval with the relevant authority.

04.

Apply for Initial Approval

Authorities review your business structure and activities.

05.

Prepare Documents

Common documents include:

  • Passport copies
  • Visa copies
  • Incorporation papers
  • Lease agreement
  • Shareholder details
06.

Secure Office Space

Depending on your setup, you may need:

  • Office space
  • Warehouse
  • Flexi-desk solution
07.

License Issuance

After approvals and payment, authorities issue the license.

08.

Open Bank Account & Apply for Visas

Businesses can then:

  • Apply for investor visas
  • Sponsor employees
  • Open UAE bank accounts

    Packages of General Trading License in Dubai

    Select a Dubai General Trading License Packages that's perfect for you.

    General Trading License in Dubai Free Zone

    AED12,900

    • Get General Trading License in Dubai Free Zone
    • All-inclusive package
    • 100% Foreign Ownership
    • Freezone Trade License
    • Zero Visa Allocation
    • No NOC Required
    • No minimum Capital Required
    Get Started Today

    General Trading License in UAE Free Zone

    AED8,050

    • Get General Trading License in UAE Free Zone
    • All-inclusive package
    • 100% Foreign Ownership
    • Virtual office space in the free-zone
    • No Visa Quota
    • No minimum Capital Required
    • MOU and Share Certificate Included
    Get Started Today

    General Trading License in Dubai Mainland

    AED35,000

    • Get General Trading License in Dubai Mainland
    • All-inclusive package
    • Instant License within one day
    • Two Investor Visa Quota
    • No Office Space Required
    • No Ejari
    • 100% Ownership
    • Mainland Trade license (Govt. fees)
    • Memorandum of Association(MOA)
    • Company stamp
    Get Started Today

    Documents Required to Get a General Trading License in Dubai

    Required documents vary based on company structure.

    Basic Documents Required

    Most applications require:

    • Passport copies
    • UAE visa copy
    • Emirates ID copy
    • Passport-size photos
    • Trade name reservation
    • Office tenancy agreement
    • Business activity details

    Additional approvals may apply for regulated products.

    For Individual Shareholders

    • Passport copy
    • Passport photo
    • Visa copy (if applicable)
    • Emirates ID

    For Corporate Shareholders

    • Certificate of incorporation
    • Memorandum of association
    • Board resolution
    • Shareholder details

    To clarify, some jurisdictions may require document attestation or additional approvals.

    General Trading License Cost in Dubai

    The general trading license cost in Dubai depends on several factors.

    Cost Factors

    Pricing varies based on:

    • Mainland or free zone setup
    • Office size
    • Visa allocation
    • Warehouse requirement
    • Customs registration
    • External approvals

    Get a Free Quote

    Get a free quote, fill up the form below.

      Average General Trading License Cost in Dubai (2026)

      Setup TypeEstimated Cost
      Free Zone General Trading LicenseAED 12,000 – AED 30,000
      Mainland General Trading LicenseAED 25,000 – AED 55,000+
      Investor Visa CostAED 3,500 – AED 7,000 per person
      Office Space / EjariAED 10,000 – AED 80,000 yearly

      Industry sources in 2026 report that most businesses spend between AED 22,000 and AED 55,000 for a complete general trading company setup in Dubai.

      Mainland General Trading License Cost Breakdow

      Trade License Fee

      The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) charges approximately AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 for issuing the commercial license.

      General Trading Activity Fee

      Mainland companies may pay an additional activity fee of around AED 15,000 annually for the “General Trading” activity category.

      Trade Name Registration

      Business name approval usually costs between AED 620 and AED 2,000 depending on the name selected.

      Initial Approval Fee

      Government approval charges generally range from AED 300 to AED 1,000.

      Office Rent & Ejari

      A mainland company requires a physical office and Ejari registration. Costs can start from AED 10,000 and go much higher depending on location and office size.

      Visa Charges

      Investor and employee visas usually cost AED 3,500 to AED 7,000 per visa including medical tests and Emirates ID.

      Free Zone General Trading License Cost

      Free zones are generally cheaper for start-ups and small businesses.

      Typical Free Zone Package Includes:

      • Trade license
      • Shared office or flexi-desk
      • One investor visa
      • Business registration

      Estimated package cost:

      • AED 12,000 to AED 38,000 depending on the free zone and visa package.

      Hidden Costs You Should Know

      Many business owners forget to budget for:

      • Chamber of Commerce fees
      • Customs code registration
      • MOA notarisation
      • Bank account assistance
      • Municipality fees
      • Office renewal charges

      Several entrepreneurs on Reddit also mention that setup agents sometimes add high service charges, so comparing quotations is important before proceeding.

      Mainland vs Free Zone General Trading License Comparison Table

      Cost & Features Mainland General Trading License Free Zone General Trading License
      License Cost AED 25,000 – AED 55,000+ AED 12,000 – AED 30,000
      Government Fees Higher Lower
      Office Requirement Physical office mandatory Flexi-desk options available
      Office Cost AED 10,000 – AED 80,000 yearly Often included in package
      Visa Cost AED 3,500 – AED 7,000 per visa AED 3,000 – AED 6,000 per visa
      Trade Name Registration AED 620 – AED 2,000 Usually included
      Initial Approval Fee AED 300 – AED 1,000 Usually included
      Customs Code Registration Additional cost May be included
      UAE Market Access Full UAE market access Limited without local distributor
      Ownership 100% foreign ownership allowed in most activities 100% foreign ownership
      Audit Requirement Depends on activity Required in some free zones
      Setup Time 5–10 working days 2–7 working days
      Business Flexibility High Moderate
      Best For Local UAE trading & retail Import/export & international trade

      Can Foreigners Own 100% Trading Business in UAE?

      Yes. Many trading activities now allow complete foreign ownership.

      This major reform has made Dubai even more attractive for international investors.

      However, ownership rules may still vary depending on:

      • Business activity
      • Jurisdiction
      • Approvals required

      Therefore, businesses should always verify current regulations before company formation.

      How Long Does License Approval Take?

      Approval timelines depend on:

      • Business activity
      • Documentation
      • Approvals required
      • Chosen jurisdiction

      Average Timeline

      In many cases:

      • Free zone licenses take a few days
      • Mainland approvals take 5–10 working days

      Complex trading activities may require additional approvals.

      Also Read: How to Start Foodstuff Trading Business in Dubai

      Bank Account Opening for Trading Companies

      Opening a corporate bank account is an important step after company registration.

      Most UAE banks require:

      • Valid trade license
      • Shareholder documents
      • Office proof
      • Business plan
      • Source of funds explanation

      Trading companies involved in international transactions may undergo additional compliance checks.

      Professional guidance can simplify the banking process significantly.

      Best Free Zones for Trading Businesses

      Several UAE free zones are popular among trading companies.

      01.

      IFZA Dubai

      Known for:

      • Affordable setup
      • Fast approvals
      • Flexible packages
      02.

      DMCC

      Ideal for:

      • International trading
      • Commodities businesses
      • Global companies
      03.

      JAFZA

      Perfect for:

      • Logistics operations
      • Warehouse businesses
      • Import-export companies
      04.

      Dubai South

      Popular among:

      • e-Commerce companies
      • Startup traders
      • Logistics businesses
      05.

      SHAMS

      Suitable for:

      • Startups
      • Small businesses
      • Budget-friendly company setup

      Choose a free zone based on your business goals and operational needs.

      06.

      Secure Office Space

      Depending on your setup, you may need:

      • Office space
      • Warehouse
      • Flexi-desk solution
      07.

      License Issuance

      After approvals and payment, authorities issue the license.

      08.

      Open Bank Account & Apply for Visas

      Businesses can then:

      • Apply for investor visas
      • Sponsor employees
      • Open UAE bank accounts

        Frequently Asked Questions

        What is a general trading license in Dubai?

        A general trading license allows businesses to trade multiple product categories under one commercial license.

        Read  Also: how to get trading license in Dubai 

        The cost usually starts from AED 12,000 and increases based on office space, visas, and approvals.

        You must select your business activity, choose a jurisdiction, reserve a trade name, submit documents, and complete licensing approvals.

        Yes. Many trading activities now allow complete foreign ownership.

        Yes. Businesses can legally operate eCommerce and online trading activities.

        The cost varies depending on the business activity, jurisdiction, office requirements, and visa allocation. Free zone licenses often have lower entry costs, while mainland licenses may involve additional office-related expenses.

        Start Your General Trading Business in Dubai

        Dubai continues to attract global investors because of its strong economy, tax-friendly policies, and international trade opportunities. A general trading license in Dubai gives businesses the flexibility to trade multiple products, expand internationally, and build long-term growth in the UAE market.

        Whether you want to launch an import-export company, wholesale business, or eCommerce platform, choosing the right setup structure is important for success.

        Need Help With General Trading License Setup?

        Our UAE business setup specialists can assist you with:

        • mainland company formation
        • free zone setup
        • trade license approvals
        • investor visas
        • customs registration
        • VAT registration
        • bank account assistance

        Speak With Company Setup Experts Today

        Phone: +971 58 259 5164
        Email: info@companysetup.ae