The cheapest trade license in UAE can start from around AED 5,500–6,000 for selected free-zone packages in 2026. For example, UAQ Free Trade Zone currently advertises its LYTE package from AED 5,500, SPC Free Zone offers selected licences from AED 5,750, and RAKEZ advertises business setup from AED 6,000.
However, the lowest licence price does not always mean the lowest total setup cost. A visa, establishment card, workspace, Emirates ID, medical test, immigration charges, and renewal costs can increase your final budget.
Therefore, if you want the cheapest trade license in UAE, compare the complete first-year and renewal costs instead of choosing only the lowest advertised number.
Before choosing a low-cost licence, compare the complete trade license cost in Dubai, including registration, office and visa expenses.
Table of Contents
Find the Cheapest Trade License Package for Your Business
What Is the Cheapest Trade License in UAE?
The cheapest trade license in UAE depends on your business activity, visa requirement, jurisdiction, and office needs.
For a simple no-visa setup, UAQ Free Trade Zone currently offers one of the lowest clearly advertised options at AED 5,500 through its LYTE package. The package includes a free-zone business licence, coworking space, bank-account assistance, remote formation, and up to 50 shareholders. The authority also states that its renewal remains AED 5,500.
Ajman Free Zone currently advertises an e-commerce licence from AED 5,555, while SPC Free Zone offers selected e-commerce, IT, marketing, and administrative-service licences from AED 5,750.
Cheapest Trade License Options in the UAE
Some low-cost options currently include:
- UAQ Free Trade Zone: From AED 5,500
- Ajman Free Zone: E-commerce from AED 5,555
- SPC Free Zone: Selected licences from AED 5,750
- RAKEZ: Basic setup from AED 6,000
These prices apply to selected packages and activities. They are not universal prices for every licence.
Understanding the overall business setup cost in Dubai can help you choose a licence package that fits your budget.
What Is Included in a Cheap Trade License?
A budget package may include:
- Trade licence
- Company registration
- Selected business activities
- Basic incorporation documents
- Shared workspace or coworking
- Bank-account assistance
- Remote company formation
For instance, UAQ LYTE includes the licence, coworking, bank-account assistance, and remote incorporation.
Is the Cheapest License Really the Cheapest Option?
Not always.
A licence advertised at AED 5,500 may not include:
- Residence visa
- Medical fitness
- Emirates ID
- Establishment card
- Immigration fees
- Additional activities
- Warehouse
- Dedicated office
- Customs registration
- Professional service fees
So, always ask for a written breakdown before paying.
Cheapest Trade License in UAE – Free Zone Comparison
| Free Zone | License From | Visa | Office | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SHAMS | AED 5,750 | Optional | Flexi/Package dependent | Startups |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,500 | Available | Package dependent | Trading/SMEs |
| IFZA | AED 11,900+ | Available | Package dependent | International business |
| Meydan | AED 12,500+ | Available | Package dependent | Dubai-based companies |
| Dubai South | AED 12,000+ | Available | Package dependent | Logistics/Services |
Compare the Cheapest Trade License Packages in Dubai
Cheapest Free Zone in UAE
Based on currently advertised entry-level packages, UAQ Free Trade Zone is among the lowest-cost options with its AED 5,500 LYTE package.
However, Ajman Free Zone comes very close with an e-commerce package from AED 5,555.
Therefore, the Cheapest Free Zone in UAE for you depends on the exact activity you need.
me entrepreneurs, free zones generally provide the cheapest trade license in Dubai, making them a favoured choice for small businesses, side ventures, and start-ups.
If your priority is the lowest setup cost, compare the cheapest free zone in UAE before selecting a jurisdiction.
Cheapest Free Zone with Visa in UAE
If you need residency, compare visa-inclusive packages rather than licence-only offers.
UAQ currently offers its START package at AED 12,500, including the business licence, one residence visa, Emirates ID processing, medical test, insurance, coworking space, and bank-account assistance.
That makes UAQ one of the clearest options to compare when searching for the Cheapest Free Zone with Visa in UAE.
Cheapest Free Zone for Small Businesses
Small service businesses can consider:
- UAQ
- SPC Free Zone
- Ajman Free Zone
- RAKEZ
These zones offer low-entry packages and flexible office options.
Cheapest Free Zone for Trading Businesses
Trading businesses should compare activity scope carefully.
A service or e-commerce licence may cost less than a broader commercial or general trading licence. Therefore, the cheapest free zone overall may not provide the Cheapest Trading License in UAE for your required product categories.
Cheapest Trade License in Dubai
The Cheapest Trade License in Dubai usually costs more than the lowest-cost licences available in emirates such as Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah.
Dubai offers strong business infrastructure, address value, logistics access, and commercial credibility. However, this can come with higher licensing or facility costs.
Cheapest Free Zone Trade License in Dubai
Dubai free zones follow their own fee schedules and package structures.
Unlike UAQ, SPC, and RAKEZ, many Dubai free zones do not publish one universal low entry price for every business activity.
Therefore, when comparing the Cheapest Free Zone in Dubai, check:
- Activity fee
- Number of shareholders
- Visa allocation
- Flexi-desk cost
- Establishment card
- Renewal charges
- Additional activity fees
Cheapest Mainland Trade License in Dubai
The Cheapest Mainland Trade License in UAE cannot be reduced to one standard figure.
Mainland costs depend on the DET activity, company structure, office or Ejari, visa needs, and government fees.
Cheapest Trade License with Visa in Dubai
A licence with a visa costs more than a no-visa licence.
Your budget should include:
- Licence
- Establishment card
- Investor visa
- Medical fitness
- Emirates ID
- Health insurance
- Office or business-centre arrangement
Cheapest Trade License for Small Businesses in Dubai
For a small Dubai-based business, the cheapest option is usually the licence that matches one focused activity and avoids unnecessary visa or office commitments.
Therefore, do not choose general trading if you only need one specific product category.
Cheapest Free Zone in UAE for Business Setup
Different free zones suit different business models.
| Free Zone | Starting Cost | Licence / Package Details | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajman Free Zone | AED 5,555 | E-commerce licence package includes company name, e-commerce licence, official documentation, coworking access, and 100% foreign ownership. | Online businesses and small startups |
| Sharjah Free Zones (SPC Free Zone) | AED 5,750 | Licences from AED 5,750 for selected e-commerce, IT, administrative, and marketing activities. | Service-led and online businesses |
| Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones (RAKEZ) | AED 6,000 | Company setup from AED 6,000, with e-commerce packages also starting from AED 6,000. | SMEs, trading, services, e-commerce, warehouses and larger premises |
| Umm Al Quwain Free Zone (UAQ LYTE) | AED 5,500 | LYTE package starts from AED 5,500; START package costs AED 12,500 with residency benefits. | Entrepreneurs seeking a low-cost UAE free zone setup |
| Dubai Free Zones | Varies | Dubai free zones offer specialised ecosystems and strong location positioning, but costs can be higher than other UAE free zones. | Businesses prioritising Dubai location, market access and specialised ecosystems |
Cheapest General Trading License in UAE
The cheapest General Trading License in the UAE can start from around AED 5,000–6,000 in low-cost free zones such as Ajman Free Zone and RAKEZ, depending on the activity, visa quota, and package. Ajman Free Zone and RAKEZ are currently among the most cost-effective options for trading businesses.
Businesses planning to trade multiple products can explore the requirements and costs of a general trading license in Dubai.
What Can You Trade with a General Trading License?
A general trading licence can cover a broad range of permitted products, such as:
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Household products
- Furniture
- Equipment
- Consumer goods
- Industrial products
Regulated goods may still require additional approval.
Cheapest Free Zone for General Trading
UAQ, SPC, and RAKEZ can all be compared for general trading.
However, the lowest headline licence package may not cover general trading. Confirm the actual activity cost before deciding.
General Trading License Requirements
Common requirements include:
- Passport
- Photograph
- Company name
- Shareholder details
- Business activity
- Registered address or facility
- Customs registration when importing or exporting
- Additional approvals for regulated products
Entrepreneurs looking to reduce initial expenses can learn whether they can obtain a trade license without an office in Dubai.
Trading License vs General Trading License
| Feature | Trading License | General Trading License |
|---|---|---|
| Business Scope | Limited to specified goods or activities | Broader range of goods and trading activities |
| Product Categories | Usually specific categories | Multiple product categories |
| Cost | Generally lower | Usually higher |
| Flexibility | Suitable for focused businesses | Suitable for diversified trading companies |
| Best For | Businesses dealing in specific products | Businesses importing, exporting or trading multiple products |
| Approvals | Depends on the products | May require additional approvals for regulated products |
Cheapest Trading License for Import and Export
The cheapest import and export trading license in the UAE can start from around AED 5,500 in low-cost free zones such as Umm Al Quwain (UAQ). Ajman Free Zone starts at around AED 5,555, while RAKEZ starts at around AED 6,000.
For businesses focused on importing and exporting multiple products, UAQ Free Trade Zone is one of the most affordable options, with its General Trading License allowing import and export of permitted goods. Additional approvals may apply to regulated products.
Cheapest Trading License for Small Traders
For a small trader, a focused commercial activity can provide better value than a broad general trading licence.
Cheapest Business License in UAE by Business Type
The Cheapest Business License in UAE changes according to what you do.
Cheapest License for Trading
Compare UAQ, SPC, RAKEZ, and Ajman based on the exact trading activity.
Cheapest License for E-Commerce
Ajman currently advertises e-commerce from AED 5,555, while SPC starts at AED 5,750 and RAKEZ at AED 6,000.
If you plan to sell products online, compare the requirements and pricing of an e-commerce license in Dubai.
Cheapest Professional License
UAQ LYTE can provide a low entry point for selected service activities from AED 5,500. SPC also offers various service categories from AED 5,750.
Cheapest Commercial License
Commercial pricing depends on the exact goods and jurisdiction.
A narrower commercial activity often costs less than general trading.
Cheapest License for Small Business
For many small businesses, the best value comes from:
- One shareholder
- No visa initially
- Shared workspace
- One focused business activity
Cheapest Free Zone with Visa in UAE
The Cheapest Free Zone with Visa in UAE should be compared on all-inclusive cost.
Trade License Cost Without Visa
A no-visa licence can start around AED 5,500–6,000 for selected packages.
Trade License Cost With One Investor Visa
A visa-enabled package can start at around AED 12,500 in some cases. UAQ START currently offers this level with one residence visa and supporting residency services.
Establishment Card and Immigration Costs
These may come separately unless the package specifically includes them.
Total First-Year Cost With Visa
A realistic first-year budget for a low-cost company with one visa can often reach approximately AED 12,000–20,000+, depending on the authority and package.
When comparing cheap licences, also consider the recurring trade license renewal in Dubai cost.
Cheapest Mainland Trade License in UAE
A mainland company can cost more, but it may offer better access to the UAE local market.
Mainland License Cost
Your cost depends on:
- Business activity
- Legal structure
- Trade name
- Office
- Visa quota
- External approvals
Office Requirements
Many mainland businesses need a suitable registered address and tenancy arrangement.
Therefore, office cost can significantly increase the first-year budget.
Visa Costs
Add investor and employee visa costs separately where required.
Mainland vs Free Zone Cost
If your only objective is low upfront cost, a free zone often offers cheaper packages.
If your objective is local UAE trading, retail, or direct customer access, mainland may offer better long-term value.
How Much Does the Cheapest Trade License in UAE Cost?
he cheapest trade license in the UAE can currently start at around AED 5,500 for selected licence-only or no-visa packages. However, the total cost of setting up and operating a company will usually be higher.
| Cost Component | Typical Cost / Details |
|---|---|
| Trade Licence | AED 5,500–15,000+ depending on the free zone, activity and package |
| Company Registration | May be included in the package or charged separately |
| Establishment Card | Package-dependent |
| Residence Visa | Several thousand dirhams per person |
| Medical & Emirates ID | Additional unless included in the package |
| Workspace | Shared workspace or flexi-desk may be included |
| Dedicated Office | Higher cost if a physical office is required |
| Government Charges | Vary according to business activity and authority |
| Annual Renewal | Varies by free zone and selected package |
Cheapest Trade License in UAE vs Dubai: Which Is Better?
If your main priority is low cost, a trade licence in a UAE free zone outside Dubai is generally the better choice. In 2026, low-cost UAE free-zone packages can start below AED 6,000, while Dubai free-zone licences commonly start around AED 7,500–12,500+, depending on the zone and package.
| Factor | Cheapest UAE Free Zones | Dubai Free Zones |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Licence Cost | From around AED 4,888–5,500 | From around AED 7,500–12,500+ |
| Overall Setup Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Visa Packages | Available at additional cost or in bundled packages | Available, but usually at a higher total setup cost |
| Office Requirement | Flexi-desk/shared workspace options are common | Flexi-desk and office options available, depending on the zone |
| Business Activities | Trading, e-commerce, services and other approved activities | Trading, e-commerce, technology, media and specialised activities |
| Location Advantage | Good for cost-conscious businesses | Strong Dubai address and market positioning |
| Best For | Startups and businesses focused on affordability | Businesses that specifically need a Dubai presence |
| Main Advantage | Lower setup and renewal costs | Dubai location and business ecosystem |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest Trade License in UAE
What is the cheapest trade license in UAE?
The cheapest trade license in UAE currently starts at around AED 5,500 for selected packages. UAQ LYTE is one example at this price.
What is the cheapest trade license in Dubai?
The Cheapest Trade License in Dubai depends on the free zone or mainland activity. Dubai-based licences often cost more than low-entry packages offered in UAQ, Ajman, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah.
What is the cheapest free zone in UAE?
UAQ Free Trade Zone is currently among the lowest based on its AED 5,500 LYTE package. Ajman and SPC also offer competitive packages from AED 5,555 and AED 5,750 respectively.
What is the cheapest free zone in Dubai?
The Cheapest Free Zone in Dubai depends on activity and package inclusions. Compare licence, office, visa, establishment card, and renewal costs before choosing.
What is the cheapest general trading license in UAE?
The Cheapest General Trading License in UAE depends on the free zone and trading scope. General trading normally costs more than a single commercial activity, so request the exact general-trading fee rather than using a service-licence price.
What is the cheapest free zone with visa in UAE?
UAQ START currently offers a clear visa-inclusive option at AED 12,500 with one residence visa, Emirates ID processing, medical, insurance, coworking, and banking support.
What is the cheapest mainland trade license in UAE?
The Cheapest Mainland Trade License in UAE varies by emirate, activity, premises, and visa requirement. Mainland setups generally cost more than the lowest free-zone packages.
Can I get a cheap trade license without a visa?
Yes. No-visa options are common. UAQ LYTE is one current example at AED 5,500.
Can I get a UAE trade license for less than AED 10,000?
Yes. Several selected free-zone packages currently fall below AED 10,000, including UAQ LYTE, Ajman e-commerce packages, SPC selected licences, and RAKEZ’s AED 6,000 setup offer.
Get the Cheapest Trade License in UAE
Finding the cheapest trade license in UAE does not mean choosing the lowest number on an advertisement.
The right option should match your business activity, visa needs, office requirements, market, and future plans.
Our team can help you compare free zone and mainland options, calculate the complete first-year cost, review renewal charges, and select a licence that fits your business instead of simply pushing the cheapest package.
Whether you need the Cheapest Trade License in Dubai, a low-cost UAE free zone licence, general trading, e-commerce, or a visa-inclusive setup, start with a customised comparison.
Get the Best Trade License Package for Your Budget
Get a clear quotation based on your activity, number of visas, office requirement, jurisdiction, and first-year budget.
About the Author:
Company Setup Consultants is a team of experienced business setup consultants in Dubai with 13+ years of experience helping entrepreneurs, startups, and investors establish and grow businesses across the UAE. The team’s expertise covers company formation, trade licensing, PRO services, Golden Visa applications, trademark registration, VAT, corporate banking assistance, and business compliance. Based at Conrad Business Tower, 19th Floor, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, the team creates accurate, practical, and regularly updated content based on hands-on industry experience and the latest UAE business regulations.
