General Trade License
General Trade License in Dubai, UAE
Simplify Business, Maximize Growth with a General Trade License in Dubai
Over 7,500 Customers Satisfied
Top Registered Partner with all Free Zones in UAE
A general trade license in Dubai is a highly sought-after license that enables businesses to engage in the import, export, and trading of a wide range of goods and commodities. Unlike other licenses that limit businesses to specific product categories, the general trade license offers flexibility, allowing companies to deal in multiple product lines under one license. This makes it a preferred option for entrepreneurs who want to operate across diverse industries without the need for multiple permits.
With a general trade license in Dubai, businesses can conduct trading activities both within the UAE and internationally, positioning Dubai as a strategic hub for global commerce. The license covers numerous goods, with some exceptions such as restricted or regulated products like tobacco, pharmaceuticals, and items that do not comply with health or safety standards.
Acquiring a general trade license is a straightforward process through the Department of Economic Development (DED). The key steps involve selecting the appropriate business structure, choosing a jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. Additionally, businesses are required to secure an office space and have a valid physical address in Dubai, which is a mandatory part of the application process.
This license not only grants businesses the flexibility to trade across different sectors but also opens opportunities for global expansion, thanks to Dubai’s strategic location and business-friendly environment. Moreover, having a general trade license in Dubai provides credibility, as it is regulated by the DED, ensuring that businesses meet the necessary compliance standards.
Free Zone Business Setup
Mainland Business Setup
Run your business anywhere in the UAE without any limitations.
Offshore Business Setup
Set up your offshore company and operate outside the UAE with a corporate bank account.
Step 1: Choose Jurisdiction
For a General Trade License in Dubai, opting for a mainland license gives you the freedom to trade goods across the UAE without restrictions. A mainland license is preferable, as free zone licenses come with limitations on the movement of goods. Get approval from the Department of Economic Development.
Step 2: Select Business Activities
Choose up to 10 activities for your general trading business, ensuring all are regulated goods that meet health and safety standards. Avoid selecting goods that require external approvals, such as firearms or pharmaceuticals.
Step 3: Select a Company Name
Choose a unique name for your general trading business in Dubai and send it for initial approval. Once approved, you can proceed with the application for your General Trade License in Dubai while ensuring compliance with naming regulations.
Step 4: Secure Office Space and Warehouse
Rent office space and a warehouse, as general trading involves physical goods that require storage. A mainland license offers flexibility, while a free zone license may impose restrictions on storage and operations. Some free zones allow virtual offices, depending on your business needs.
Step 5: Customs Clearance
To import goods, you must secure customs clearance by obtaining an import code from the customs authority. Register with any customs authority in the UAE and pay the required fees to comply with General Trade License in Dubai regulations.
How Much Does Business Setup In Dubai Cost?
It depends on several factors, such as your business activity, Free zone or Mainland, Number of Visas required, and shareholders . Based on our 4 years of experience in business setup in Dubai, we have developed a Business Setup Cost Calculator to give you answer.
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Business plan
#2
License Application
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Fees payment receipt
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Name Approval letter from DED
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MOA (Memorandum of Association)
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Passport copy of the investor or the shareholders (if any)
Why Business Setup in UAE?
Maximize your earnings with the UAE’s 0% income tax policy through Business Setup in UAE.
Repatriate 100% of your capital and profits to your home country. Leverage growing market demand fueled by Expo 2020. Benefit from customs duty exemptions on imports and exports, with the potential to operate without leasing office space depending on the zone.
Experience minimal paperwork and auditing requirements, while accessing new markets across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Enjoy full company ownership and the easiest online processes for your Business Setup in Dubai & the UAE.