UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
UAE Free-zone or Mainland Company with residence visa, employment card and bank account opening.
![]() Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
![]() Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
![]() Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
![]() Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
![]() Manage your business and track services |
WIO Bank Official Partner Seamlessly open your UAE Bank Account |
General trading in Dubai helps entrepreneurs import, export, and distribute various products, from electronics and clothing to furniture and food. While it covers diverse goods, certain items like pharmaceuticals and alcohol may have specific restrictions. A General Trading License in Dubai is important for conducting these activities legally and efficiently. The benefits include operational flexibility, access to local and international markets, and a favourable tax environment. To obtain a General Trading License, submit the necessary documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED) and follow all the legalities for business setup. This article explains the Dubai General trading license, benefits, requirements, activities, fees, and how to get it.
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A general trading license in Dubai is a business permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority. This license empowers companies to import, export, and trade diverse goods within the UAE and internationally. It is specified by its versatility since it can trade various items with few exceptions like tobacco products failing to meet health standards. While a ‘trading license’ restricts the company to trade within a single product category of an industry, a ‘general trading license’ grants the freedom to trade multiple products across various industries.
A General Trading License offers numerous benefits like a wide range of business activities, access to local and international markets, etc. Below are all the main benefits you’ll get with a general trading license in Dubai,
General trading covers a wide variety of business activities in Dubai. Here are some of the common business activities that qualify for a general trading license under Dubai,
To get a General trading license in Dubai, you must submit the necessary documentation to the Department of Economic Development (DED). The specific documents you need depend on your chosen company structure:
Getting a General trading license in Dubai includes choosing a jurisdiction, selecting a proper company name, securing office space, and getting customs clearance. Let's get into each step one by one:
Dubai offers two main business locations: the Mainland and Free Zones. Selecting the right one depends on your priorities:
Consider factors like local market access, global reach needs, and regulatory preferences before deciding.
Dubai has specific naming guidelines for businesses:
You can also register trademarks and franchises to protect your intellectual property.
Since you'll be dealing with physical goods, renting appropriate office space is crucial. Look for the following:
Choosing the right office space optimises storage, efficiency, and your business's growth potential.
You'll need an import code from the customs authority to import goods. This facilitates smooth clearance processes. You'll also need to:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to obtaining a Dubai general trading license and starting your import business smoothly.
The general trading license in Dubai carries a slightly higher initial cost than single-activity licenses. However, this is balanced by the significant advantage of allowing you to trade in a wider range of products. This flexibility provides greater room for business growth and diversification in the long run. Ultimately, the total cost of your license depends on several factors, such as your chosen business location, office and warehouse space requirements, and any additional permits needed.
When choosing a location for your general trading business in Dubai, you have two main options: the Mainland and various Free Zones. Each offers unique advantages and suits to different business needs.
Learn more: Difference Between Mainland and Freezone Company
The following table captures the essential differences between a general trading license and a trade license in Dubai:
Feature | General Trading License | Trade License |
Product Range | Trade in a wide range of products (with some exceptions) | Trade in a single product category within a specific industry |
Scalability | Ideal for businesses aiming to grow and diversify product offerings | Limited to a single product category |
Flexibility | Allows for import, export, wholesale, and retail activities | May be restricted to specific activities (e.g., wholesale only) |
Cost | Slightly higher initial cost due to broader scope | Potentially lower initial cost |
Suitability | Businesses targeting various products and markets | Businesses focused on a specific product category |
The Dubai General Trading License helps businesses seeking to import, export, and trade a diverse range of products. While some restrictions exist, the license offers exceptional flexibility, access to local and international markets, and a streamlined application process. From establishing a retail store to launching an e-commerce platform, a general trading license empowers you to build a thriving business in Dubai's dynamic trading landscape.
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