How to get General Trading License in Dubai

If you’re planning to start a general trading business in the UAE, then one of the first things you’ll need is a General Trading License in Dubai. This article will walk you through everything—step by step—so you don’t get lost in the process. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an international trader looking to expand, understanding the business setup in Dubai and how to obtain your license is absolutely essential.

So, why Dubai? Why not some other place?

Well, Dubai is not just a city, it’s a global business hub that connects East and West. With its tax-friendly environment, advanced logistics infrastructure, and strategic location, Dubai has become a hotspot for both startups and large corporations. Plus, the government here keeps pushing pro-business policies which makes it easier for investors to get started. That’s one big reason why getting a General Trading License in Dubai is such a smart move.

Now, let’s quickly understand what a General Trading License actually is. Basically, it allows you to trade a wide range of goods under one license—think electronics, clothes, foodstuff, furniture, and more. This is different from other types of trade licenses in UAE that usually allow only one or two related activities. With this license, you can import and export goods legally, sell them in local markets or even online.

This article is specially designed to help you understand how to get a Dubai trade license, what documents are needed, and what mistakes to avoid. So keep reading—we’re just getting started on how to get your General Trading License in Dubai the right way.

Also Read: How to Start a Coaching Business in Dubai

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What is a General Trading License?

Before diving deep into the full process, it’s important to know what exactly is a General Trading License in Dubai and why it’s so popular among entrepreneurs and investors. So let’s break it down in simple words.

A General Trading License in Dubai is a type of commercial license that allows business owners to trade multiple unrelated goods under one license. This means you can deal in electronics, clothes, home appliances, accessories, food items, toys, and much more—all at once. Unlike some other types of trade licenses in UAE, where you’re limited to a single niche or product category, this one gives you more flexibility and freedom.

For example, if someone wants to sell mobile phones and clothing in the same company, they can do that easily with a General Trading License in Dubai. That’s why it is very attractive for international companies who want to operate from Dubai and reach global markets, as well as for new startups who want to test different products without restrictions.

The General Trading License also covers import and export activities, so you’re not just limited to selling inside the UAE. You can bring in goods from other countries, warehouse them in Dubai, and re-export them anywhere you want. This kind of flexibility is super useful if you’re looking to run a regional distribution business.

So, who should get this kind of license? Well, anyone who wants to do a general trading business in Dubai. It doesn’t matter if you’re a solo entrepreneur, a small company, or a large corporation. As long as you’re not dealing with restricted or special goods like pharmaceuticals, alcohol, or military equipment (which need extra approvals), the General Trading License in Dubai has you covered.

You might be wondering how is this different from an import export license Dubai or a normal Dubai trade license? Good question! An import export license mainly allows the movement of goods in and out of the country, but it doesn’t always let you sell them locally. A general trading license lets you do both: bring the goods in and sell them inside UAE or send them outside—it’s a full package.

Overall, a General Trading License in Dubai is the go-to option for anyone who want to run a flexible, multi-product, and scalable business in the UAE. It gives you the legal rights and the operational power to buy, sell, ship, and stock a variety of goods without jumping through too many legal hoops.

Also Read: How to Add an Activity to your Trade License in Dubai

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Benefits of Getting a General Trading License in Dubai

Getting a General Trading License in Dubai is not just a legal step—it’s actually a smart business move. There are tons of benefits that come with this license, especially when you’re planning to run a wide-scale or even small scale general trading business. Many entrepreneurs from around the world choose Dubai because it offers a mix of business-friendly rules, world-class infrastructure, and financial freedom that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Let’s go through some of the big advantages of having a General Trading License in Dubai.

1. Trade Multiple Products under One License

This is one of the biggest reasons why people go for a General Trading License in Dubai. You can sell and distribute a wide range of unrelated goods—electronics, garments, cosmetics, foodstuff, furniture, and more. There’s no need to take separate licenses for each item. This saves money and time.

2. Access to Global and Local Markets

With this license, your business is not limited to just the UAE. You can easily do import and export to other countries while also selling products in local markets. Dubai’s strategic location makes it easy to connect with Asia, Europe, and Africa—all from one place.

3. 100% Foreign Ownership

Earlier, only Free Zone companies allowed foreign ownership, but now even mainland business setup in Dubai can offer 100% ownership in many sectors, including general trading. That means you can fully control your business without needing a local sponsor in some cases.

4. No Currency Restrictions

Another great thing is that there’s no currency limitations in UAE. You can freely move funds in and out of your business accounts. For international traders, this is very useful.

5. Easy Scalability and Flexibility

Let’s say you start with one product category—like clothing—and later you want to add electronics or kitchen items. No problem. A General Trading License in Dubai allows you to scale your operations without getting into extra paperwork every time.

6. Tax Benefits

Dubai is known for its business-friendly tax policies. There is no personal income tax, and corporate tax is still relatively low compared to many other countries. This helps keep more profit in your pocket.

7. Warehouse and Office Support

Whether you’re in a Free Zone or mainland, Dubai offers excellent warehousing, logistics, and office space support. Many Free Zones even offer packages that include office, license, and visa together.

8. Strong Business Reputation

Having a legal Dubai trade license boosts your credibility with suppliers, partners, and even banks. It shows that you’re operating a registered and trustworthy company.

In conclusion, getting a General Trading License in Dubai opens up a world of opportunity. It gives you the ability to legally trade in multiple products, enjoy full ownership, benefit from tax advantages, and grow your business in one of the most dynamic markets in the world.

Also Read: How to Start a Coaching Business in Dubai

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Free Zone vs Mainland: Where to Get Your General Trading License in Dubai

When you’re planning to get a General Trading License in Dubai, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to set it up in a Free Zone or Mainland. This is something many first-time business owners don’t think too much about in the beginning, but honestly—it makes a big difference in how your business will operate, grow, and earn profits.

Let’s go deeper into understanding both options so you can decide what’s best for your general trading business.

Free Zone Setup – What’s Good About It?

Free Zones in Dubai are designated economic areas that offer foreign investors some exclusive perks. If you choose to get your General Trading License in Dubai through a Free Zone, here’s what you’ll usually get:

• 100% foreign ownership (you don’t need a local partner)
• Zero import/export taxes within the Free Zone
• Repatriation of profits and capital
• Fast and easy business setup
• No customs duties when trading within the Free Zone

There are many Free Zones like IFZA, JAFZA, and Dubai South that offer excellent general trading packages. Some even offer virtual office or shared workspace options to save cost. Also, getting a Dubai trade license through a Free Zone is usually more affordable in the early stages.

But here’s the catch—you can’t sell directly in the local UAE market. If you want to sell in Dubai or other emirates, you’ll need a local distributor or agent. That’s one thing many people don’t realise until later.

Mainland Setup – Is It Worth It?

If your main goal is to sell in the UAE market freely, then setting up your General Trading License in Dubai through the Mainland (under DED – Department of Economic Development) is the way to go.

Some benefits of Mainland setup:

• You can trade anywhere in UAE without restriction
• Unlimited visas depending on office space
• Eligibility to work with government contracts
• Physical retail shops and warehouses allowed
• Business has more local credibility

Earlier, you needed a local Emirati partner with 51% shares, but now in many sectors—including general trading—you can get 100% foreign ownership even in Mainland. That makes it even more attractive now than before.

However, the costs can be a bit higher. Office space is usually mandatory, and there are a few more compliance requirements like regular audits or renewing tenancy agreements. But for a serious long-term import-export business in Dubai, Mainland makes a lot of sense.

So Which One Should You Choose?

The answer really depends on your business goals.

• If you want to do online trade or export goods internationally, and keep costs low—then Free Zone might be your best bet.
• But if your plan is to operate on ground in UAE, sell to customers directly, or open a store—then go for Mainland.

Both Free Zone and Mainland will issue you a General Trading License in Dubai, but the rules, benefits, and costs are different. Make sure you speak to a reliable business setup consultant in Dubai who can advise based on your budget and future plans.

Whichever path you choose, your success mostly depends on planning the right structure and understanding what your license actually covers. The UAE makes it easier than many other places, but choosing the wrong jurisdiction can slow down your growth later.

Also Read: Do You Need a Business License to Sell on Amazon UAE

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Step-by-Step Process to Get a General Trading License in Dubai

Alright, so you’ve decided to move forward with getting a General Trading License in Dubai—that’s a great step! But now what? Many people get confused with the paperwork and don’t know where to begin. But honestly, the process isn’t too complicated if you break it down into steps. Let’s go through it together, step-by-step, so you know exactly what needs to be done.

Whether you’re applying in a Free Zone or Mainland, the core steps are more or less same. The small difference is just about the authority involved and some extra documents here and there.

Step 1: Finalize Your Business Activities

Before you even apply for the General Trading License in Dubai, you need to choose the type of products you want to deal in. The good news is that this license allows multiple unrelated goods, so you don’t have to stick to one category.

For example, you can trade electronics, clothing, perfumes, food items, and furniture all under the same license. Just make sure you’re not including any restricted goods like firearms, medical drugs or tobacco—those needs extra approvals.

Step 2: Choose a Business Name

Choosing a trade name is important and sometimes tricky. The name must follow UAE naming rules. Avoid using words that are offensive, religious, or names of countries or government bodies. The name must reflect your trading activity and should not be similar to any existing registered company in Dubai.

You’ll need to submit 2–3 name options, just in case your first pick is already taken. Once approved, the name will be reserved under your business profile.

Step 3: Decide Jurisdiction – Free Zone or Mainland

As we discussed in the previous section, this is a major decision. If you want full control over local trading inside UAE, go for Mainland. If your main goal is import/export or online selling, Free Zone is better and cheaper.

This decision also affects your visa options, office space requirement, and license fees.

Step 4: Submit the Application Form

Once your activity, name, and jurisdiction is clear, now it’s time to apply officially for your General Trading License in Dubai. You can do this either through a Free Zone authority, or via Dubai’s DED (Department of Economic Development) if you’re going for mainland setup.

You can submit the application either directly (which may take longer and need more effort) or via a business setup consultant who handles everything for you.

Step 5: Prepare and Submit Required Documents

Here are some of the documents you’ll probably need:

• Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
• UAE entry stamp or visa page (if available)
• Passport-sized photos with white background
• Initial approval form from DED or Free Zone
• Memorandum of Association (MoA)
• Tenancy contract (Ejari) if applicable
• NOC from sponsor (if already on residence visa)

Depending on your case, you might need more documents. For example, in some Free Zones, you don’t need tenancy contract. But in Mainland, a physical office space is mandatory to get the General Trading License in Dubai.

To know the exact cost, visit: Business License Cost in Dubai

Step 6: Pay the Fees

Once all documents are ready and approved, the next step is payment. The cost of a General Trading License in Dubai depends on the jurisdiction and number of visas you need. Free Zones usually offer package deals starting from AED 12,000 – 15,000. Mainland costs slightly more but comes with added benefits like local trading.

Also note, if you’re getting visas under your license, there will be extra charges for establishment card, e-channel registration, and medical test.

Step 7: Get Your License Issued

Once payment is done and everything is approved, you’ll receive your official General Trading License in Dubai. This means your company is now registered, and you’re legally allowed to start business activities.

After this, you can proceed to apply for investor visas, hire employees, open a corporate bank account, and start importing or selling goods.

Getting a General Trading License in Dubai might feel overwhelming at first, but once you know the steps and prepare your documents in advance, it becomes very manageable. If you’re unsure or don’t want to deal with government processes yourself, hiring a reliable business setup advisor in Dubai can save you from delays or costly errors.

Also Read: How to Get a Typing Center License in Dubai

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Cost of Getting a General Trading License in Dubai

Now that you know the process, you’re probably thinking—“How much does a General Trading License in Dubai actually cost?” That’s a very common question and honestly, there’s no fixed answer. The cost can vary depending on a lot of factors like location (Mainland or Free Zone), how many visas you want, office space requirements, and optional add-ons like warehouse, bank assistance, etc.

But don’t worry. In this section, we’ll break it down clearly so you can get an idea of how much you’ll need to invest to start your general trading business in Dubai.

1. Free Zone General Trading License Cost

If you’re planning to go with a Free Zone setup, the total cost for a General Trading License in Dubai can range anywhere between AED 12,000 to AED 25,000. It mostly depends on:

• Which Free Zone you choose (IFZA, SHAMS, JAFZA, Dubai South, etc.)
• Whether you’re applying for a visa-inclusive package
• If you want a flexi-desk or virtual office
• Number of shareholders

For example, IFZA offers one of the lowest entry-level packages starting at around AED 12,500 without visa. But if you want 1 or 2 visa allocations, the cost may go up to AED 16,000 to AED 18,000.

Also, some Free Zones do promotion offers for startups. So always check with a reliable consultant before finalizing. Because, sometimes you might miss out a good deal.

2. Mainland General Trading License Cost

When you go for Mainland, the price is usually a bit higher. The reason is simple: You get full access to local markets, physical office, and more visa flexibility.

A General Trading License in Dubai Mainland may cost you around:

• License fees: AED 10,000 to AED 14,000
• Initial approval and name reservation: AED 1,000 – AED 1,500
• Ejari (office space): Starts from AED 8,000+ depending on size and location
• MOA & Court agreements: AED 1,500 – AED 2,000
• Trade name and other admin charges: AED 2,000 approx.

So, total mainland setup can come around AED 20,000 to AED 28,000 approximately. And this is just for the license. Visa, insurance, medical and other operational costs are separate.

But yes, mainland license allows you to open retail shops, trade locally without agents, and even take part in government tenders.

3. Visa Cost (Investor and Employee)

With your General Trading License in Dubai, you can sponsor yourself as an investor and also hire employees depending on your license and office size.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Investor Visa: AED 3,800 to AED 5,000 (includes medical, Emirates ID, visa stamping)
• Employee Visa: AED 5,000 to AED 6,500 per staff
• Establishment card: AED 1,000
• E-channel registration (for mainland): AED 2,200 approx.

Note: Some Free Zones include 1 or 2 visa allocations in the license package, which makes it more budget-friendly.

4. Additional/Hidden Costs to Consider

Sometimes the cost of General Trading License in Dubai can feel higher than expected, and that’s usually because of hidden or optional costs that weren’t factored in early. Watch out for these:

• Bank account opening assistance (optional): AED 2,000–AED 4,000
• Customs registration if you plan to import/export via Dubai ports
• Annual license renewal fees (usually 90% of initial cost)
• Corporate tax advisory – especially now with UAE introducing corporate taxation
• Product registration if you are importing regulated goods (cosmetics, food, supplements etc.)

You won’t always need these, but if your business model demands it, better to include them in your cost planning.

5. License Renewal Cost

Most Free Zones and Mainland licenses are valid for 1 year. So you’ll need to renew it annually to keep your General Trading License in Dubai active. The renewal cost is generally 80% to 90% of the original license fee. Also, if you’re leasing an office, don’t forget the Ejari renewal cost.

It’s also important to make timely renewal, because if your license expires and you don’t renew, fines and penalties will start to add up. So keep track of renewal dates.

Final Thoughts on Costing

To be honest, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” price tag for getting a General Trading License in Dubai. But whether you go for Free Zone or Mainland, the key is to understand what your business actually needs.

• If you’re a solo trader or startup and want to test the market—start with Free Zone, it’s cheaper.
• If you plan to open a showroom, hire staff, and sell in local market—Mainland is a better choice.

And here’s a tip: Always work with an experienced business setup advisor. They can help you find the best deal, avoid overpaying, and make sure you don’t miss out any important fees.

Also Read: How to Start a Food Delivery Service Business in Dubai, UAE?

Check Out Our Easy Online Business Cost Calculator

Required Documents for a General Trading License in Dubai

When you’re applying for a General Trading License in Dubai, having your documents ready can save you a lot of time, stress, and back-and-forth. Many people delay their application just because they didn’t prepare the correct paperwork, or they misunderstood what’s needed. So, let’s make this part simple.

Below is a list of the most common and required documents you will need when applying for your General Trading License in Dubai—whether you choose to setup in Free Zone or Mainland.

1. Passport Copy of All Shareholders

This one’s basic but very important. A clear and valid copy of your passport is needed. If you have multiple shareholders, then passport copies of everyone must be submitted. Make sure it’s not expired or damaged.

2. Passport Size Photos

Most licensing authorities in Dubai require a recent passport-sized photo with a white background. Some even ask for digital copy. Try to wear formal or at least plain clothes. No heavy filters!

Also Read: List of Free Zones in Dubai, UAE

3. UAE Entry Stamp or Visit Visa Copy (if available)

If you’re already in the UAE, then a copy of your entry stamp or current visit/residence visa may be requested. If you’re applying from abroad, this may not be necessary.

4. Trade Name Reservation Certificate

Once your business name is approved, you will receive a name reservation certificate. This must be included in your document pack when applying for the General Trading License in Dubai.

5. Initial Approval Certificate

This is issued by the licensing authority (like DED or a Free Zone) after reviewing your application. It’s a green light that you’re allowed to proceed with the license.

6. Memorandum of Association (MoA)

This legal document defines the company’s structure, partners, and capital. In Mainland, it needs to be notarized and sometimes attested from Dubai courts. In Free Zones, the authority provides a ready-made format.

7. Tenancy Contract (Ejari) – For Mainland

If you’re registering in Mainland, then a physical office address is required. This tenancy contract must be registered with Ejari. Free Zones usually provide flexi-desks, so office lease isn’t always needed there.

Make sure all documents are clear, valid, and consistent. Even small errors in names, mismatching passport details or missing pages can delay the approval of your General Trading License in Dubai.

Some Free Zones might ask for additional forms, declarations, or NOCs depending on your nationality or business activity, so it’s always better to double check before submission.

Also Read: Trade License in Dubai : Cost & Step Involved

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Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying

Getting a General Trading License in Dubai sounds exciting, right? And it really is—until you hit some unexpected roadblocks. A lot of new business owners make small mistakes during the application process that ends up causing delays, rejections, or even extra costs.

Let’s go through some of the most common mistakes people make when applying for a General Trading License in Dubai and how you can avoid them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Jurisdiction

One of the biggest and most common mistake is not choosing the right business jurisdiction. Some people go for Free Zone because it’s cheaper, but later realize they can’t trade directly in the local UAE market. Others pick Mainland without realizing they will have more document and compliance requirements.

Always understand what your business really needs before selecting Free Zone or Mainland for your General Trading License in Dubai.

2. Incomplete or Wrong Documents

This one’s very common. People often submit old passport copies, expired visas, or documents that don’t match across forms. Even one spelling mistake in your name can cause the whole process to be delayed.

Take time to double check everything before submitting. It’s better to be safe than stuck in paperwork for weeks.

3. Assuming All Free Zones Are Same

Not all Free Zones offer the same benefits. Some might not issue a General Trading License in Dubai, or they might limit the number of visas or business activities. It’s a mistake to assume any Free Zone will fit your plan.

Check with a consultant or directly ask the Free Zone authority what’s allowed and what’s not.

4. Ignoring Product Restrictions

A General Trading License in Dubai allows you to trade in various goods, but not everything is allowed under it. Restricted items like pharmaceuticals, tobacco, medical equipment, or chemicals may require extra approvals or special licenses.

Skipping this step can lead to fines or even business suspension later.

5. Not Understanding the Cost Structure

A lot of people only look at the basic license fee, but forget to include visa costs, office rent, renewal fees, and other charges. This leads to cashflow issues down the line.

Before applying for your General Trading License in Dubai, prepare a full cost sheet to avoid any surprises.

By avoiding these simple mistakes, your journey toward launching a successful general trading business will be much smoother. If you’re unsure, work with professionals—it saves time and avoids headaches.

Also Read: 5 Best Banks in UAE for Business Accounts

Check Out Our Easy Online Business Cost Calculator ​

Why Work with a Business Setup Consultant

Starting a business in Dubai might seem simple on paper, but when it comes to the actual process of getting your General Trading License in Dubai, things can get confusing real quick. From picking the right jurisdiction to preparing the documents, there’s a lot of small steps that, if done wrong, can slow you down or cost you more.

That’s exactly why so many entrepreneurs and investors prefer to work with experienced business setup consultants like Alfa Zone Businessmen Services.

Here’s how working with the right experts can make your journey smoother and faster:

Save Time and Avoid Mistakes

If you try doing everything by yourself, you’ll likely spend hours (or days!) reading government websites, comparing Free Zones, or running around for paperwork. And even then, there’s a high chance of missing something.

Alfa Zone Businessmen Services already knows the full process. They’ve helped many business owners get their General Trading License in Dubai without delays or complications. You just tell them what you want—they handle the rest.

Get the Right Jurisdiction Advice

Not every business is suited for the same setup. Some do better in Free Zones, others in Mainland. And honestly, it’s not always easy to know what’s best for your case.

A setup consultant can guide you based on your business model, budget, and goals. Alfa Zone always gives honest advice, not just what’s cheaper, but what’s actually better for your growth.

Help with Documentation and Approvals

Let’s face it—handling legal paperwork is nobody’s favorite part. A good consultant will prepare and review all your documents, submit the forms, track approvals, and follow up on your behalf.

That means you don’t have to worry about errors, rejections, or back-and-forth communication with authorities. Everything becomes more organized.

Post-Setup Support (Bank Account, Visas, and More)

Getting your General Trading License in Dubai is just the first step. After that, you’ll need to apply for investor visas, open a bank account, possibly rent office space, and start operations.

Alfa Zone Businessmen Services also helps with all the post-license services—so you don’t feel stuck once the license is done.

If you want peace of mind and fast-track your business setup, working with a trusted consultant like Alfa Zone is honestly the smartest move you can make.

Also Read: 5 Best Banks in UAE for Business Accounts

Check Out Our Easy Online Business Cost Calculator ​

Final Thoughts: Is a General Trading License Right for You?

So, after going through all the details, the big question remains—is a General Trading License in Dubai the right choice for you?

If you’re planning to launch a Dubai trading business, sell a variety of products, or tap into both local and international markets, then the answer is most probably yes. This license is flexible, scalable, and offers great value for entrepreneurs who want to start fast and grow steadily. Whether you’re a solo investor, small business, or expanding company, it can fit a wide range of business models.

We’ve seen how a General Trading License in Dubai allows you to trade multiple goods, enjoy full ownership (in most cases), benefit from tax advantages, and get access to global shipping routes. It really is one of the most popular choices among those getting into UAE entrepreneurship today.

A few final tips: do your research, choose the right jurisdiction (Free Zone or Mainland), and work with a trusted consultant to speed things up. Starting a business in Dubai can be smooth if you have the right support and a clear plan.

So, if you’re serious about making a smart trade license decision, this could be your ideal starting point. With the right steps, your general trading insights can soon turn into a real business success.

Also Read: 5 Best Banks in UAE for Business Accounts

Check Out Our Easy Online Business Cost Calculator ​ ​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – How to get General Trading License in Dubai

For more information, visit Alfa Zone.

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