General Trade License in Dubai, UAE

UAE’s infrastructure, economy, and connectivity are among the best in the world, offering a wide range for entrepreneurs and investors to flourish in their choice of interest. A general trade license in Dubai is one such ticket that can open the doors of this rich land for you to establish a business and reach out to global markets. From the UAE, to the world, you can make a strong international presence by getting a general trading license in the UAE.

In this blog, we will be looking at the powers of this general trading license in Dubai, along with the process of getting one. But before any of this, let us start by first understanding the meaning of this license.

What is a General Trade License in Dubai?

Furniture, electronics, apparel, and industrial equipment are just a few of the many goods that are imported, exported, and traded in the United Arab Emirates as part of general trading. A general trading license enables companies to trade in a number of product categories across different or same industries. Certain products, such as automobiles, alcoholic beverages, and medical supplies, are subject to limitations and necessitate particular licenses in order to be imported or exported.

A general trading license is one of the most popular UAE trade licenses chosen by a large number of global entrepreneurs. It gives the holders the privilege to trade locally as well as across a wide range of international markets.

Why to get a General Trading License in Dubai?

There are various benefits to your business in getting a general trading license in Dubai. These benefits can be summed up with the following points:

• Import, Export, and Local Trade: Bring in a variety of products, sell them locally, or resell them to make money.
• Low Tax Rates: Dubai is a desirable location for business since it has among of the lowest tax rates in the world.
• Wide Variety of Things: Excluding restricted industries, trade in a wide variety of things with the general trade license in Dubai.
• Strategic Location: Your company is well-positioned for success thanks to Dubai’s prominent position on the map of international trade.
• Top-Tier Infrastructure: Take use of Dubai’s top-notch infrastructure, which includes logistics, warehouses, effective ports, and seamless customs procedures.
• Broad Support Network: Gain access to a network of companies that provide legal, marketing, finance, warehousing, logistics, and other crucial support services.
• Business-Friendly Environment: Take advantage of Dubai’s open trading environment and pro-business government regulations.
• High Demand Market: Make sure there is a ready market for your imported goods by catering to Dubai’s affluent populace and thriving economy.

How to get a General Trading License in Dubai?

To get your general trade license in Dubai, there is a pre-defined process that you will be required to follow. You should be ready with the documents before you apply for the process; you can get detailed information on these documents from Dubiz Business Setup. The steps involved in the process are given below.

1. Choose business activities:

To begin, choose the precise tasks that your company will perform. Make sure the activities you choose fall under the permitted list of DED.

2. Choose Your Location:

You can start your general trading business on Dubai mainland, freezone or offshore. You must choose the suitable jurisdiction first.

3. Decide company structure:

You must decide the legal form for your business. It can be a sole establishment, a limited liability company (LLC), branch company, etc.

4. Trade name reservation:

Select a distinctive and suitable name for your business that conforms with UAE laws. Get the name registered as well.

5. Get approvals:

Send the request for initial approval of your business. Based on business nature, you may have to secure additional approvals.

6. Find office space:

Choose the office space and get the tenancy contract attested by Ejari.

7. License application:

Next, you must apply for the general trading license with the respective authority. Make sure to submit the filled application form and the documents needed. You must also clear the necessary license fees. Your trade license will be issued to you within two hours of your approval. Please note, processing time may vary based on your business case.

8. Entry Permit:

To expedite the visa application procedure, sign up for e-channel services. Obtain an entry permit, which is a 60-day temporary visa. You can complete this online or when you get to the UAE.

9. Status Change:

Depending on your nationality, activate your status change either within the United Arab Emirates or upon re-entry.

10. Register for an Emirates ID:

After undergoing a medical examination that includes X-rays and blood testing, apply for your Emirates ID card as soon as you have the results. This card is necessary for a number of activities, including opening bank accounts and renting real estate.

Requirements for General Trade License in Dubai

For your identity verification while issuing a general trade license in Dubai, you will have to be ready with the following documents:

• Photocopy of your passport
• Passport-size photographs
• Your UAE residence visa
• Your Emirates ID

The other documents will vary depending on the business structure in UAE, shareholders, jurisdiction, and many other aspects. To get the details of these questions, you can get in touch with Dubiz Business Setup.

Difference between General Trading License and Trade License in UAE

The difference between a trade license and a general trade license in UAE can be understood through their scope and meaning. A trade license in UAE is a legal authorization that is given to businesses to operate legally within the nation. Businesses of all sizes, nature and industry must hold the right trade license to conduct their business activities legally in UAE.

A trade license has various types: commercial license, professional license, industrial license, tourism license, freelance license, etc. On the other hand, a general trading license is a specific category that comes under trade license which allows businesses to import, export and trade multiple goods and products like clothes, accessories, furniture and much more, excluding the restricted categories, in the nation.

General Trade License Cost in UAE

The general trading license cost in RAKEZ free zone starts at AED 6,000* and in Ajman freezone, the price would start from AED 5,500*. The costs can vary based on the location you choose. Also, there are other expenses to take into account. The following variables will affect the overall cost of your general trade license:

• Business activity type
• Organizational structure
• Visa quota
• The number of business associates
• Office space and storage facilities

Contact Dubiz Business Setup to find out the precise price and the steps involved in forming a company in the United Arab Emirates.

Get your general trade license in Dubai with Dubiz 

If you are planning to start a new business in Dubai, Dubiz business setup is the best place to know the ins and outs of the process. We will not only help with the company formation in UAE but also with trade license renewal Dubai, UAE visa renewal, opening a business bank account, and everything in the middle. You can get in touch with us to know about the details of your idea of a business.

Contact us at:

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the cheapest general trading license in UAE?

The cheapest general trading license in UAE will cost around AED 5,500* in Ajman freezone. Please note that what would be most affordable for you depends on various factors pertaining to your business in Dubai like the location, size, and trading type.

2. Which authority deals with a general trading license in Dubai mainland?

The Department of Economic Development of the government of Dubai grants permits for this type of commerce. They describe it like this: Businesses engaged in general commerce import items from other locations, sell them, and occasionally resell them. The UAE government has approved all of this. Alternatively, in Dubai freezones, the respective freezone authority may issue the license.

3. What is the minimum age to get a UAE general trading license?

The minimum age required to apply for a business license is one important rule that is frequently contested. To apply for a business license in the United Arab Emirates, a person must be at least 18 years old. Please check the DED website for the latest requirements.

4. Can a person living outside of UAE, get a general trade license in Dubai?

Indeed. “Can I get a UAE trade license without physically being in the country?” is a question that many entrepreneurs have when considering expanding their businesses to the United Arab Emirates. The answer is yes; however, even if you can do it yourself, it can be a difficult and complicated process.

5. Is a trade license enough to start a retail business?

A trade license is necessary for all manufacturing and trading enterprises. Generally speaking, a trade license is required for all small, medium, and big manufacturing industries/factories, stores, food businesses, health care businesses, hazardous businesses, wedding venues, retail stores, etc.

6. What are UAE general trading license activities?

Activities related to retail and wholesale come under UAE general trading license. Businesses can sell and distribute any goods, both inside and outside the United Arab Emirates, with a general trade license, with the exception of things that are prohibited and require permission from the appropriate authorities.