General Trading License in UAE
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UAE General Trading License
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In Dubai, multiple types of trading licenses are available. Now, depending on the nature of your business, you can select the exact license to carry out your commercial operations legally. A general trading license is a business permit delivered to companies involved in the import and export of goods and services across numerous industries. A general trading license is required if you are a foreign national and want to launch a trading business that trades in different products.
Key Benefits of a General Trading License in UAE
A general trading license in the UAE offers a host of benefits.
- Trading multiple products: The general license allows you to trade in product categories across industries, offering more opportunities to scale your business at various levels.
- Tax benefits: Licensed businesses enjoy special tax rates and exemptions, which can give your business a competitive edge. Many goods traded under the general license are exempt from VAT in Free zones.
- Flexibility and diversification: It provide flexibility to adapt to market trends, discover new revenue streams and eventually grow your commercial venture. With a general trading license, you can involve in several commercial activities, including import, export, re-export, distribution, and storage services.
- Credibility and recognition: A general trading license establishes your business’s authority. Many global enterprises prefer companies with a trading license in Dubai.
- Extensive business opportunities: Dubai offers world-class infrastructure and extensive market exposure, thus enabling businesses to grow and expand. Its strategic location and proximity to the markets of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia make it a global commercial hub. A UAE general trading license offers substantial opportunities for business growth.
Types of Business Activities Under General Trading License
The categories of businesses covered under the general trading licenses are:
Import and export
Businesses involved in import and export from foreign countries.
Wholesale and retail trading businesses
These include companies that sell to other businesses as well as to individual customers.
Multiple products
A general trading license applies to companies that trade in diverse product categories, such as textiles, electronics, food products, and more.
E-commerce
Online companies selling goods and services.
Storage and distribution
Companies offering storage and distribution services should also obtain a general trade license.
1
Choose jurisdiction
Free zone companies allow 100% foreign ownership and offer a lower tax rate in several cases.
2
Company name registration
Choose your company’s name to make the initial application. As a general rule, avoid using religious, offensive, and political terms. The name must pass the duplicity check before getting approval.
3
Lease/rental agreement of office space
You must submit the lease or office space rental agreement to apply for the license.
4
Obtaining customs clearance
You must submit proof of customs clearance from the relevant authority. It includes the import code received from the customs department after the payment of applicable fees.
5
Submit application
A general trading license in Dubai can be obtained online or offline. You must download the application form and submit it along with the required documents to get the license.
General Trading License In UAE Requirements
To obtain a general trading license, you must apply to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the pertinent Free zone authority along with all the required documents. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of all the necessary documents.
- The complete application form, downloaded from the DED or the Free zone Authority website
- Passport copies of the business owners and shareholders
- Copies of residence visa if the owner or shareholders are already residing in the UAE
- Emirates ID copy if you are a UAE resident
- No objection certificate from the employer if any of the shareholders are currently employed in the Emirates
- Trade name reservation certificate to prove the desired trade name is reserved with the DED or the free zone authority
- The lease agreement of your business premises
- A proof of payment of the license fee
- A detailed business plan clearly outlining the business activities
Cost of General Trading License in UAE
The cost of a UAE general trading license depends on whether the company is located on the mainland or in a free zone. Typical fees include:
Mainland license
| Trade Name Reservation | AED 620 |
| Initial Approval | AED 245 |
| Memorandum of Association | AED 540 |
| DED License + Activity Fee | AED 11,000 + AED 15,000 |
| Establishment Card | AED 575 |
| Investor Visa Service Charges | AED 3,500 |
| Service Charges | AED 2,000 |
| Total | ~AED 33,480 |
Freezone license
| IFZA One-year License (including the cost of visa and immigration card) | AED 14,900 |
| Total Setup Costl | AED 22,450 |
| Other Free Zone Packages | AED 6,000–12,900 |
Start Your Trading Business in UAE with RichMan Associate
Establishing a business in the UAE involves numerous steps. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the intricacies of the process, it is best to hire a trusted licensing service. At RichMan Associate, we act as your advocate, helping you launch your business. We bring clarity, speed, and personalized support to help you start smart and scale fast.
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FAQs
What is a general trading license?
A general trading license enables the business to engage in the import, export, and trading of a wide range of goods and services. The UAE government issues various types of licenses for commercial businesses to operate in Dubai and the UAE.
Who can apply for a general trading license?
Obtaining a trading license is a mandatory requirement. Companies and individuals, both local and foreign, can apply for a general trading license. Foreign entities can register under a mainland license or as UAE free zone companies with 100% foreign ownership.
Can I trade multiple types of goods under a single license?
A general trading license authorizes you to trade in abundant products, including electronics, food items, garments, and more.
How long does the registration process take?
On average, the process takes seven to ten business days, assuming all documentation is in order and no additional accords are obligatory.
