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            How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai, UAE

      Business License
      Dhruv Badola 29 Jul 2026 10 minutes

          Table of Contents

         1. Explained: General Trading License in Dubai
         2. Why Go for a General Trading License?
         3. Benefits of Establishing a General Trading Business
         4. How to Apply for a General Trading License in Dubai?
         5. What’s the Dubai General Trading License Cost?
         6. General Trading License in Dubai Documents
         7. 6 Common Mistakes Business Owners Should Be Avoiding When Applying
         8. Why Talk to Expert Business Setup Consultants?
         9. Feeling Ready? Get Your General Trading Business Setup with Shuraa India!
        10. FAQs

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            Table of Contents

           1. Explained: General Trading License in Dubai
           2. Why Go for a General Trading License?
           3. Benefits of Establishing a General Trading Business
           4. How to Apply for a General Trading License in Dubai?
           5. What’s the Dubai General Trading License Cost?
           6. General Trading License in Dubai Documents
           7. 6 Common Mistakes Business Owners Should Be Avoiding When Applying
           8. Why Talk to Expert Business Setup Consultants?
           9. Feeling Ready? Get Your General Trading Business Setup with Shuraa India!
          10. FAQs

          Let’s be honest, when we talk about one of the leading business hubs of the world, Dubai definitely has its spot reserved in the list. With its advanced infrastructure, pro-business regulatory environment, and prime location that connects global markets, it acts as a great avenue for international entrepreneurs, including those from India. Having said that, if you’re planning on trading a number of products under one company, getting a general trading license in Dubai is important for you.

          No matter if you’re an already established business strategising its UAE expansion or a budding entrepreneur, knowing about the process of licensing, expenses, and requirements is a must. Don’t worry! This blog covers all the necessary aspects of getting a general trading license in Dubai, UAE. Whether it is eligibility, setup expenses, and the steps that are involved, we will talk about everything.

          Explained: General Trading License in Dubai

          It’s a business license allowing businesses to engage in importing, exporting, distributing, re-exporting, storing, & trading a broad range of goods under one single license. Rather than getting different licenses for various categories of products, companies can lawfully deal in multiple products that are approved, which makes a general trading license in Dubai a realistic choice for trading operations that are diversified.

          That said, it’s a must for companies to still be compliant when it comes to the United Arab Emirates’ regulations for products that are restricted or regulated, like pharmaceuticals, some chemicals, or tobacco. This is because these might need extra approvals from the concerned authorities.

          Why Go for a General Trading License?

          If you are a business that wants to make its product portfolio diverse and you don’t want to apply for new business licenses again and again, a Dubai general trading license can offer you that flexibility. This business license is suitable for companies that are involved in:

            * Consumer goods
            * Food products (depending on the approvals)
            * Textiles as well as garments
            * Electronics
            * Appliances for the home
            * Furniture
            * Materials for building
            * Automotive accessories

          With the help of this license, it becomes possible for companies to expand into new categories of products with the changing market demand. This makes a general trading license in Dubai a future-ready choice for entrepreneurs.

          Benefits of Establishing a General Trading Business

          Selecting a general trading business setup in Dubai can offer some benefits for business owners as well as investors. Have a look:

          Trade Multiple Products

          One single license permits companies to deal in a wide variety of goods that are approved, minimising administrative complications.

          Access International Markets

          Dubai, as a city, has a prime location, providing great connectivity to the markets in Europe, Asia, as well as Africa via top-class ports & airports. This makes global trade more efficient.

          Business-Friendly Ecosystem

          The business setup procedures in the United Arab Emirates are quite straightforward. The regulations are investor-friendly & the economic atmosphere is stable, supporting company growth.

          Great Logistics Infrastructure

          The logistics ecosystem of Dubai is among the most modern ones in the world. It allows companies to move their products fast via sea, air, as well as land transport.

          How to Apply for a General Trading License in Dubai?

          When we talk about getting a Dubai general trading license, we need to understand that it involves a process that is structured in nature. Listed below are the typical steps on how business owners could finish a general trading company set-up in Dubai with success.

          Step 1: Pick a Jurisdiction for Your Business

          Depending on your operational needs, you can choose from the following Dubai jurisdictions when it comes to forming a company:

           1. Mainland
           1. Free Zone
           1. Offshore

          How to choose correctly? Make sure you consider crucial aspects like the market you’re targeting, your preferences for ownership, & plans for expansion.

          Step 2: Select the Activity of Your Business

          Make sure you’re clearly defining the products your business wishes to trade. Although your Dubai general trading license encompasses multiple goods, it is a must for all the activities to align with the license that has been approved.

          Step 3: Get Your Business a Trade Name

          Go for a trade name for your business that is unique in nature and is compliant when it comes to the United Arab Emirates’ naming rules. Don’t forget to get approval from the concerned authority.

          Step 4: Secure the Initial Approval

          As an entrepreneur, it is important for you to turn in the needed paperwork in order to get the initial approval when it comes to Dubai company incorporation.

          Step 5: Get Yourself an Office Space

          Based on the jurisdiction that you have chosen, as a business, you might need to lease premises for your office or have to go for workspace solutions that are approved.

          Step 6: Submit the Application for Your License

          This step involves finishing your paperwork process, turning in the application, & paying the fees of the government that are applicable.

          Step 7: Get Your License

          After approval, you will be issued your Dubai general trading license. This permits you to lawfully start trading activities in Dubai.

          What’s the Dubai General Trading License Cost?

          Business owners ask all the time about the Dubai general trading license cost. Although it starts at AED 12,500*, there are certain factors that affect the total investment concerning the same. These include:

            * Jurisdiction of the business
            * Fees for the government license
            * Requirements for office or warehouse
            * Visa needs
            * Shareholder count
            * Extra approvals (if relevant)

          Since different companies come with different needs, the cost of a general trading license in Dubai might differ from company to company. If you’re feeling confused, you can always work with company formation experts who can help you comprehend the costs that are applicable & guide you in selecting a setup choice that best goes with the budget that you have as well as your operational goals.

          Note: The price mentioned above is just a general estimate; for precise costing, please connect with your business setup consultants.

          General Trading License in Dubai Documents

          Prior to submitting an application for your Dubai general trading license, as a company, you should make sure that you are aware of the documents needed for the same.

          Usually, applicants require:

            * Shareholder passport copies
            * Passport-sized photos
            * Copy of the visa (if applicable)
            * Copy of the Emirates ID (for the residents of the UAE)
            * Company name approval
            * Certificate of the initial approval
            * MoA, also commonly known as the Memorandum of Association (wherever relevant)
            * Documents of office tenancy (if needed)

          Authorities might ask for additional paperwork based on the structure of your business & licensing jurisdiction.

          6 Common Mistakes Business Owners Should Be Avoiding When Applying

          Here are the 6 common mistakes you should steer clear of:

          1. Wrong Jurisdiction Selection                                                                                                                                  2. Choosing the Wrong Business Activities                                                                                                 
          Selecting a jurisdiction without taking into consideration the goals you have for your business & the market you’re targeting.                                   Picking incorrect activities for your business that aren’t aligning when it comes to the trading operations you’re intending for.         
          3. Document Inaccuracy & Incompletion                                                                                                                            4. Neglecting Additional Approvals                                                                                                        
          Turning in incomplete or inaccurate paperwork. This can cause needless delay when it comes to the approval of your license.                                      You mustn’t ignore the additional approvals that are needed for the products that are restricted or trading-regulated.                    
          5. Not Estimating the Total Setup Expenses Properly                                                                                                              6. Not Opting for Expert Guidance                                                                                                         
          You need to take into account the total setup expenses, which also includes the visas, fees for the license, office space, & other charges from the government.  Often more than not, avoiding expert guidance might lead to errors (which could have been avoided) during the process of your application.
          

          Why Talk to Expert Business Setup Consultants?

          While setting up a Dubai business is quite streamlined nowadays, figuring out the legal processes, paperwork, & regulatory approvals could turn out to be an exhaustive affair and take a lot of your time.

          Expert consultants can support you with:

            * Selecting the jurisdiction that is right for you
            * Paperwork
            * Submission of the license application
            * Visa assistance
            * Approvals from the government
            * Business banking assistance
            * Ongoing compliance assistance after you get your license

          Remember, experts help make the entire general trading business setup in Dubai easier for you while minimising the possibilities of needless hold-ups or paperwork errors.

          Feeling Ready? Get Your General Trading Business Setup with Shuraa India!

          A general trading license in Dubai permits companies to trade a number of products under a single license while experiencing the advantage of Dubai’s internationally connected business atmosphere. From picking the correct jurisdiction for your business to finishing paperwork & understanding the cost of a Dubai general trading license, precise planning is crucial to make sure that your company setup journey is smooth.

          This is why, if you’re thinking of having your very own general trading company set up in Dubai, connecting with experienced company formation experts like Shuraa India could be helpful in figuring out the process in an efficient manner, remaining compliant with the local laws, & setting up your company with confidence.

          At Shuraa India, we have experienced consultants who know the ins and outs of setting up a company in Dubai. Ever since our inception, we have successfully assisted thousands of company owners in establishing their Dubai company. To add, we believe in comprehensive assistance and are there with you every step of the way. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us at +971 502777378 or drop us an email at enquire@shuraa.in.

          FAQs

          Q1. What’s the Timeline for a General Trading License in Dubai?

          The timeline is based on your selected jurisdiction, the paperwork, & approvals needed. If all the paperwork is in order, often, your license could be issued within several business days. That said, the timelines might differ.

          Q2. How Much Is a General Trading License in Dubai?

          Although the cost starts at AED 12,500*, it is based on certain factors such as the jurisdiction of the business, fees for the government license, visa needs, etc. For an accurate general trading license cost, make sure you connect with your business setup experts.

          Q3. Can I Trust Shuraa India for the Dubai General Trading License?

          Yes. Shuraa India is among the top names in the business setup industry. With experienced consultants, thorough guidance, and transparent pricing, we can definitely help you with your general trading license in Dubai.

          Q4. Can Indian Business Owners Apply for a Dubai General Trading License?

          Yes. Indian business owners can apply for their Dubai general trading license subject to meeting the licensing requirements that apply & turning in the crucial paperwork.

          Q5. Which Authority Issues a General Trading License in Dubai?

          For Dubai Mainland, it is DET (Department of Economy and Tourism), whereas for the Free Zone s and Offshore , it is the respective licensing authorities.

          Q6. Is VAT Registration Mandatory for General Trading Companies?

          It is compulsory only if the company meets the United Arab Emirates’ applicable threshold for Value Added Tax registration or decides to go for voluntary registration.

          Q7. What Are the Penalties for Operating Without a Valid General Trading License?

          Doing so might lead to fines, legal action, or worse; your business activities might be suspended or closed.

          Q8. What Are the Activities Under a General Trading License in Dubai?

          These are listed as under:

            Activity               What It Involves                                                                                              
            Import                 Bringing goods that are approved into the United Arab Emirates from the global markets.                       
            Export                 Shipping UAE goods to the markets that are overseas.                                                          
            Distribution           Supplying goods when it comes to wholesalers, other companies or retailers.                                   
            Wholesale Trading      Selling products in large quantities to distributors or companies.                                            
            Retail Trading         Selling goods that are approved directly to end consumers.                                                    
            Storage & Warehousing  Storing the goods in warehouses prior to selling or distributing them.                                        
            E-commerce Trading     Selling products that are approved via online platforms, provided they comply with the regulations that apply.
            Re-Exporting           Importing goods that are approved into the United Arab Emirates & exporting those goods to another country.   
            

            Important note: Some products that are regulated, like pharmaceuticals, tobacco, chemicals, & certain food items, might need extra approval from the concerned authorities.

                  About the author

                  Dhruv Badola

                  A professional content writer and UAE business advisor, Dhruv Badola takes a keen interest in writing about corporate regulations and company setup in the UAE. He simplifies complex legal and business jargon for Indian entrepreneurs, keeping them up to date with the UAE's evolving business ecosystem. With crucial insights and practical advice, Dhruv ensures that nothing stops Indian businesses from successfully launching, growing, and thriving in the UAE market.

                  View all posts

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