GoBusiness is a leading business setup firm, offering a comprehensive range of general trading license in Dubai to enable entrepreneurs and stakeholders establish their businesses in the mainland or free zones. With the licence as the foundation, you’ll gain the flexibility to operate in a variety of sectors and explore myriad growth opportunities.
Our value-added support services include accounting, translation, bank account setup, recruitment, procurement, marketing, and more, ensuring your business operates without interruption from day one.
From selecting the right business activity to securing the ideal location, we can help acquire the necessary trading licence and provide a range of visa services, rendering all the support you need.
Partner with our expert team to propel your trading venture to new heights.
Launch your company efficiently with a general trading licence in Dubai with budget-friendly solutions that enable you to collaborate with aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. Choose from flexible membership options—daily, weekly, or monthly. Our coworking spaces offer everything you need, from open and private workspaces, meeting rooms, and lounges to a fun zone and recording studio as well. Choose from our list of options – standard access, dedicated desk, or private office packages. Build a versatile business with a general trading licence that makes available to you optimal networking opportunities.
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A general trading licence in Dubai is an official business permit that allows companies to import, export, distribute and trade multiple product categories within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and internationally. It is issued by either the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or a free zone authority for companies operating in designated business zones.
Unlike a standard trading licence, which restricts a company to trading within a single product category, a general trading licence provides the flexibility to deal in various industries. This makes it an attractive option for businesses that seek to diversify their product range and expand their market presence.
However, certain regulated products—such as pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, alcohol, tobacco and hazardous materials—require additional approvals from the relevant authorities before they can be traded under a general trading licence.
Yes, any company engaged in importing, exporting or trading multiple product categories in Dubai must obtain a general trading licence. Operating without the prescribed licence is illegal and can result in penalties, confiscation of goods and business closure.
A general trading licence in Dubai is particularly beneficial for businesses that aim to scale their operations, as it allows them to trade across different industries without the need for multiple permits. Whether the company intends to sell goods in the UAE or engage in international trade, obtaining a general trading licence ensures legal compliance and smooth business operations.
Acquiring a general trading licence in Dubai involves several steps, from selecting the appropriate jurisdiction to securing office space and obtaining customs clearance.
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Choose the business jurisdiction
Businesses in Dubai can operate in either the mainland or a free zone and the choice depends on the company’s objectives and target markets.
Mainland:
• Allows businesses to trade directly within the UAE market.
• Enables companies to bid for government contracts.
• May involve specific restrictions depending on the business activity.
Free zones:
• Offers 100% foreign ownership.
• Provides tax incentives and industry-specific infrastructure.
• Ensures a simplified licensing process and reduced customs duties.
The choice of jurisdiction should be based on factors such as business objectives, target market and regulatory preferences.
Step 2: Select a company name
Dubai has strict business naming regulations to ensure compliance with legal and cultural guidelines.
The key considerations include:
• The name must be in Arabic or English, without special characters.
• It must not contain religious, offensive, or geographical references.
• Words such as “Universal” or “International” may be subject to additional restrictions.
• If the name includes references to countries or governments, approval from the relevant embassy is required.
To protect intellectual property, businesses can also register trademarks and franchises alongside their general trading licence in Dubai.
Step 3: Secure office space
Since trading businesses deal with physical goods, securing appropriate office or warehouse space is essential.
Businesses should consider:
• Sufficient storage capacity with high ceilings for inventory management.
• Temperature control systems to preserve product quality.
• Proximity to transportation hubs for efficient distribution.
Choosing the right office space ensures smooth business operations and long-term scalability.
Step 4: Obtain customs clearance
To import and export goods, businesses must register with Dubai Customs and obtain an import code. This ensures that shipments clear customs without delays.
The process involves:
• Registering the business with the customs authority.
• Paying any applicable import duties.
• Submitting the prescribed documentation for regulatory approval.
Proper customs clearance is essential for maintaining a seamless supply chain and avoiding regulatory complications.
A general trading licence in Dubai allows businesses to engage in the trade of various goods, except for certain regulated items that require additional approvals.
The permitted activities include:
• Electronics and consumer goods
• Apparel, textiles and fashion accessories
• Home appliances and furniture
• Cosmetics and personal care products
• Automobile spare parts
• Industrial equipment and machinery
Certain items, such as pharmaceuticals, alcohol, tobacco and chemical products, require approvals from respective authorities before they can be traded under a general trade licence in Dubai.
Yes, a general trading licence in Dubai can be obtained by applying through the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or through a free zone authority for free zone-based companies.
A general trading licence can be obtained under a Limited Liability Company (LLC) structure in Dubai. An LLC is one of the most common business structures, providing flexibility and limited liability protection to its owners.
The process for obtaining a general trading LLC licence in Dubai includes:
• Deciding on the business jurisdiction – Choose between mainland or a free zone based on business goals.
• Registering the business name – Ensure compliance with naming regulations.
• Submitting licence application – Provide the prescribed documentation to the DED or relevant free zone authority.
• Leasing office space – Secure a registered business address.
• Obtaining customs clearance – Register for an import/export code with Dubai Customs.
• Receiving the licence – Once approved, the company can commence trading activities.
A general trading LLC licence allows businesses to operate with multiple shareholders, offering greater flexibility for partnerships and investment opportunities in Dubai.
A general trading licence in Dubai is a valuable asset for businesses looking to engage in diverse trading activities across multiple industries. With the right jurisdiction, a well-chosen company name and the prescribed documentation, businesses can seamlessly set-up operations in one of the world’s most dynamic trading centres.
Understanding the licensing process, regulatory requirements and permitted activities ensures that businesses remain compliant and well-positioned for growth in the UAE and beyond.
GoBusiness provides expert guidance and streamlined processes to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Book a free consultation today and take the first step towards a successful business set-up in the UAE.
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Email: sales@gobusiness.ae
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