How To Start an Import Export General Trading Business in Dubai in 2026

Starting an Import Export General Trading Business in Dubai in 2026

Dubai is more or less the most powerful trading hub in the world. That's because it has a super strategic location, top-notch infrastructure and business-friendly rules that make starting an import export business in Dubai a smart move. You can trade just about anything from electronics to food products to textiles to machinery to consumer goods and you've got access to all the global markets you could ever need.

This guide is going to walk you through the how to start an import export general trading business in Dubai in 2026, all nice and easy to follow. You'll learn all about the licenses you need, the costs involved, the legal requirements and just how to get your business up and running smoothly.

Why Dubai is the Ideal Place to do Import Export & General Trading?

Dubai is right at the crossroads of Asia, Europe and Africa, which makes it a no-brainer as a gateway to international trade. And the UAE government really does back trading businesses with simple processes and modern logistics facilities to boot.

Reasons to Choose Dubai for Import Export Business

• World-class ports like Jebel Ali Port are right on hand
• Two major international airports make it easy to get in and out
• Global shipping routes are right on your doorstep
• Don't pay a penny in personal income tax
• Corporate tax is also super competitive
• And of course, there are loads of free zones for trading businesses

Because of all these advantages, import export company setup in Dubai just keeps growing and growing.

What is an Import Export General Trading Business?

An import export general trading business lets you do all of the following:

• Bring in goods from other countries
• Send goods out to international markets
• Trade multiple different product categories all under the one license

A general trading license in Dubai gives you so much flexibility you can deal in all sorts of different products without being stuck in just one category.

Import Export Business in Dubai: Mainland Vs Free Zone

Before you can get that license, you've got to decide where to set up your company.

Starting an Import Export Business on the Mainland

• You can trade directly within the UAE market
• Work with government entities
• You're allowed to work with local customers

Free Zone Import Export Business

• You can have 100% foreign ownership
• You get tax and custom benefits
• It's perfect for international trading

Both options are super popular for Dubai trading business setup in 2026, and the right choice is going to depend on just what you're trying to achieve with your business.

Types of Trading Licenses Available in Dubai

1. Import Export Trading License in Dubai

This license lets you specifically import and export certain goods.

2. General Trading License in Dubai

This one is the most flexible of all - you can trade all sorts of different, unrelated goods under one license.

If you want long term growth, most entrepreneurs are going to prefer a general trading license in Dubai.

Step by Step Guide: Setting up an Import Export Company in Dubai (2026)

Step 1: Decide on Your Business Activities

What do you want to trade in?

• Electronics
• Food and beverage products
• Textiles
• Machinery
• Consumer goods

What you choose will determine the type of license you need and the approvals you'll need to get.

Step 2: Choose the Right Place for Your Business

Are you going to be on the mainland or in a free zone?

This choice will affect the ownership rules, office requirements, and customs procedures you'll need to follow.

Step 3: Pick a Trade Name

Your company name needs to be unique and follow the rules in the UAE.

You shouldn't include any restricted words, and approval usually takes just a couple of working days.

Step 4: Apply for an Import Export Trading License in Dubai

You'll need to send off your documents to either the Department of Economy and Tourism (on the mainland) or the Free Zone Authority.

Documents typically include your passport, visa (if you need one), and business plan (if needed).

Step 5: Register With Dubai Customs

You'll need to get registered with Dubai Customs and get an importer/exporter code before you can start importing or exporting goods.

This is a crucial step for import export business in Dubai to run smoothly.

Step 6: Get Office or Warehouse Space

You'll need a physical office space on the mainland, or a flexi desk, office or warehouse in a free zone.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

You'll need to pick a UAE bank and send them your trade license, company documents, and shareholder details.

Getting bank approval may take up to 3 weeks.

Step 8: Get Your Business Up and Running

Once all your approvals are through, you can start importing and exporting goods, working with freight forwarders, and following customs and VAT rules.

Costs to Start an Import Export Business in Dubai (2026)

Here's a rough idea of what you can expect to pay:

Expense Estimated Cost (AED)

• Trade license: 15,000* - 30,000*
• Customs registration: 1,000* - 2,000*
• Office or warehouse: Varies
• Visa costs: 3,000* - 5,000* per visa
• Bank account setup: Depends on bank

Keep in mind these costs can vary depending on the jurisdiction and size of your business.

VAT & Compliance for Import Export Businesses

If your turnover exceeds the threshold, you'll need to register for VAT. VAT applies to imports and some exports. You'll need to keep proper records to avoid delays and penalties. Staying compliant is super important.

Advantages of an Import Export General Trading Business in Dubai

• Access to all the global markets you could ever need
• Access to international shipping routes
• Business-friendly regulations to ease your way
• The opportunity to scale globally from day one
• And flexible trading license options available

All make Dubai trading business setup 2026 an incredibly attractive proposition for entrepreneurs.

Challenges You Need to Be Aware Of

• Opening a bank account can take some time to get sorted out
• Customs documentation has to be spot on, no room for error
• There are certain products that require special approvals to sell
• And don't even think about skipping compliance requirements - they have to be followed to the letter

Working with consultants who know what they are doing can help steer you clear of these issues.

How Can Flyingcolour Business Setup Help You?

Flyingcolour Business Setup provides comprehensive support to help you set up an import export general trading business in Dubai from scratch.

How Flyingcolour® Assists You:

• We guide you on choosing the best business activity for your needs
• We'll help you with setting up a mainland or free zone company
• We take care of getting your import export trading license in Dubai
• We can assist with obtaining a general trading license in Dubai, UAE
• We'll get you registered with Dubai Customs
• We've got your back when it comes to opening a corporate bank account
• We'll help you with visa and compliance issues

Flyingcolour® means you get the expert guidance you need from start to finish, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes along the way.

Final Thoughts

Starting an import export business in Dubai in 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to tap into the global market. With the right planning in place, a suitable licence and some professional support, you can build a trading business that's both scalable and profitable.

Choosing the right setup, and working with consultants who know their stuff, ensures your import export company setup in Dubai goes smoothly, is compliant and is ready for whatever the future holds.

FAQs – Import Export General Trading Business in Dubai

1. Do I need a general trading license if I plan to start an import export business in Dubai?

If you plan on trading multiple products, a general trading license in Dubai, UAE is probably your best option.

2. Can foreigners start an import export business in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can own 100% of the business in free zones, and many mainland setups are available to them too.

3. How long does it take to get an import export trading license in Dubai?

It usually takes anywhere from 7 to 14 working days, depending on who needs to sign off on it.

4. Is Dubai Customs registration a must for import and export activities?

Yes, you do need to get registered with Dubai Customs for all import and export activities.

5. What is the minimum cost to start an import export business in Dubai?

The starting cost varies depending on the setup you choose, but it generally starts from around AED 15,000.

Therefore, to learn more about Starting an Import Export General Trading Business In Dubai In 2026, Book a free consultation with one of the Flyingcolour Business Setup team advisors.

The article was published on 10/2/2026. It is important to note that the federal policies and updates mentioned may have changed since then. For the most current information, please contact our consultant!