Dubai Trade License Guide: Setup & Costs 2026

You can't help but be drawn to Dubai - it's one of the world's premier business hubs. Entrepreneurs, startups, corps, and investors from all over the globe are flocking here to take advantage of the strong economy, the zero personal income tax and a super strategic location that makes it the perfect spot to launch new businesses. But before any company can even think about operating, getting a trade license in Dubai is a must.

A trade license is basically the go-ahead you need to get from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) - or from a free zone authority if you're in one - to start operating your business. Don't care if it's a consultancy you're setting up, a new shop, a manufacturing unit or importing and exporting goods - your trade license is what makes it all official.

This guide takes a close look at the trade license for the UAE, the general trading license in Dubai, the fees, the documents you'll need, the benefits, and a step-by-step guide on how to set up a business in Dubai.

What's the Lowdown on a Trade License in Dubai?

A trade license in Dubai is a permit that allows a business to operate with the authorities' blessing. Without one, no outfit - local or foreign - can go about doing any commercial, professional or industrial work.

Getting a Dubai business license ensures compliance with UAE law, protects the owners and consumers, lets you get a business bank account up and running and hire people, gives you the green light to import and export goods and generally lets you legally do business.

Licenses vary depending on the kind of business you're in.

The Different Kinds of Trade Licenses in Dubai

Dubai has a few different types of business license categories going on, but the three most widely used are:

1. Commercial License

You need this if you're in trading - buying, selling and distribution - like someone selling garb, electronics, machinery or furniture.

2. Professional License

If you're in a service-based business - like IT services, a beauty salon, marketing agency or working as a freelancer - then you need a professional license.

3. Industrial License

This one is needed if you're manufacturing, processing or producing stuff on a factory floor.

The general trading license in Dubai is a pretty popular one. It's handy because it lets you get on with a range of different activities.

What is a General Trading License in Dubai?

A General Trading License in Dubai is a very versatile license that lets companies trade in a whole lot of different goods - including items that have nothing to do with each other. This is absolutely fantastic news for entrepreneurs who are looking to set up diverse trading operations.

What can you trade with a General Trading License?

• Consumer goods, because there's always a demand for household essentials

• Electronics, which is a huge market these days

• Clothing & fashion items, because people never stop buying clothes

• Food & beverages (you will need some extra approvals for this one, though)

• Machinery & equipment, because there's always work to be done on new projects

• Beauty products, because beauty is big business

• Household items, because people are always on the lookout for something new and useful

• Building materials, because construction is always ongoing somewhere

This type of license is often the perfect fit for businesses that do a lot of importing and exporting.

General Trading License in Dubai Fees - What to Expect (2026 Update)

A lot of would-be entrepreneurs want to know what the General Trading License in Dubai fees are going to be. Well, the thing is, these costs are all over the place and can depend on a whole bunch of things - like whether you want to set up on mainland or in a free zone, how many visas you need, what kind of office space you're looking for, and what kind of business activity you're involved in.

The Total Cost of a Dubai General Trading License:

Between AED 15,000 and AED 35,000 - though it can vary depending on your specific set-up

That's what you can expect to pay for a mainland Dubai trading license. If you're setting up a free zone operation, your costs will probably fall between AED 12,000* to AED 30,000*, all depending on the package you go for.

So if you're doing some research on the web for general trading licence cost in Dubai or general trading license in Dubai cost, you'll find that the prices outlined above are a pretty accurate guide for 2025 requirements.

Why a General Trading License in Dubai Makes Sense

✔ The Freedom to trade multiple products

No need to stick to just one area - it's perfect for growing your business.

✔ Ideal for companies that import-export

Dubai's ports and airports make it a breeze to trade with anyone, anywhere in the world - whether that's Asia, Europe, Africa or the States.

✔ Free from the need for a local sponsor (most of the time)

You don't need a local partner to sponsor you for most trading activities.

✔ Fast turnaround on approvals

Typically, licenses get issued within 3-7 working days, so you can get on with business quickly.

✔ Get set up with a corporate bank account

A Dubai trade license gives you the green light to open up a UAE business bank account.

✔ Take your business to the next level

Having a Dubai trading license boosts your brand's credibility globally and opens up new opportunities for regional and international growth.

General Trading License in Dubai vs a Normal Trading License

A regular trading licence in Dubai is pretty restrictive, limiting your business to just one or two product categories - like electronics, clothing, or perfumes.

On the other hand, a General Trading License in Dubai lets you trade in a whole bunch of different items across various categories - provided you're not looking to get into something heavily regulated like medical equipment, tobacco or pharmaceuticals.

Getting a Trade License in Dubai (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Setting up a business in Dubai isn't as complicated as you might think. It's really just a matter of following a set of fairly straightforward steps.

1. Pick Your Business Activity

The type of license you need to get your business off the ground is going to depend on what kind of business you're in.

2. Choose a Business Structure

There are a few different options to choose from here, including:

• Setting up on your own as a sole establishment

• Forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company)

• Registering as a free zone company

• Setting up a branch office

3. Decide Where to Base Your Business

You've got a choice between basing your business in:

• Mainland Dubai - which gives you a bit more flexibility, but is a bit more complicated to set up

• One of Dubai's many free zones, where you can enjoy 100% ownership and some very cost-effective packages

• Offshore somewhere

4. Register Your Business Name

Just make sure the name you choose isn't already taken by someone else - and that it doesn't get you into trouble by offending public morals or violating someone elses trademark.

5. Get the Government's Initial Approval

This is just to let you know that they're not going to stand in the way of your business setup.

6. Draw Up a Memorandum of Association (MOA)

You need this for LLCs and some other business structures.

7. Sort Out an Office Space or Flexi-Desk

You'll need a physical or virtual office space before you can get your license issued.

8. Submit Your Final Application & Pay The Trade License Fee

Once the DET (Department of Economic Development) has had a chance to double-check your paperwork, they'll issue your Dubai trade license.

Why Entrepreneurs are Crazy about a General Trading License in Dubai

• You can import and export goods with minimal hassle

• Getting started is a whole lot easier than you might think

• There's a huge demand for global trading out there, and Dubai is right in the thick of it

• This place is like a hub for new markets and opportunities

• The logistics here are top-notch - you can't ask for more

Lots of US entrepreneurs are taking advantage of Dubai's super-central location and business-friendly vibe to set up shop globally.

How Much Does a General Trading License in Dubai Cost? A Breakdown

Just to be clear:

What's the General Trading License Dubai Going to Set You Back? AED 15,000 – 35,000

Prices vary depending on a few things:

• Where is your office located\

• How many shareholders do you have

• How many visas do you need

• Whether you're setting up in a free zone or on the mainland

So it turns out Dubai is one of the more affordable major cities for setting up an international business, which is a pretty big bonus.

The Bottom Line

A trade license in Dubai is what your business needs to be legit in the UAE. Whether you're starting out as a service business, launching a consultancy, or setting up some kind of import/export operation, getting a trade license in Dubai is a pretty straightforward process. And for entrepreneurs who need the flexibility to trade globally, the general trading license in Dubai is a top choice - it's flexible, scalable, and widely recognised across the world.

Getting to grips with the general trading licence cost in Dubai, what's required to comply, and what paperwork you'll need to deal with will save you a world of hassle when it comes to setting up your business. Dubai is - and continues to be - the world's go-to destination for trade and business.

How Flyingcolour Business Setup Can Help You?

Flyingcolour Business Setup has a real knack for helping business owners like you navigate the often tricky world of:

• Getting that all-important general trading license in Dubai

• Dealing with the necessary trade license UAE paperwork

• Registering, renewing, and juggling licenses

• Finding the perfect office space

• Opening a corporate bank account

• Taking care of all the investor visas & PRO services

FAQ

1. Exactly how much cash do I need to set up a trade license in Dubai?

Well, that depends on a few things, but generally it'll set you back between AED 10,000* and AED 30,000* - all depending on what kind of business you're running, how many visas you need, and what kind of office you choose.

2. Can a foreigner really own 100% of a business in Dubai?

Absolutely. Most industries allow full foreign ownership - including general trading - so you can get started without worrying about any restrictions.

3. How long does it take to get that Dubai trade license in my hands?

We're talking 3-7 business days, depending on whether you're dealing with a mainland or free zone license.

4. Is a general trading license worth it for import-export companies, then?

Yep, it's a no-brainer. If you're running an import-export firm, you'll be able to trade with the minimum amount of hassle and red tape.

5. Do I have to be living in Dubai to own a business there?

Nope, no need for that. Loads of business owners operate remotely from back home - but if you do want to live in the UAE, visas are available.

We offer advice on general trading license fees in Dubai\

Free zone & mainland company setup - we can sort that for you\

We also do tax and compliance consulting - so you don't have to stress about it

Our team knows the ins and outs of setting up a business in Dubai and will do all the hard work for you, so you can just sit back, relax and set up your business with confidence.