General Trading License Dubai
A General Trading License in Dubai allows you to trade in multiple product categories — electronics, FMCG, textiles, furniture, food, and more — all under a single license, without needing a separate permit for each commodity. It is one of the most commercially flexible licenses available in the UAE, and StartupGCC helps you obtain it in both free zone and mainland jurisdictions with full legal compliance.
Key Features
Trade Multiple Products Under One License
Unlike single-activity trade licenses, a General Trading License covers a broad range of goods — electronics, clothing, household items, food commodities, industrial supplies, and more. Expand your product portfolio without additional licensing costs.
Free Zone & Mainland Options
Choose a Dubai mainland general trading license for full UAE market access and government contract eligibility, or opt for a free zone license at IFZA, SHAMS, SPC, or Ajman Free Zone for lower setup costs and 100% foreign ownership.
Import & Export Rights
A General Trading License grants customs code registration, enabling you to legally import and export goods through UAE ports — including Jebel Ali (the world's largest man-made port) and Dubai International Airport.
100% Foreign Ownership
Available for all free zone general trading licenses and for most mainland commercial activities since the 2021 FDI law amendments. No local sponsor required for most product categories.
Access to UAE's Logistics Network
Dubai's world-class infrastructure — Jebel Ali Port, DAFZA, and Al Maktoum International Airport — gives general trading companies unmatched connectivity to Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Warehouse & Storage Solutions
Pair your General Trading License with a warehouse lease in Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, or Sharjah Industrial Area. We assist with warehouse sourcing and Ejari registration as part of the setup process.
How It Works
A streamlined approach designed to save you time and hassle.
Business Activity & Jurisdiction Assessment
We assess your product categories, target markets, and trading volume to recommend the optimal jurisdiction — mainland DED, IFZA, SHAMS, SPC, Ajman Free Zone, or another free zone — and advise on the exact license type and trade name.
Trade Name Registration
We register your chosen company trade name with the relevant authority (DED for mainland, or the free zone registrar) and confirm it complies with UAE naming regulations.
Initial Approval & MOA Drafting
We obtain initial approval from the licensing authority and draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) specifying shareholders, share capital, and authorised trading activities.
Office / Flexi-Desk Arrangement
A registered office address is mandatory. We arrange a flexi-desk, shared office, or warehouse with the required civil defence and municipality approvals, depending on your jurisdiction and operational needs.
License Issuance & Customs Code Registration
The General Trading License is issued by the relevant authority. We simultaneously apply for your UAE customs code through Dubai Customs or the UAE Federal Authority, enabling you to import and export immediately.
Bank Account Opening Support
We pre-screen UAE banks best suited to general trading companies and prepare your corporate KYC package — including business plan, trade finance requirements, and projected financials — to maximise approval likelihood.
Frequently Asked Questions
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