Business setup · Trade & commerce
How to Get a General Trading Licence in Dubai & the UAE
A general trading licence in the UAE is a trade licence that lets a company buy and sell a broad range of non-restricted goods under one licence, instead of listing each product category separately. It is issued on the mainland or in free zones; restricted goods such as food, medicines and chemicals still need clearance from the relevant authority.
Fact-checked against official sources on · EH Management Consultancy LLC
At a glance
Key facts
- Scope
- Broad range of non-restricted goods
- Restricted goods
- Need product-specific approvals
- Customs
- Customs registration needed to import or export
- Mainland
- Sell directly to UAE customers
- Free zone
- Import, re-export and regional distribution
What do you need to know first?
Traders choose general trading when they expect their product range to change or grow, because a specialised trading licence limits you to named categories. The trade-off is that general trading can carry higher fees and closer bank scrutiny, so it is worth it only when you genuinely trade across categories.
If you import or export, you also need a customs registration with the relevant emirate’s customs authority. Mainland companies can sell to UAE customers directly; free zone traders, especially in customs-bonded zones such as JAFZA, are set up for import, re-export and regional distribution.
Regulators
Which approvals are needed?
Where to set up
Which jurisdictions suit this activity?
Visas: Trading companies often need warehouse staff and drivers as well as office staff. Visa capacity depends on office or warehouse size.
Process
Step by step
-
01
Define your product range
Decide between general and specialised trading.
-
02
Check restricted goods
Identify any products needing extra clearances.
-
03
Choose jurisdiction and premises
Office, warehouse or both.
-
04
License and register with customs
Obtain the licence and customs code.
-
05
Open banking and VAT
Open a corporate account and register for VAT when required.
Checklist
What should you prepare before applying?
Settle these before you pay any government fees.
- 01
List every product category you expect to trade in the next two years.
- 02
Flag controlled goods that need extra approvals.
- 03
Decide whether you need a warehouse, an office or both.
- 04
Prepare supplier and buyer contracts for the bank.
- 05
Register with customs before your first shipment.
Frequently asked
Questions about general trading in the UAE
What is the difference between general and specialised trading?
A general trading licence covers a broad range of non-restricted goods. A specialised licence covers only the product categories named on it, usually at lower cost.
Do I need a customs code to trade?
Yes, if you import or export goods. Customs registration is made with the relevant emirate’s customs authority after licensing.
Can a free zone general trading company sell in Dubai?
It can sell to free zone and international buyers. Selling to mainland customers needs a distributor, a mainland branch or another permitted route.
Are any goods excluded from general trading?
Yes. Restricted goods such as food, medicines, chemicals and other controlled items need approval from the relevant authority.
Is a general trading licence more expensive than a specialised one?
Usually, because it covers a broader range of goods. If you trade in only one or two categories, a specialised trading licence is often enough.
Can a general trading company also provide services?
Only if the services are added as separate licensed activities. A trading licence covers buying and selling goods, not services.
Official sources
Verify it yourself
Regulators update their rules. These are the authoritative references behind this guide.
Related
Services and guides
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