Starting A General Trading Business in Dubai
Starting a general trading business in Dubai involves several key steps, including understanding the regulatory environment, obtaining necessary licenses, and setting up your business infrastructure
Starting A General Trading Business in Dubai
Understand the Regulatory Environment
Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED): Oversees business registration and licensing in mainland Dubai. Dubai Free Zone Authorities: Regulate business activities in various free zones.
Choose the Right Jurisdiction
Mainland Dubai: Allows you to operate across the UAE and engage directly with the local market. Requires a local sponsor or partner (unless in specific sectors or areas where 100% foreign ownership is allowed). Free Zones: 100% foreign ownership is allowed
Decide on a Business Structure
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Allows 100% foreign ownership in certain cases, but usually requires a local sponsor with a 51% share. Free Zone Company: Offers 100% foreign ownership.
Register Your Company
Company Name: Choose a name for your company that complies with Dubai’s naming conventions and get it approved by the relevant authorities. Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
Obtain the Necessary Licenses
Trading License: Apply for a general trading license from the DED or the relevant free zone authority. This license allows you to trade a wide range of products. Additional Permits: Depending on the products you plan to trade, you may need additional.
Set Up Your Office and Facilities
Office Space: Secure an office space in Dubai. This could be in the mainland or a free zone, depending on your chosen jurisdiction. Warehousing: Set up warehousing facilities if you plan to hold inventory. This is essential for managing stock.
Cost of Company Formation
The price for setting up a company starts from just AED 5,750.
The price would differ based on the business activities, number of shareholders, office space requirements, and other factors.
Receive a cost estimate for your business now!
Explore Monthly
Payment Plans
with Selected Banks
Convert your transactions into easy and affordable monthly instalments with our selected range of banking partners. Spend a minimum of AED 1,000 on your credit card issued from any of our participating banks and repay in easy instalments over a period of 12 months.






Steps
- Make a minimum purchase of AED 1,000 using your credit card for any services provided by Bellbottom Corporate Services
- Call the banking services of any of our partner banks and request to convert your purchase into an Easy Payment Plan.
- Get the option of paying over 3, 6, 9 or 12 months
*General terms and conditions from the banks will be applicable.