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

*General terms and conditions from the banks will be applicable.

How Much?

That’s the #1 question we get asked when it comes to business setup.

That’s why we created the Business Setup Cost Calculator. Try it for free. It takes less than 30 seconds.

How Much?

That’s the #1 question we get asked when it comes to business setup.

That’s why we created the Business Setup Cost Calculator. Try it for free. It takes less than 30 seconds.