General Trading Setup in Dubai
Why Establish General Trading in Dubai?
A general trading license in Dubai enables entrepreneurs and commercial corporations to import, export, warehouse, and trade multiple unrelated consumer products and goods under a single umbrella license. With 100% foreign ownership now standard for commercial activities, world-class port infrastructure at Jebel Ali, and frictionless customs clearance, Dubai serves as the premier commercial re-export capital of the region.
100% Foreign Ownership
Mainland (DED / DET) or Free Zone (DMCC / IFZA / JAFZA)
3 to 5 working days
Key Strategic Advantages:
- 100% foreign – 100% foreign equity ownership with no local Emirati sponsor required
- Direct trading – Direct trading rights with local UAE mainland retailers, wholesalers, and government entities
- Fast-track Dubai – Fast-track Dubai Customs registration and Mirsal II clearance code issuance
- Access to – Access to state-of-the-art logistics at Jebel Ali Port, DWC, and Dubai International Airport
Regulatory Notice & Independent Service Disclaimer: PRO Hub Business Services LLC is an independent private corporate consultancy and document clearing services provider (Commercial Licence No. CN-1742757). We are not a government entity, nor are we affiliated with or endorsed by any UAE government agency or ministry. Official commercial trade licences, approvals, and visas are granted and issued solely by the competent UAE government authorities (such as DED, DET, ICP, MOHRE, and relevant Dubai Free Zone Authorities). Government applications and statutory filings can also be submitted directly through official government portals at statutory fees without third-party services.
Permitted Business Activities & Scope
Licensing for general trading in Dubai is tied directly to regulated activities defined by DED / DET and sector authorities. Typical permitted commercial scopes include:
Import and export of consumer, commercial, and industrial goods
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Wholesale and B2B distribution to retailers across the UAE
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Commodities trading, supply chain management, and transit re-export
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Storage, distribution, and warehouse management
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Jurisdiction Analysis: Mainland vs Free Zone
Choosing the right jurisdiction for your general trading in Dubai directly determines your trading flexibility, tax position, and facility requirements:
| Factor | Dubai Mainland | Dubai Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Market Scope | Full unrestricted trade across all 7 UAE emirates and direct bidding on government contracts | Operating inside free zone clusters, international trade, and Mainland trade via local distributors |
| Ownership Structure | 100% foreign ownership available for this sector | 100% foreign ownership guaranteed as standard |
| Corporate Tax | Standard 9% above AED 375,000 profit | 0% on Qualifying Income for QFZP entities |
| Sector Suitability | Best for distributing products directly across mainland Dubai supermarkets, shops, B2B clients, and leasing commercial warehouses anywhere in Dubai. | DMCC, IFZA, or JAFZA is optimal for international re-export, 0% qualifying corporate tax rate, and proximity to major maritime or air logistics terminals. |
PRO Hub Strategic Recommendation:
Choose DED Mainland if you intend to supply goods directly to customers inside the UAE. Choose DMCC or JAFZA if your focus is international trade and bonded warehousing.
How to Set Up General Trading - Step by Step
PRO Hub provides private corporate advisory, document preparation, and administrative liaison support throughout the setup sequence with DED / DET, municipal departments, and relevant authorities:
Select Commercial Activities
Define trade activities from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) commercial classification directory.
Trade Name Reservation
Submit and reserve your trade name in compliance with UAE naming regulations via Invest in Dubai.
Initial Approval & eMOA
Secure DED initial approval and digitally execute the electronic Memorandum of Association.
Ejari Tenancy Registration
Lease an approved commercial office or warehouse in Dubai and attest the lease via the Ejari system.
License Issuance & Customs Code
Pay DET statutory fees to receive your digital trade license and register with Dubai Customs for an import/export code.
Bank Account & Visa Processing
Open a UAE corporate bank account and process investor and employee residence visa applications.
Regulatory Approvals & Licensing Framework
Official approvals and statutory compliance depend on whether your activity is standard commercial or subject to external ministry clearance.
Competent Authorities & Regulators
DED Commercial Trade License, Dubai Customs Registration, Mirsal II Code
Note: Statutory government fees, Chamber of Commerce dues, and municipal charges are levied directly by official government entities and may vary based on business activity and legal structure.
Explore Other Dubai Business Types
Looking at alternative business lines or multi-activity licensing in Dubai? Explore other sectors:
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about setting up your business in the UAE.
Ready to Start Your
Business Journey?
Join over 3,000+ successful companies who chose PRO Hub for their UAE empire. Zero hidden costs, 100% transparency.