General Trading License Dubai, UAE
The UAE has been a famed trading location for many years. From its early days as a fishing village and pearl trading hub, to the modern day where businesses trade everything from apparel and construction materials to jewellery, technology, and more.
There are many reasons for the country’s popularity as a trading location. Its strategic position with direct access to the world’s largest markets is a major plus; as is our 0% tax regime on both corporate and personal income.
And when you start a UAE trading business with the help of Meydan Free Zone, the benefits continue. Free zone businesses can take advantage of 100% customs tax exemption, capital and profit repatriation, and zero currency restrictions.
Whatever goods you wish to trade, our experts in business setup in Dubai will have your business up and running in no time.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to apply for the UAE general trading license, including:
What is a general trading license?
The general trading license is an extremely flexible type of trade license which allows the holder to trade a number of similar or disparate goods. With a single license you can trade everything from auto parts to wastepaper – and most things in between.
In fact, the general trading license allows you to trade almost anything you wish. The only notable exceptions are goods within restricted industries such as alcohol, oil, tobacco, and weapons.
How to get a general trading license in Dubai, UAE
Before applying for any trade license in the UAE, you should familiarise yourself with the country’s business landscape. The easiest way to do this is to book a consultation with Meydan Free Zone.
While the UAE license application process is relatively straightforward, it does differ slightly from other countries when it comes to starting a business.
The first step we will guide you through is the choosing of your company name. The UAE has a set of naming parameters that you’ll need to stick to. But don’t worry, all are straightforward and largely common sense.
Essentially, you should avoid blasphemous and offensive language and names of well-known organisations. There are also a few more rules which we will cover in your initial consultation.
You will also need to outline your business activities and align them to a pre-published list. There are thousands to choose from, so you’re sure to find ones that match up.
While you are free to trade numerous goods under the general trading license, they must all be listed on your application. But don’t worry, if you choose to diversify you can add more trading activities at a later date.
When making your application, you will need to submit an application form containing details about your business and its shareholders, as well as proof of address and identification.
As the general trading license is instant, we can help you complete this application process online in around 30 minutes.
If you are intending to operate your business from the UAE, you will also require a visa. As part of this process, you’ll need to undergo a fitness test, blood test, and chest x-ray. You can also sponsor the visas of others such as dependent children and parents, your spouse, and any domestic staff.
Finally, if your business is getting paid in the UAE, you’ll need a UAE bank account. Meydan Free Zone can help with this step too, advising on the right bank for your circumstances.
General trading license activities
Activities under general trading license in Dubai include:
General trading license cost in Dubai
The cost of your UAE general trading license will depend on where you choose to set up.
In almost all cases, setting up in a free zone is the most cost-effective way to start a business in the UAE. So, if you’re looking to find a low-cost general trading license in Dubai, then a free zone is the place to look.
When setting up in a free zone, you can expect to pay in the region of AED 12,500-23,600 – in comparison with AED 30,000-40,000 when setting up in the mainland. Many free zones also offer license packages inclusive of visa costs.
Get a general trading license in Dubai with Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone is a thriving, centrally located economic district with one of the most prestigious business addresses in the region.
We offer our businesses a host of innovative investment and lifestyle benefits, in a secure regulated environment that empowers productivity. And we can help you join them too.
Our expert team can assist across the entire company formation journey, from registering your company name to managing your license and visa applications.
To find out more, visit our website, or get in touch with us via?[email protected] or 800FZ1.
If you prefer, you can visit us at Meydan Free Zone Business Centre, Mezzanine Floor, Meydan Hotel, Meydan Rd, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai, UAE.