Expert General Trading License in Dubai with Virtue Corporate Services
A General Trading License in Dubai is your gateway to conducting multiple commercial activities under one trade license. Whether you’re importing, exporting, or distributing a wide range of goods locally or internationally, this license offers maximum flexibility and scalability.
Experience efficient and streamlined general trading license setup in Dubai with Virtue Corporate Services—your dedicated partner for professional business licensing and end-to-end establishment solutions.
At Virtue Corporate Services, we help entrepreneurs, investors, and trading companies obtain a general trading license in Dubai with full legal compliance, strategic location choice, and end-to-end setup services.
Let Virtue Corporate Services help you navigate the process with ease. Get started on your General Trade Licensing in Dubai Today!
Key Stats – GENERAL TRADE LICENSE in DUBAI
Dubai’s general trading sector continues to thrive, with strong support from government initiatives, tax-friendly policies, and world-class logistics infrastructure.
This license enables trading in diverse products such as electronics, clothing, furniture, FMCG, and more—without needing separate licenses for each category.
Benefits of a General Trading License in DUBAI
100% foreign ownership in free zones and some mainland options
Trade in multiple goods under one license
Available in both mainland and free zone jurisdictions
Access to global markets via Dubai’s ports and logistics hubs
Import/export rights with customs code registration
Eligible to open corporate bank accounts in the UAE
Option to hire staff and sponsor employee visas
Tax advantages including 0% corporate tax in free zones
Scalable for e-commerce, retail, & wholesale business models
Mainland vs. Free Zone General Trading License
| Document | Mainland License | Free zone License |
|---|---|---|
Ownership |
Up to 100% foreign ownership (depending on activity) |
100% foreign ownership |
Trade Scope |
Can trade across UAE and internationally |
Limited to free zone and international markets |
Office Requirement |
Mandatory physical office space |
Flexi-desk or virtual office options available |
Visa Eligibility |
Unlimited (based on office size) |
Limited (based on package) |
Cost |
From AED 30,000+ |
From AED 11,500 to AED 25,000+ |
Note: Virtue helps you choose the best option based on your product range, market goals, and budget.
At Virtue Corporate Services, we help you choose the best option based on your product range, market goals, and budget.
Need help deciding between free zone and mainland licenses? We’ve got you covered!
Cost of Obtaining a General Trade License in Dubai
The cost of a general trading license in Dubai depends on your chosen jurisdiction, office requirements, and visa needs.
Required Documents for General Trading License
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
Passport Copies of Shareholder(s) |
Identity verification and compliance |
Visa copy or UAE entry stamp |
Residency or recent entry proof |
Passport-size photographs |
For license and immigration records |
Business name & activity list |
For license issuance and approval |
Office address/tenancy contract |
Mandatory for mainland licenses |
NOC (if UAE resident) |
Required from current sponsor/employer (if applicable) |
Note: Virtue Corporate Services handles documentation, approvals, and submissions, ensuring a hassle-free setup within a few working days.
Start Your Trading Business with Virtue Corporate Services
From product registration to customs code issuance, we take care of every step in your general trading license setup in Dubai. Our tailored packages, expert consultants, and local know-how ensure you’re ready to trade fast and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
A general trading license allows businesses to trade in multiple, unrelated products under one license. With this license, you can import, export, store, distribute, and sell goods both locally and internationally. It’s ideal for companies dealing in fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, garments, and other diverse categories.
While both are types of commercial licenses, a general trading license covers a wide range of unrelated products (like electronics, food, clothing, etc.) under a single license. A standard commercial license, on the other hand, typically covers related product categories or specific activities.
Entrepreneurs, import-export businesses, wholesalers, and e-commerce companies that deal in multiple product lines benefit most from a general trading license. It’s also ideal for international businesses looking to distribute goods across the UAE and GCC region.
Yes. You can obtain 100% foreign ownership of a general trading company in most Dubai Free Zones, and for many activities under the Dubai mainland jurisdiction. Recent UAE reforms have removed the need for local sponsorship in most sectors.
The cost varies depending on the jurisdiction and visa needs:
- Free Zone license: Starting from AED 11,500
- Mainland license: Typically from AED 30,000
Additional fees apply for visas, office space, and customs registration. Virtue Corporate Services offers transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Yes, if you’re setting up in the Dubai mainland, you must have a physical office or warehouse. In free zones, flexi-desk or shared office options are available, making it more cost-effective for startups.
- Mainland license holders can freely trade within the UAE without restrictions.
- Free zone companies can sell in the UAE through authorized local distributors or agents or by obtaining dual licenses where applicable.
In most cases, a general trading license can be issued within 3 to 5 working days, depending on documentation, name approval, and government clearances. Our team at Virtue ensures fast-track processing.
Yes. If you’re planning to import or export goods, you will need to register with Dubai Customs and obtain a customs code. This applies to both free zone and mainland companies. We assist you with this as part of our service.
We offer:
- Full support for mainland and free zone setups
- Assistance with license application, activity selection, and office leasing
- Customs code registration
- Visa services and bank account setup
- Transparent pricing and no hidden costs
Our experience, local expertise, and client-first approach make us the trusted partner for your trading business in Dubai.