General Trading License in the UAE
The Most Versatile License for Import, Export, and Distribution
A General Trading License is one of the most sought-after and versatile commercial licenses in the UAE. It authorizes a company to trade in a wide, often unrestricted, range of products, making it ideal for businesses involved in import, export, and distribution across multiple commodity categories. This flexibility eliminates the need to obtain separate licenses for each product line, providing significant operational and cost efficiencies. T4ME provides expert guidance and end-to-end services for obtaining a General Trading License in the UAE, whether on the Mainland or in a Free Zone.
We help you understand the requirements and navigate the application process to get your trading business operational quickly.
What is a General Trading License?
A General Trading License permits a company to engage in the buying and selling of a broad spectrum of goods. Unlike a specific trading license (e.g., “Foodstuff Trading” or “Electronics Trading”), a General Trading License typically covers multiple categories, such as:
- Electronics and electrical equipment
- Textiles and garments
- Building materials
- Machinery and equipment
- Foodstuffs (often requires additional approvals)
- Consumer goods
- And many more…
Note: Certain restricted items (e.g., pharmaceuticals, alcohol, weapons) are excluded and require special permits.
Mainland vs. Free Zone General Trading License
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Feature
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Mainland General Trading
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Free Zone General Trading
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|---|---|---|
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Market Access
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Can trade directly with any business or consumer in the UAE.
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Primarily for international trade; direct trade with UAE mainland market is restricted.
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Ownership
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100% foreign ownership available for most trading activities.
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100% foreign ownership.
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|
Government Contracts
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Eligible to bid on government tenders.
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Generally not eligible.
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Office Requirement
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Requires a physical office with Ejari.
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Flexible options, including virtual offices in some zones.
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Capital Requirement
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May have minimum capital requirements depending on the emirate.
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Varies by Free Zone.
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Requirements for a General Trading License
While specific requirements vary, common prerequisites include:
- A clear business plan outlining the types of goods to be traded.
- Passport copies of shareholders.
- Proof of office space (for Mainland).
- Initial approval from the licensing authority.
- For Mainland, additional approvals from relevant ministries (e.g., Ministry of Economy) may be required.
Our General Trading License Service
- Consultation & Strategy: We assess your trading plans and recommend the best jurisdiction (Mainland or specific Free Zone like DMCC or JAFZA).
- Activity Selection: We help you define the scope of trading activities for your license application.
- Application & Approvals: We manage the entire application process, including securing any necessary external approvals.
- License Issuance: We follow up until your General Trading License is issued.
- Post-Setup Support: We assist with visas, bank account opening, and customs registration.
Start Your Trading Business in the UAE
Unlock the potential of the UAE’s strategic trading hub. Contact T4ME for a consultation on obtaining your General Trading License.