How to Set up a Hardware, Building Materials, and Supplies Retail Business in the UAE

The UAE’s rapid urbanisation, infrastructure development, and growing construction sector have created a robust demand for hardware, building materials, and supplies. This presents a significant opportunity for businesses in this industry.

Several factors drive the demand for hardware, building materials, and supplies in the UAE: The UAE’s ongoing construction boom, fueled by government initiatives and private investments, has led to a surge in demand for building materials, tools, and equipment. The UAE’s focus on developing world-class infrastructure, including transportation networks, utilities, and public facilities, has created a significant demand for construction materials and related supplies. There is a growing DIY culture in the UAE, with more people taking on home improvement projects. This has increased the demand for hardware, tools, and supplies for home renovations and repairs. The UAE’s industrial sector is expanding, driving the demand for industrial equipment, machinery, and spare parts. In addition to these factors, the UAE’s strategic location and its reputation as a business-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for businesses in the hardware, building materials, and supplies sector.

If you want to set up a Hardware, Building Materials, and Supplies Retail Business in the UAE, these are the business activities you can choose:

4752.00 – Retail sale of hardware, paints and glass in specialised stores

This category encompasses the retail sale of hardware, paints, glass, and other building materials in specialised stores. These stores focus on selling a wide range of products used in construction, home improvement, and other applications. The retail sale can be conducted through various channels, such as hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.01 – Retail sale of hardware

This category specifically refers to the retail sale of hardware products. Hardware products include items used in construction, home improvement, and other applications. Examples of hardware products include nails, screws, bolts, hinges, hammers, saws, and other tools and equipment.

4752.02 – Retail sale of paints, varnishes and lacquers

This category focuses on the retail sale of paints, varnishes, and lacquers. These products are used to protect, colour, and finish surfaces. The retail sale of paints, varnishes, and lacquers can be conducted through hardware stores, paint stores, and online retailers.

4752.03  -Retail sale of flat glass

This category encompasses the retail sale of flat glass. Flat glass is used in various applications, such as windows, doors, and mirrors. The retail sale of flat glass can be conducted through hardware stores, glass suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.04 – Retail sale of other building material such as bricks, wood, sanitary equipment

This category includes the retail sale of other building materials, such as bricks, wood, and sanitary equipment. Bricks are used in construction to build walls and other structures. Wood is used for various construction purposes, such as framing, flooring, and trim. Sanitary equipment includes products used in bathrooms and toilets, such as toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and faucets.

4752.05 – Retail sale of do-it-yourself material and equipment

This category focuses on the retail sale of do-it-yourself materials and equipment. Do-it-yourself materials and equipment are used by individuals to make repairs, renovations, or improvements to their homes or other properties. Examples of do-it-yourself materials and equipment include tools, supplies, and instructional materials.

4752.06 – Retail sale of lawn mowers, however operated

This category encompasses the retail sale of lawnmowers, regardless of their operating method (e.g., gas-powered, electric, or battery-powered). Lawnmowers are used to cut grass and maintain lawns. The retail sale of lawnmowers can be conducted through hardware stores, garden centres, and online retailers.

4752.07 – Retail sale of saunas

This category focuses on the retail sale of saunas. Saunas are heated rooms or cabins used for relaxation and health benefits. The retail sale of saunas can be conducted through home improvement stores, specialty sauna suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.08 – Reinforcement Steel Bars Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of reinforcement steel bars. Reinforcement steel bars are used in construction to strengthen concrete structures. The retail sale of reinforcement steel bars can be conducted through building materials suppliers, steel distributors, and online retailers.

4752.09 – Electrical Fittings Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of electrical fittings. Electrical fittings are components used in electrical wiring and installations. Examples of electrical fittings include switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and cables. The retail sale of electrical fittings can be conducted through hardware stores, electrical supply stores, and online retailers.

4752.10 – Tiles & Flooring Materials Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of tiles and flooring materials. Tiles and flooring materials are used to cover floors and walls. Examples of tiles and flooring materials include ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, hardwood flooring, laminate flooring, and vinyl flooring. The retail sale of tiles and flooring materials can be conducted through hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.11 – Wooden Products Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of wooden products. Wooden products can include various items, such as furniture, flooring, trim, and other wooden goods. The retail sale of wooden products can be conducted through furniture stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.12 – Pipes & Fittings Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of pipes and fittings. Pipes and fittings are used in plumbing and other applications. The retail sale of pipes and fittings can be conducted through plumbing supply companies, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.13 – Building Metal Products Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of building metal products. Building metal products can include various items, such as steel beams, metal studs, metal roofing, and other metal components used in construction. The retail sale of building metal products can be conducted through building materials suppliers, steel distributors, and online retailers.

4752.14 – Wires & Cables Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of wires and cables. Wires and cables are used in electrical wiring and other applications. The retail sale of wires and cables can be conducted through electrical supply stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.15 – Building & Construction Materials Trading

This category is a broader term that can encompass the retail sale of various building and construction materials. It may include products that do not fall under the more specific categories mentioned earlier. The retail sale of building and construction materials can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.16 – Paint & Varnish Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of paint and varnish. Paint and varnish are used to protect, colour, and finish surfaces. The retail sale of paint and varnish can be conducted through hardware stores, paint stores, and online retailers.

4752.17 – Building Hardware & Tools Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of building hardware and tools. Building hardware and tools are used in construction and home improvement projects. Examples of building hardware and tools include nails, screws, bolts, hinges, hammers, saws, and other equipment. The retail sale of building hardware and tools can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.18 – Basic Steel Products Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of basic steel products. Basic steel products are the raw materials used in the steel industry. Examples of basic steel products include steel billets, blooms, slabs, and wire rods. The retail sale of basic steel products is typically conducted through specialised steel suppliers and metal distributors.

4752.19 – Basic Non Ferrous Metal Products Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of basic non-ferrous metal products. Non-ferrous metals are metals that do not contain iron. Examples of basic non-ferrous metal products include copper, aluminium, zinc, lead, and nickel. The retail sale of basic non-ferrous metal products can be conducted through metal suppliers, metal distributors, and online retailers.

4752.20 – Non Manufactured Precious Metal Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of non-manufactured precious metals. Non-manufactured precious metals are precious metals in their raw form, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. The retail sale of non-manufactured precious metals is typically conducted through precious metals dealers, jewellers, and online retailers.

4752.21 – Metal Alloys Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of metal alloys. Metal alloys are mixtures of two or more metals. Examples of metal alloys include steel, brass, bronze, and stainless steel. The retail sale of metal alloys can be conducted through metal suppliers, metal distributors, and online retailers.

4752.22 – Plastic & Nylon Raw Materials Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of plastic and nylon raw materials. Plastic and nylon raw materials are used in various manufacturing processes. The retail sale of plastic and nylon raw materials can be conducted through plastics and polymers suppliers, chemical distributors, and online retailers.

4752.23 – Paper Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of paper. Paper is used in various applications, such as printing, writing, and packaging. The retail sale of paper can be conducted through office supply stores, stationery stores, and online retailers.

4752.24 – Pumps, Engines, Valves & Spare Parts Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of pumps, engines, valves, and their spare parts. Pumps, engines, and valves are used in various industrial and commercial applications. The retail sale of pumps, engines, valves, and spare parts can be conducted through industrial equipment suppliers, machinery distributors, and online retailers.

4752.29 – Timber Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of timber. Timber is wood that has been cut and prepared for use. The retail sale of timber can be conducted through lumber yards, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.32 – Sanitary Ware Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of sanitary ware. Sanitary ware includes products used in bathrooms and toilets, such as toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and faucets. The retail sale of sanitary ware can be conducted through plumbing supply companies, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.33 – Tanks & Silos Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of tanks and silos. Tanks and silos are used for storing liquids, solids, and gases. The retail sale of tanks and silos can be conducted through industrial equipment suppliers, storage solutions providers, and online retailers.

4752.35 – Bricks Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of bricks. Bricks are used in construction to build walls and other structures. The retail sale of bricks can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.38 – Water Heaters Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of water heaters. Water heaters are used to heat water for domestic and commercial use. The retail sale of water heaters can be conducted through plumbing supply companies, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.39 – False Ceiling Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of false ceilings. False ceilings are suspended ceilings that can be used to improve the appearance of a room and provide insulation. The retail sale of false ceilings can be conducted through building materials suppliers, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.40 – Cement Products Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of cement products. Cement products are used in construction to create concrete and other building materials. The retail sale of cement products can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.41 – Gypsum Products Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of gypsum products. Gypsum products are used in construction and other applications, such as drywall, plaster, and plasterboard. The retail sale of gypsum products can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.43 – Workshop Hardware & Tools Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of workshop hardware and tools. Workshop hardware and tools are used in various workshops and industrial settings. Examples of workshop hardware and tools include hand tools, power tools, measuring instruments, and other equipment. The retail sale of workshop hardware and tools can be conducted through hardware stores, tool and machinery suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.45 – Sand, Gravel & Stones Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of sand, gravel, and stones. Sand, gravel, and stones are used in construction, landscaping, and other applications. The retail sale of sand, gravel, and stones can be conducted through building materials suppliers, landscaping companies, and online retailers.

4752.46 – Glass & Mirrors Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of glass and mirrors. Glass and mirrors are used in various applications, such as windows, doors, and decorative items. The retail sale of glass and mirrors can be conducted through hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.49 – Fiber Glass Products Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of fibreglass products. Fibreglass products are used in various applications, such as insulation, construction materials, and boat hulls. The retail sale of fibreglass products can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.50 – Decoration Materials & Partitions Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of decoration materials and partitions. Decoration materials and partitions are used to decorate and divide spaces. Examples of decoration materials and partitions include wallpaper, paint, tiles, and room dividers. The retail sale of decoration materials and partitions can be conducted through hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.52 – Ready-Mix Concrete Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of ready-mix concrete. Ready-mix concrete is a concrete mixture that is prepared at a factory and delivered to the construction site. The retail sale of ready-mix concrete can be conducted through concrete supply companies and construction material suppliers.

4752.53 – Fencing & Barbed Wire Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of fencing and barbed wire. Fencing and barbed wire are used to enclose property and deter intruders. The retail sale of fencing and barbed wire can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.54 – Special Fabrics & Fibres For Construction Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of special fabrics and fibres used in construction. Special fabrics and fibres can include materials such as geotextiles, waterproofing membranes, and insulation materials. The retail sale of special fabrics and fibres for construction can be conducted through building materials suppliers, specialty fabric suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.56 – Building Maquettes & Models Requisites Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of building maquettes and models requisites. Building maquettes and models requisites are used to create models and mock-ups of buildings and structures. The retail sale of building maquettes and models requisites can be conducted through hobby stores, art supply stores, and online retailers.

4752.59 – Agricultural Tools Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of agricultural tools. Agricultural tools are used in farming and agriculture. Examples of agricultural tools include tractors, ploughs, harvesters, and other equipment. The retail sale of agricultural tools can be conducted through agricultural equipment suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.61 – Metal Drums & Barrels Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of metal drums and barrels. Metal drums and barrels are used for storing and transporting various liquids and solids. The retail sale of metal drums and barrels can be conducted through industrial equipment suppliers, packaging materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.62 – Metal Cans & Containers Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of metal cans and containers. Metal cans and containers are used for packaging various products, such as food, beverages, and other goods. The retail sale of metal cans and containers can be conducted through packaging materials suppliers, online retailers, and businesses that specialise in metalworking and fabrication.

4752.63 – Precision Dies Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of precision dies. Precision dies are specialised tools used in manufacturing processes to shape and cut materials. The retail sale of precision dies can be conducted through industrial equipment suppliers, tool and machinery suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.64 – Traffic Signs & Requisites Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of traffic signs and their associated requisites. Traffic signs are used to guide and direct traffic. The retail sale of traffic signs and requisites can be conducted through road safety equipment suppliers, online retailers, and businesses that specialise in traffic management solutions.

4752.65 – Metal Ropes Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of metal ropes. Metal ropes are used in various applications, such as construction, lifting, and industrial processes. The retail sale of metal ropes can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.66 – Cargo Containers Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of cargo containers. Cargo containers are used for transporting goods over long distances. The retail sale of cargo containers can be conducted through shipping container suppliers, transportation equipment suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.67 – Prefabricated Houses Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of prefabricated houses. Prefabricated houses are houses that are manufactured in a factory and then assembled on-site. The retail sale of prefabricated houses can be conducted through home construction companies, modular home builders, and online retailers.

4752.68 – Swimming Pools Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of swimming pools. Swimming pools can be above-ground or in-ground, and they are used for recreational purposes. The retail sale of swimming pools can be conducted through pool installation companies, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

4752.70 – Insulation & Protection Materials Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of insulation and protection materials. Insulation and protection materials are used to insulate buildings, protect surfaces, and provide safety. Examples of insulation and protection materials include rock wool, fibreglass, foam, and protective coatings. The retail sale of insulation and protection materials can be conducted through building materials suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.72 – Grease Traps Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of grease traps. Grease traps are used to separate grease and oil from wastewater. The retail sale of grease traps can be conducted through plumbing supply companies, online retailers, and businesses that specialise in commercial kitchen equipment.

4752.73 – Ventilators & Fans Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of ventilators and fans. Ventilators and fans are used to improve air circulation and ventilation in various settings. The retail sale of ventilators and fans can be conducted through HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) equipment suppliers, hardware stores, and online retailers.

4752.78 – Crane Rails & Fixing Accessories Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of crane rails and their associated fixing accessories. Crane rails are specialised rails used to guide and support overhead cranes in industrial settings. The retail sale of crane rails and fixing accessories can be conducted through specialised industrial equipment suppliers or online retailers.

4752.81 – Metal Wires Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of metal wires. Metal wires are used in various applications, such as construction, manufacturing, and electrical wiring. The retail sale of metal wires can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.82 – Lighting Poles Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of lighting poles. Lighting poles are used to support lighting fixtures in outdoor areas, such as streets, parking lots, and parks. The retail sale of lighting poles can be conducted through specialised lighting equipment suppliers or online retailers.

4752.86 – Ironmongery Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of ironmongery products. Ironmongery products are hardware items used in construction, home improvement, and other applications. Examples of ironmongery products include nails, screws, bolts, hinges, locks, and other fasteners. The retail sale of ironmongery products can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

4752.87 – Locks & Keys Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of locks and keys. Locks and keys are used to secure doors, gates, and other objects. The retail sale of locks and keys can be conducted through hardware stores, locksmiths, and online retailers.

4752.88 – Rock Wool Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of rock wool. Rock wool is a fire-resistant insulation material made from volcanic rock. The retail sale of rock wool can be conducted through building materials suppliers and online retailers.

4752.89 – Raised Access Computer Floors Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of raised access computer floors. Raised access computer floors are modular flooring systems used to provide easy access to cables and other infrastructure in computer rooms and data centres. The retail sale of raised access computer floors can be conducted through specialised flooring suppliers or online retailers.

4752.90 – Garbage & Waste Collection Containers Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of garbage and waste collection containers. Garbage and waste collection containers are used to store and collect waste. The retail sale of garbage and waste collection containers can be conducted through building materials suppliers, online retailers, or specialised waste management equipment suppliers.

4752.92 – Industrial Sponge Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of industrial sponges. Industrial sponges are used for various cleaning and absorbent purposes in industrial settings. The retail sale of industrial sponges can be conducted through cleaning supplies suppliers and online retailers.

4752.93 – Rubber Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of rubber products. Rubber products can include various items, such as rubber bands, rubber gloves, rubber mats, and other rubber goods. The retail sale of rubber products can be conducted through hardware stores, office supplies stores, and online retailers.

4752.96 – Upholstery Requisites Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of upholstery requisites. Upholstery requisites are materials and supplies used in the upholstery industry. Examples of upholstery requisites include fabrics, foam, padding, springs, and other components. The retail sale of upholstery requisites can be conducted through specialised upholstery supply stores or online retailers.

4752.97 – Plastic Bags & Containers Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of plastic bags and containers. Plastic bags and containers are used for packaging and storage. The retail sale of plastic bags and containers can be conducted through various channels, such as grocery stores, hardware stores, office supplies stores, and online retailers.

4752.98 – Cotton & Natural Fibres Trading

This category encompasses the retail sale of cotton and other natural fibres. Cotton and natural fibres are used in various applications, such as textiles, clothing, and home goods. The retail sale of cotton and natural fibres can be conducted through fabric stores, craft stores, and online retailers.

4752.99 – Plastic Sheets Trading

This category focuses on the retail sale of plastic sheets. Plastic sheets are used for various purposes, such as covering surfaces, creating protective barriers, and manufacturing products. The retail sale of plastic sheets can be conducted through hardware stores, building materials suppliers, and online retailers.

  • Third-party Approval: These business activities do not require third-party approval.
  • Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.
  • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.

Did you find what you were looking for? Explore the other guides in our Activity Hub for exploring unique business ideas in Dubai and navigate the essentials of business setup with ease.

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