Author: Ayushi Doegar
Published: December 9, 2025
Combining a high level of economic stability and security with easy access to markets in Africa, Asia and Europe, it's little wonder why investors are choosing to start and scale their business in the UAE. Before you get going, you need to ensure that you have a valid general trading license for your business in Dubai, UAE. This legal permit allows you to conduct specific business activities in the UAE and, without it, you could face heavy penalties. It also boosts credibility and raises awareness of your company in the market in which you are operating.
If you are planning to start a business in the UAE, this article will share insights into the general trading license to explore what it offers for your business in the UAE, the types of businesses it applies to, and the application process.
A general trading license for your business in the UAE is a license that allows you to export, re-export, import and trade any number of unrelated goods under one license. Unlike the specific license category, it allows you to trade in a wide range of commodities, except those that are prohibited, such as oil, tobacco, and goods that do not comply with health and safety standards. In theory, you could trade in everything from furniture and food to electronics and pet supplies.
A general trading license is one of the most sought-after licenses among people looking to set up a business in the UAE.
The general trading license offers a number of benefits that enable investors to trade easily across local regions and internationally for their business in the UAE:
The following items are prohibited from trading under a general trading license:
With a general trading license, you can trade in a wide range of commodities including:
The process for obtaining a general trading license in Dubai, UAE involves four main steps:
First, you will need to pick your business activity or list multiple activities if relevant for your business in the UAE. Choose your company's trade name and ensure that it adheres to the UAE's naming conventions. For instance, you should make sure your company name does not include any offensive language and that it is available to be registered.
You can then submit the initial approval form. If this is approved, the authorities will issue the trade license within two hours for your business in the UAE.
Key Requirements:
Next, you will need to register for e-channel services. This online system removes unnecessary paperwork and speeds up the application process. Once you have registered, you will be able to apply for your entry permit. This is a temporary visa, valid for up to 60 days.
Key Requirements:
Once you receive your entry permit, you can activate your status change. It is easiest to do this in-country, but it is also possible to activate this by exiting and re-entering the UAE, depending on your nationality.
Activation Options:
You will need to take a medical test to apply for your Emirates ID card. This involves a blood test, x-rays, and other relevant check-ups. Once you receive the results, you can apply for your Emirates ID card. You will need this identity card to open a bank account, rent a property and take out mobile phone contracts in the UAE.
Medical Test Requirements:
Emirates ID Uses:
While the process for applying for a general trading license is relatively straightforward, you'll need to be prepared with the right documents and information to jump through the right hoops. SPC Free Zone's business setup advisors will guide you through every step of the journey to ensure that you can acquire your general trading license as quickly and smoothly as possible.
The cost of a UAE general trading license starts at AED 6,875. However, there are additional costs to consider.
The total price of your general trading license will vary depending on the following factors:
| Cost Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of business activity | Different activities may have different fee structures |
| Business structure | Legal structure of your company affects costs |
| Visa quota | Number of visas required impacts total price |
| Number of business partners | Additional partners may affect licensing costs |
| Office and warehouse premises | Size and type of premises influence total cost |
To find out how much your general trading license will cost, contact the team at SPC Free Zone for an accurate quote tailored to your specific situation and requirements.
At SPC Free Zone, we can help you navigate every stage of your general trading license application.
Speed and Convenience:
Business Flexibility:
Expansion Options:
SPC Free Zone offers comprehensive support for business setup in the UAE, including:
A general trading license for your business in the UAE is a license that allows you to export, re-export, import and trade any number of unrelated goods under one license. Unlike the specific license category, it allows you to trade in a wide range of commodities, except those that are prohibited, such as oil, tobacco, and goods that do not comply with health and safety standards.
You can trade in everything from furniture and food to electronics and pet supplies. The license allows you to trade in a wide range of commodities, except those that are prohibited (oil, tobacco, and goods that do not comply with health and safety standards).
The cost of a UAE general trading license starts at AED 6,875. However, the total price will vary depending on factors including type of business activity, business structure, visa quota, number of business partners, and office and warehouse premises.
With SPC Free Zone, you can get your license issued in just two hours, thanks to their location in the heart of Sharjah with immigration services onsite. The initial trade license can be issued within two hours after approval of the initial approval form.
Benefits include: opportunity to trade in almost any industry (excluding restricted industries), ability to add multiple shareholders over time, no restrictions on the number of people you employ, no import duties and 100% repatriation of profits, access to advanced logistics and warehouse support, and increased employee visa applications for larger premises.
With SPC Free Zone, you can get up to 20 visas under one trade license. The number of employee visa applications increases for larger premises.
The entry permit is a temporary visa, valid for up to 60 days.
The medical test for Emirates ID application involves a blood test, x-rays, and other relevant check-ups.
Yes, with SPC Free Zone, you can enjoy 100% foreign ownership with zero paid-up capital requirement.
SPC Free Zone offers a dual-license option that allows you to have both mainland and free zone on the same license, helping you expand your business.
Keywords: #uaegeneraltrading #spcfreezone #businesssetup #generaltradinglicenseindubai
Contact SPC Free Zone:
Ready for a fast and easy business setup in the UAE? Get in touch with SPC Free Zone for assistance with your general trading license application.