GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN UAE
The General Trading license in the UAE is a highly sought-after category that enables investors to establish trading companies. The UAE is a preferred choice for global investors looking to initiate international and local trade operations from the region. Both the Free Zones and Mainland offer a wide range of heavily discounted packages for obtaining a General Trading license in the UAE.
Having a General Trading License in the UAE facilitates smooth international and local trade operations for investors. Obtaining this license is mandatory for conducting trade in various commodities within the UAE and internationally. To engage in the import and export of commodities, a general trading company must obtain an import-export code.
Many company owners from different countries choose to obtain a general trading license and bank account in the UAE to maximize their business profits. Under the amended commercial company law of the UAE, expatriates can establish 100% owned General Trading companies. In Dubai, the registration process for a General Trading Company can be completed in just 3-4 days, including the setup of a virtual office.
SCOPE OF GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN DUBAI
General Trading in UAE encompasses a wide range of business activities, including wholesale, retail, and import-export of various essential goods such as clothes, foodstuffs, machinery, and electronics. With a UAE general trading license, entrepreneurs can trade all permitted commodities. Unlike specific license categories, a General Trading License allows for the sale of a broader range of items. For instance, with a General Trade License, you can sell essential products like packaged food, home essentials, clothing, and personal care items.
GENERAL TRADING LICENSE COST IN DUBAI
The cost of obtaining a General Trading License in Dubai typically ranges between AED 30,000 and AED 40,000. This fee covers various aspects, including trade name approval, initial submission costs, and the virtual office contract fee. The General Trading License in Dubai is a sought-after license that enables investors to engage in trading multiple goods under a single license.
Dubai serves as a thriving hub for trade and commerce, thanks to its strategically advantageous location and excellent connectivity via air, sea, and land to Asian and European markets. It presents an ideal choice for general trading companies looking to establish their presence and commence trading operations. With its abundance of business opportunities, Dubai offers both Free Zones and mainland areas equipped with world-class office facilities, warehouse support, banking assistance, transport and logistics services, and much more to cater to the needs of foreign investors.
HOW TO GET A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN DUBAI
To acquire a general trading license in Dubai, it is crucial to begin by selecting the appropriate jurisdiction. Here are the essential steps to obtain a general trading license in Dubai.
- Choose the right jurisdiction – Freezone or Mainland and the business activities under the general trading License
- Choose the trade name for your company and the legal structure
- Fill up the initial approval form and submit it to the concerned authorities
- Get the required approvals for your business if required
- Prepare the required documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA), and all the approved documents from the relevant government authorities
- Choose the ideal business location and obtain the Tenancy Contract & Ejari
- Obtain the Trade license by submitting all the required documents & fees
- Apply for residence visa and business bank account
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR GETTING A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN DUBAI
- Signed and duly filled General Trading License application by the investor/manager
- Memorandum of Association, Shareholder agreement, other required documents
- Attested Trade Name Approval Letter from the Dubai Economy or the respective Free zone authority
- Passport copy of the Shareholders
TWO WAYS OF ACQUIRING A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN DUBAI
Obtaining the General Trading License in Dubai is made possible through the Dubai Economy and Dubai Free Zones. These two business jurisdictions provide investors with a range of cost options for the license. Depending on their specific business needs, investors can acquire the General Trading License in Dubai from either the Dubai Economy or Free Zones. Both business jurisdictions offer a variety of facilities to cater to the needs of investors.
A) GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN DUBAI – FROM DUBAI ECONOMY
If you’re an investor considering launching a wholesale and retail business in mainland Dubai, obtaining a General Trade License from the Dubai Economy is the perfect option. The Dubai Economy offers a straightforward process for acquiring a General Trading License, which involves following the steps outlined below.
There is an Instant License issued by DED which has a one-year validity and that does not require office space. After one year, the investor must renew the license by securing a physical office space for the company to conduct trade within and outside of UAE. The cost of a General Trading License in Dubai’s mainland typically ranges from AED 30,000 to AED 40,000. When factoring in the trade license fee, virtual office rent with Ejari for one year, and pre-approvals, the total cost of setting up a general trading company in the mainland comes to approximately AED 41,683.
WHY TAKE A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE FROM DUBAI MAINLAND?
General Trading License from Dubai Mainland is one of the most preferred among investors. The flexibility and ability to scale up the trading company make Dubai Mainland the 1st choice. Obtaining a General Trading License from the UAE Mainland will allow entrepreneurs to be actively involved in the local trading in the UAE market, Also, open a store and office anywhere in UAE
For a UAE Mainland General Trading License, there is no restriction on the number of visas and employment visas. Depending on the office space acquired, you can employ staff accordingly.
A foreign investor in the UAE can own 100% of the mainland company and acquire a General Trading License. The shareholder agreement and other supporting documents must be submitted to the Dubai Economy to obtain the General Trading License in Dubai.
OBTAINING A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE FROM DUBAI MAINLAND – ADVANTAGES
- UAE only has a 5% VAT on all trade transactions within the UAE and overall there is a significant tax benefit when compared to other European & Asian regions.
- General Trading License from DED enables you to take an office anywhere in the UAE and indulge actively in the local market.
- Company Formation in UAE Mainland is a seamless process. LLC Company Structure is the most chosen by the investors.
- Finding a local sponsor for LLC company is easy by taking assistance of Business Consultants
- Easy visa availability for employees. Visa quota is awarded based on the office size taken by the investor.
- Easy Bank Account opening and transacting in multi-currency.
- 100% profit and capital repatriation
- Many More…
B) GENERAL TRADING LICENSE FROM DUBAI FREE ZONES
UAE Free Zones offer an ideal environment for establishing a General Trading Company. With a General Trading License in Dubai, investors can engage in diverse activities such as selling, distribution, storage, import/export, and more. This license encompasses a wide range of business ventures, including retail and wholesale of various goods, as well as the sale of accessories, clothing, furniture, electronics, and more. Opting for a general trading license in the UAE is the perfect choice for companies involved in the trade of multiple goods, rather than a single item.
The UAE boasts nearly 40+ Free Zones, and among investors, a general trading license is highly coveted. Opting for a General Trading License Package in a Free Zone offers numerous advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, exemption from import duties within the Free Zone, access to top-notch office, logistics, and warehouse facilities, and more.
For a General Trading License Package with 1 visa quota, prices start at approximately 15,700 AED. Depending on factors such as the Free Zone’s location, business activities, visa quota, and other considerations, the cost of a General Trading License can go up to AED 50,000 or higher.
WHY TAKE A GENERAL TRADING LICENSE FROM DUBAI FREE ZONES?
The Free Zones of UAE provide a seamless and convenient process for establishing companies. They offer affordable general trading license packages that cater to the diverse requirements of investors. With a variety of residence visa quotas available, UAE Free Zones also offer Multi-Year General Trading License Packages, making it easier for investors to hire employees. Moreover, the three-year residence visas offered by most Free Zones serve as an added advantage for investors who wish to employ staff at their office.
By obtaining a Free Zone General Trade License, investors can streamline international trade operations, thanks to the advanced logistics and warehouse support available within the Free Zones.
- 100% expatriate ownership
- Total control of Business
- Fixed fee for whole year
- No Annual Audit Requirement
- No connection to Labour department
- 100% repatriation of profits
- Eligibility to obtain Tax Residency Certificate
- Customs duty exemption
- Dedicated customs-check at the premises
WHERE TO GET THE CHEAPEST GENERAL TRADING LICENSE IN UAE?
Obtaining the most affordable general trading license in the UAE is possible through Sharjah Media City, costing approximately AED 8050 with a zero visa quota. However, it’s important to note that the cost of a general trading license can vary across Emirates, with Dubai generally having higher prices compared to other Emirates. For example, the Dubai Silicon Oasis – IFZA offers the cheapest general trading license in Dubai at AED 11,900 with a zero visa quota.
Having a free zone general trading license comes with numerous benefits. Companies can take advantage of the warehousing facilities provided by the free trade zones, which offer a wide range of options. These options include food storage, cold storage, and even customized warehouse spaces. The free zones cater to the diverse needs of investors, ensuring convenience and flexibility.
HOW PRO CONSULTANCY WILL ASSIST YOU?
Pro Consultancy UAE specializes in LLC Company Formation in both the Mainland and Free zones of UAE. Our team of expert Business Consultants will guide you through the entire company formation process, ensuring a seamless experience as you obtain the General Trading License in UAE.
Based on your business needs, we offer tailored company formation packages. Simply submit your documents online, and we will handle the remote company registration process for you. For more information on Company Formation and Obtaining a General Trading License in UAE, feel free to reach out to us.
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