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Explore About General Trading License Activities in the UAE

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With the cosmopolitan and vibrant environment of the UAE, home to more than 200 nationalities, the country has attracted many foreign entrepreneurs and investors from around the globe. The UAE has become a global hub for financial services, logistics, hospitality, and trading is steadily growing in other sectors, including healthcare, technology, and renewable energy. Thanks to its modern facilities and excellent infrastructure, the UAE has become an ideal location for association conferences, corporate meetings, business events, and exhibitions. General trading license activities has a wide variation, many business persons are interested in trading a variety of goods and commodities to various countries or within the country. These operations and many other business activities require a general trading license in the UAE. 

With the cosmopolitan and vibrant environment of the UAE, home to more than 200 nationalities, the country has attracted many foreign entrepreneurs and investors from around the globe. The UAE has become a global hub for financial services, logistics, hospitality, and trading is steadily growing in other sectors, including healthcare, technology, and renewable energy. Thanks to its modern facilities and excellent infrastructure, the UAE has become an ideal location for association conferences, corporate meetings, business events, and exhibitions. General trading license activities has a wide variation, many business persons are interested in trading a variety of goods and commodities to various countries or within the country. These operations and many other business activities require a general trading license in the UAE. 

What are General Trading License Activities?

A General Trade License allows conducting activities of exporting, re-exporting, and importing products in the UAE such as:

Food Products

Clothes & Accessories

Furnitures

Electronics & Tech Supplies

Stationery & School Supplies

If a businessman is doing different products/goods trading, it is suggested to go for a general trading license in UAE to enjoy all these facilities in one license. Thus, it will not be mandatory to opt for separate licenses for each of these businesses. Trading of Alcohol, Medicine, Cars, Chemicals, etc., is not considered as general trading license activities and cannot be done through a General Trading License in UAE, which requires special approvals from Concerned government authorities or municipalities. However, these types of activities can be approved by DED under a commercial trade license.

Costs of a General Trade License in the UAE 

As per the Department of Economic Development (DED) Dubai, the holder of a General Trading License can do the business of importing, trading, and re-exporting any of the allowed goods and other related general trading license activities. The activities that need special approvals and arrangements can be formed under a sole establishment or an LLC or a Single Owner (LLC-SO). 

This type of license can be associated with a legal holding structure within the UAE and other licensing authorities. With this license, a businessperson can also use and rent storage and do warehousing. 

Ecommerce & Digital Activities
  • Run a Business Locally or Internationally
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Lease Agreement
  • Multiple Shareholders
  • Multiple Activities
  • Free Dubai Based PO Box
  • Discount on Multi Year License
  • Corporate Bank Account Opening Eligibility
  • Up to 6 Visa Upgrade Eligibility
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT

AND get up to 50% off on exclusive client discounts on Business Growth Services
Standard Activity Package Free Zone
  • Run a Business Locally or Internationally
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Lease Agreement
  • Multiple Shareholders
  • Multiple Activities
  • Free Dubai Based PO Box
  • Discount on Multi Year License
  • Corporate Bank Account Opening Eligibility
  • Up to 6 Visa Upgrade Eligibility
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT

AND get up to 50% off on exclusive client discounts on Business Growth Services
ANY Activity Package Mainland
  • Run a Business Locally or Internationally
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Direct to Consumer Trading (Shop/Direct Selling)
  • Eligibility to Rent a Full Office in Dubai
  • Less Restrictions Compared to Free Zone
  • Free Dubai Based PO Box
  • Corporate Bank Account Opening Eligibility
  • Up to Any Number of Visas Upgrade
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT

AND get up to 50% off on exclusive client discounts on Business Growth Services

Obtaining a General Trade License in UAE

Obtaining a general trade license is a straightforward procedure and can be done through the following steps:

Planning and Initial Approval

Begin with selecting a UAE-compliant trade name and outlining your business activities (up to 10 distinct activities per license). Submit your preliminary application, and if necessary, secure external endorsements relevant to your business type.

● Passport Copy

● Two Passport-size Photographs

● Trade Name (3 possible options for a trade name or company name)

● Residence Address Proof (UAE or home country)

● Visa Copy (if you are a resident) or Entry Stamp (if you are on a tourist visa). Skip if you don’t have either of them.

● Emirates ID (front and back) – If you are a UAE resident only, otherwise it’s not needed

● Payment Proof

 

Documentation and Structure

Prepare foundational documents such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA). Determine the most fitting legal structure for your enterprise, ensuring both compliance and alignment with your business vision.

Finalizing Location and Licensing

Choose a strategic business location and authenticate your tenancy through Ejari. Submit the required documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED) for the final license. Conclude the process by paying the specified license fees.

Benefits of a General Trade License in the UAE

There are plenty of advantages to getting a General Trade license in the UAE, such as:

Limited Minimum Capital Requirement

It is not mandatory to show a bank guarantee nor is it compulsory to deposit the share capital in the bank. Also, 100% of capital repatriation is allowed for UAE companies.

Facile Establishment Process 

The process of setting up a company in the UAE is a straightforward process. The whole procedure can be concluded in 3-4 working days if all the documents are in place and prepared.

Excellent Infrastructural facilities

Availability of office spaces with flexible rent or lease plans with the best infrastructural facilities provide an ideal place and environment for businessmen to conduct their business in the most optimal way possible. 

Zero Tax Regime

Which includes no corporate or personal tax – In UAE, there is no corporate tax or personal tax for doing any business. A businessperson who is holding a license in UAE does not pay

Unlimited Availability of Employment Visas

Companies do not have any restrictions on applying for an employment visa from the Ministry of Labor. The employment visa eligibility is based on the size of the office and the selection of license activity. As a rule of thumb, a bigger office will allow entrepreneurs to apply for more visas. The investor visa or employment visa holder can also sponsor a spouse, parents, children, and maids.

How Can Choose UAE Help

At Choose UAE, we provide a fast and efficient business setup for foreign investors and startups wanting to put up their business in a free zone. Our team of experts are dedicated in providing an optimal customer service experience, with a wide range of business support services to help you run your business– from Corporate Bank Account opening assistance, PRO services, Digital Marketing services, and many more.  

As official partners of UAE Government Authorities, we have the lowest prices in the market with no license processing fees and no hidden charges. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today. 

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Choose us for our comprehensive and convenient one-stop-shop services, including business formation, visa assistance, banking and digital brand launch. We are dedicated to being your single, trusted partner throughout your entire business journey.

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Choose us for our dedicated support, with a dedicated support person assigned to each client to ensure personalized assistance and a dedicated point of contact throughout the entire business journey.

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Rehan khan R KRehan khan R K
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Very good company and quickly response,That's all is very good.
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Very professional, reactive and fast. I am very satisfied
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Excellent Service by the team. Loved the speed, proactiveness and quality of work. Got my company registered in a record time. Huge shoutout to the team especially Marian and Maria!
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Exceptional service!!! I’d like to thank Earl for his support.
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Choose UAE helped me thoroughly with my company incorporation. They were very helpful throughout the whole process and they handled everything from start to end. I highly recommend using them!
CoCaBee IncCoCaBee Inc
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David LaveryDavid Lavery
11:58 27 Sep 23
The team at Choose UAE were very professional in their services, setting up my daughters CoCaBee business license, once again that you kindly for all your support.CheersDavid
Afiya MohammedAfiya Mohammed
10:48 26 Sep 23
I highly recommend Malika to anyone who needs help finding the right trade license for their business. She is knowledgeable, efficient, and professional, and she provides excellent customer service.
BORA NICOLAS TALONBORA NICOLAS TALON
10:05 21 Sep 23
Super professional and fast. Maria &the team helped us from the beginning and each steps very clearly. We highly recommend Choose UAE if looking to setup a business in UAE!
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06:16 20 Sep 23
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09:13 19 Sep 23
Great service - team communicates and advises on documentation. Quick responses and regular updates
Rajiv GoelRajiv Goel
09:30 15 Sep 23
Armic EsfahaniArmic Esfahani
07:39 14 Sep 23
I recently worked with Choose UAE to set up my business in the UAE. From the beginning, their professionalism and expertise shone through. The entire process was streamlined, smooth, and completed much faster than I anticipated.Every step of the way, the team was there to provide guidance and answer any questions I had, ensuring that I never felt in the dark. Their promptness and dedication to client satisfaction are truly commendable. I can't thank them enough for making what could have been a daunting process feel so straightforward and manageable.To anyone looking to establish a business in the UAE, I wholeheartedly recommend Choose UAE.
nehmatseifnehmatseif
10:17 13 Sep 23
Great service. Thank you Maria!
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06:21 12 Sep 23
They were helpful and procedure went smoothly
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16:13 10 Sep 23
Its always a fantastic experience to get Choose UAE services there team is professional and provide A to Z update regarding the Company setupHats off to Marian & Erl
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It was a very good experience through out the process. Everything was so quick and on time.The charges are also very reasonable and there is no hidden charges. We are very happy with the services and Earl helped us really well. Choose UAE is highly recommended
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23:12 26 Aug 23
My experience with ChooseUAE was excellent. They promptly addressed all my inquiries and ensured complete clarity on every aspect. Miss Marian's responsible approach and thorough responses to all queries stood out. Without hesitation, I highly recommend ChooseUAE for their top-notch service.
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12:58 23 Aug 23
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Best and swift working team. Recommended for business formation in uae
Aline CoutinhoAline Coutinho
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They are very attentive and always helpful with their customers.
Tamer RedaTamer Reda
11:51 21 Aug 23
Despite not yet contracting them but the level of knowledge and the fast reply time I received from the team is much encouraging me to give 5 stars. Special thanks to Earl and the team
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06:38 21 Aug 23
Great service. Very knowledgeable and helpful team. Helped me through out the process. Unfortunately i couldn't go ahead due to personal issues but they helped in that too. Very professional.
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10:48 18 Aug 23
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14:22 17 Aug 23
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Shagufta ShaikhShagufta Shaikh
07:51 15 Aug 23
I wholeheartedly recommend Mallika to anyone looking for expert guidance in setting up their business. Her professionalism, knowledge, and unwavering support have been invaluable to me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with her. Thank you, Mallika, for turning what could have been a daunting process into an enlightening and empowering journey. Your dedication is truly commendable!
Gabriel GhorGabriel Ghor
00:25 12 Aug 23
Excellent service from the team! Whatever questions I have raise, they make sure to cater me with promptness and fully inform and assist every step of the way. Also, they are flexible with the my needs, especially in limited time in UAE, they make sure that my Visa and ID are processed with highest priority, accompanying me all the way through medical checkup and biometric registration. Even banking setup took only 1 day. Great work to Malika, Maria and Earl.Thank you for your hard work and dedication! Very much appreciated!
Ahsan Ali KhanAhsan Ali Khan
10:10 11 Aug 23
Highly recommend. Ms Maria was so cooperative throughout the process due to which everything went smooth.
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08:50 11 Aug 23
Fast and straight forward transaction. Jem and Earl were very helpful. They never hesitate to reply to my queries even beyond working hours. Great job team! I'll definitely recommend Choose UAE⭐️
Nick TNick T
06:01 11 Aug 23
Very detailed and helpful consultant if youre looking to start a business in UAE!
zawar shahzawar shah
20:56 08 Aug 23
Excellent Service from Mam Malaika Shaikh Thanks You So Much 😊
Namit BhallaNamit Bhalla
05:25 03 Aug 23
Very professional and delightfully quick. The team is great, they guide you on every step and keep following up so that you can finish the entire process quickly. They helped us from getting the license to opening our bank account and made it very seamless.All 3 staff who helped me - Malika, Maria and Earl were very helpful.
Allen LunizaAllen Luniza
06:12 20 Jul 23
I have a seamless experience dealing with Earl processing with opening my E-commerce business license. He is politely responsive, knowledgeable and professional. I extremely recommend CHOOSE UAE for Business License needs.
Paul Bikeyev-WinterPaul Bikeyev-Winter
11:28 10 Jul 23
A very efficient and friendly management consultancy company in Dubai. Used their services to start a "landside" company, obtain rental agreements and extend my business license for another year. Efficient communication and very competitive prices. Dubai has many such companies but Choose UAE stands out because of their attitude and efficiency. I would like to especially mark the wonderful assistance and services provided by Maria and Salman. Highly recommended!
Manju MandalManju Mandal
11:40 31 May 23
I had the pleasure of working with Choose UAE for business consulting services, and I can confidently say that they exceeded my expectations in every aspect. Their commitment to providing high-quality service is truly commendable.Choose UAE has undoubtedly set the bar high in the field of business consulting, and I am confident that they will continue to excel in delivering exceptional service to their clients.
Joseph CasupananJoseph Casupanan
21:14 30 May 23
Choose UAE is one stop solution for all your problems when you have to setup a new business. I have a really great experience and I can say my decision was right to select them.Staffs are highly skilled and professional. We found all the people very helpful who worked with us for company setup, visa processing, corporate bank account opening, VAT Registration, VAT Filing and Corporate Tax Registration. They always keep us updated on each step.Thank you, Choose UAE!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Faisal SiddiquiFaisal Siddiqui
13:16 17 May 23
I recently had the pleasure of utilizing the business license services provided by Choose UAE. I must say, their professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail have truly exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend their services to any business owner in need of assistance with obtaining or managing their licenses.From the moment I contacted them, their team demonstrated exceptional knowledge and expertise in the field of business licensing. The representatives Patrick and Maria were prompt in responding to my inquiries and took the time to thoroughly understand my specific licensing requirements. This level of attentiveness immediately instilled confidence in their ability to handle my case effectively.
Talha MehmudTalha Mehmud
13:47 25 Apr 23
Hi everyone. It’ll be an honest review for all of you who are seeking professional services inline with good advice that is actually beneficial for you.I’ve working with Choose UAE specifically with Mr. Patrick and then Ms. Maria.And i gotta tell you how grateful i am. I needed someone who could guide me financially and mentally regarding my business. And Mr. Patrick has always been there. I am lost at words on how great and supportive Choose UAE is. This was my very first experience with the licensing process and this company made my life easier.Thank you very much and i’ll be looking forward to work with this company.
Shiraz RazaShiraz Raza
16:35 31 Mar 23
As the CEO of my company, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Marian and the exceptional team at "Choose UAE" for their outstanding services in helping us set up a mainland company license in Dubai.From the outset, Marian and her team demonstrated a level of professionalism, expertise, and responsiveness that was truly exceptional. They guided us through every step of the process, answering all our questions and providing us with all the necessary information and documentation.Their knowledge of the local laws, regulations, and procedures was impressive, and they were able to provide us with expert guidance every step of the way. We were particularly impressed with their attention to detail and commitment to getting everything done right.Marian and her team provided us with exceptional customer service, always going above and beyond to assist us with any issues or concerns we had. They kept us informed of the progress being made and ensured that we were always aware of any developments.Overall, I cannot recommend "Choose UAE" and Marian highly enough for anyone looking to set up a mainland company license in Dubai. Their expertise, professionalism, and exceptional customer service are unparalleled. Thank you, Marian and the "Choose UAE" team, for your outstanding service!
Wafiq HusseiniWafiq Husseini
07:33 15 Mar 23
I recently used Choose UAE to help me set up my business and I was impressed with their professionalism and expertise throughout the whole process. From registering the company to obtaining all necessary licenses and permits, they made the entire process hassle-free and efficient.Their team of skilled professionals were always available to answer all of my questions and guide me in making the best decisions for my business. They also took care of all the paperwork and kept me updated on the progress of my application.Overall, I highly recommend Choose UAE for anyone looking to start a new business. Their top-notch customer service, attention to detail, and vast knowledge of the industry makes them a valuable asset for any entrepreneur. Thank you for your help in making my dream business a reality!
Khurram DurraniKhurram Durrani
18:25 13 Mar 23
The Choose UAE team represents among the highest levels of customer service I have experienced. Information was accurate, responses to queries were turned around very fast. Answers were clear and where necessary detailed enough for us to make informed decisions quickly, minimizing the end-to-end time to process complex transactions among a number of parties. All of the team members showed great concern for my expectations. They all worked hard to meet and exceed those expectations.Maria’s communication skills are impressive. She prioritizes responding to emails and is the first to react to my text messages.John goes the extra mile to show customers he cares. Communication skills are impressive.Totally recommend them as I’m very satisfied.
Fawad KhanFawad Khan
09:34 09 Feb 23
I dealt with Marian and she was extremely professional throughout. The processes were explained in detail and the best part was the fact that I was a offered a solution according to my needs. Will highly recommend their services to anyone who is looking to start their own business in Dubai.
sanaz GHsanaz GH
13:47 13 Oct 22
I have dealt with Jane in the beginning all the information been shared with her and she had put me in touch with Salman who was very helpful, patient and informative. After that my case been transferred to Operation department and Gem was in touch with me.In overall very easy process, very friendly, patient, informative team with the quick response and helpful. For sure will recommend them.Thank you guys you are amazing
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