UAE General Trading License — many products, one licence
A general trading licence lets you import, export and trade a wide range of unrelated goods under one UAE company — no separate licence per product line. Here is what it covers, what you can and cannot trade, free zone vs mainland, what it costs in 2026 and how we set it up.
What this guide covers
Quick summary
- What it is: the broadest commercial licence — trade many unrelated goods under one company.
- Best for: trading houses, distributors, import-export and multi-product entrepreneurs.
- Covers: most consumer and commercial goods; some categories need extra approvals.
- Cost: from around AED 12,000 (free zone) or AED 20,000+ (mainland).
- Flexibility: add or switch product lines without opening a new company.
What a general trading licence is
A general trading licence is the broadest commercial licence in the UAE. Instead of limiting you to one product category, it lets you import, export, distribute and re-sell a wide range of unrelated goods under a single company. If you plan to trade in more than one product line — say electronics today and furniture tomorrow — this is the licence that keeps you flexible without opening a new company each time.
It is the licence of choice for trading houses, distributors, import-export businesses and entrepreneurs who want room to grow into new products. You get one licence, one renewal and one set of compliance to manage, whatever you decide to trade.
Why choose a general trading licence
- Multiple product lines. Trade unrelated goods — electronics, textiles, food, machinery — under one roof.
- Import & export. Bring goods into the UAE, re-export them and distribute regionally.
- Room to pivot. Add or switch products without a new licence, so you can follow demand.
- Credibility. A general trading licence signals scale and reassures banks and suppliers.
- One renewal. Simpler administration than juggling several specialised licences.
What you can and cannot trade
A general trading licence covers most consumer and commercial goods. A few categories are excluded or need extra approvals — you would add a specialised activity or permit for those:
| Usually included | Needs special approval / excluded |
|---|---|
| Electronics, appliances & IT hardware | Pharmaceuticals & medical products |
| Textiles, garments & footwear | Alcohol & tobacco |
| Furniture & home goods | Weapons & security items |
| Foodstuff & general consumer goods | Certain chemicals & regulated goods |
If your goods fall into a regulated category, we will tell you exactly which approval to add.
Free zone or mainland general trading
You can hold a general trading licence in a free zone or on the mainland, and the choice shapes your cost and reach.
| Free zone | Mainland | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership | 100% on most activities |
| Where you sell | Within the zone, internationally & re-export | Directly across the UAE market |
| Cost | Lower entry, from ~AED 12,000+ | Higher, from ~AED 20,000+ |
| Best for | Import/export & international trade | Selling directly to the UAE market |
Zones such as JAFZA and DMCC are popular for trading because of their logistics and banking reputation. If you mainly sell within the UAE, a mainland licence is usually the better fit.
General trading licence cost in 2026
A free zone general trading licence typically starts from around AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the zone and visa needs, while a mainland general trading licence usually begins near AED 20,000 once government fees are included. Warehousing, extra visas and premium zones add to the figure. We give you a clear, itemised quote — and you can compare options with our cost calculator.
How to get a general trading licence
Choose your jurisdiction
We recommend the free zone or mainland setup that fits your trade and market.
Reserve name & activities
We reserve your trade name and register the general trading activity, plus any add-ons.
Initial approval
We secure initial approval from the free zone or Department of Economic Development.
Licence & establishment card
Your general trading licence and establishment card are issued.
Visas & banking
We arrange investor and staff visas and prepare your corporate bank account application.
Official sources
- UAE Ministry of Economy
- Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Free zone authorities (JAFZA, DMCC and others)
General trading licence FAQs
What is a general trading licence in the UAE?
It is the broadest commercial licence, allowing you to import, export, distribute and re-sell a wide range of unrelated goods under a single company — instead of a separate licence for each product category.
What can I trade with a general trading licence?
Most consumer and commercial goods — electronics, textiles, furniture, foodstuff and general merchandise. Regulated categories such as pharmaceuticals, alcohol, tobacco and weapons need special approvals or are excluded.
How much does a general trading licence cost?
A free zone general trading licence typically starts from around AED 12,000 to AED 20,000, while a mainland licence usually begins near AED 20,000 including government fees. Warehousing and extra visas add to the cost.
Is a general trading licence better in a free zone or mainland?
A free zone suits import, export and international trade with 100% ownership and lower cost. A mainland licence suits selling directly across the UAE market. The right choice depends on where your customers are.
How is general trading different from a normal commercial licence?
A standard commercial licence limits you to specific related activities. A general trading licence is far broader, letting you trade many unrelated product lines under one company — ideal if your range will grow or change.
Can I add warehousing to a general trading licence?
Yes. Many trading businesses add warehousing or logistics facilities, especially in zones like JAFZA and DMCC. We arrange the licence, facility and visas together.
Ready to take action?
Whether you're ready to start or still comparing options, we'll give you a straight answer.
