The cost of a General Trading LLC license in Dubai typically ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000 on the mainland, while free zone packages start from AED 12,000 and go up to AED 28,000 depending on visa allocation and office requirements. These costs cover essential approvals such as trade name reservation, initial approval, license issuance, and establishment card registration.
The total cost varies based on several factors, including the jurisdiction you choose, number of visas required, office space type (Ejari, flexi-desk, or physical office), and any premium free zone or activity add-ons. Mandatory government fees include MoA notarization, Dubai Municipality charges, immigration file opening, and activity fees.
Applicants should also plan for additional expenses many overlook, such as Ejari rental costs, UBO filing, customs code registration, medical and Emirates ID fees for visas, and annual renewal charges.
What Is a General Trading License In Dubai?
A General Trading License in Dubai is a commercial license that allows a company to import, export, distribute, and trade multiple product categories under one license. It covers most non-restricted goods and offers flexibility compared to product-specific trade licenses.
This license is highly in demand because it supports multi-product trading, local and international distribution, warehouse operations, and online or wholesale selling within the UAE and abroad.
It is ideal for importers, exporters, wholesalers, online sellers, Amazon FBA merchants, re-exporters, and businesses dealing in diverse product lines who need a broad trading scope without activity limitations.
Dubai Mainland General Trading LLC License Cost:
The mainland General Trading LLC license in Dubai costs between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000, depending on the activity type, number of shareholders, visa quota, and the size or type of office space you choose. This cost generally includes trade name reservation, initial approval, license issuance, MoA notarization, and the establishment card. However, the total amount increases when adding office rent (Ejari), visas, immigration fees, and annual renewal charges.
| Cost Component | Details |
| License Fees | Includes trade name reservation, initial approval, activity fees, and license issuance. |
| Office Rent / Ejari | Mandatory mainland office; price varies by size and location (Ejari required). |
| Notary & Legal Fees | Covers MoA notarization, LLC agreement drafting, and legal documentation. |
| Immigration System Fees | Establishment card, immigration file opening, and access to government systems. |
| Investor Visa Cost | Medical tests, Emirates ID, visa stamping, and change of status. |
| Renewal Expectations | Annual renewal usually AED 12,000–20,000 depending on office and activity structure. |
Dubai Free Zone General Trading License Cost:
Dubai’s free zones offer a wide range of General Trading license packages starting from AED 12,000 and going up to AED 50,000, depending on the free zone, visa allocation, and office requirements. Each zone has different advantages, such as lower entry cost, premium reputation, or advanced logistics access. Below is a zone-wise breakdown with clear cost-focused explanations.
IFZA General Trading License Cost:
The cost of an IFZA General Trading license starts from AED 14,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the visa quota and whether office or flexi-desk facilities are required. IFZA offers one of the most affordable premium free zone packages, making it ideal for startups and multi-product trading companies.
Meydan Free Zone General Trading License Cost:
Meydan’s General Trading license starts from AED 12,500 to AED 18,000, offering competitive rates for entrepreneurs seeking a Dubai address without high overheads. Costs increase slightly when adding visas, office space, or additional business activities.
Dubai South Free Zone General Trading License Cost:
Dubai South offers General Trading licenses from AED 15,000 to AED 22,000, depending on visa allocation and office type. Its strategic location near Al Maktoum Airport and the logistics corridor makes it a strong option for import/export-focused businesses.
DMCC General Trading License Cost:
DMCC’s General Trading license costs between AED 35,000 and AED 50,000, making it one of Dubai’s premium options. The higher cost reflects its global reputation, premium business district, and access to advanced trade, logistics, and commodities infrastructure.
Other Free Zones Offering General Trading Activities:
Other Dubai free zones such as DSO, DAFZA, and UAQ FTZ offer General Trading licenses ranging from AED 13,000 to AED 25,000 depending on visa needs and office type. These zones provide cost-effective solutions for small to mid-sized trading operations seeking flexibility and lower annual overheads.
Cost of Setting Up a General Trading LLC In Dubai:
Setting up a General Trading company in Dubai typically requires a total investment of AED 20,000 to AED 60,000, depending on whether you choose mainland or free zone, your visa requirements, and the operational setup you need. Below is a clear cost-focused breakdown covering every mandatory element of a complete trading setup.
License Fees:
General Trading license fees range from AED 12,000 to AED 50,000 depending on jurisdiction, visa quota, and business activity selections. This includes initial approval, trade name reservation, and license issuance.
Office Space Cost:
Mandatory office space or flexi-desk fees range from AED 8,000 to AED 25,000 annually, depending on location, size, and whether mainland Ejari or free zone workspace is required.
Customs Registration:
Import/export businesses require a Dubai Customs Code, which costs around AED 500 + setup filing charges. Additional deposits may apply based on the nature of goods.
Shipping & Logistics Setup:
Depending on the business model, logistics setup, including warehouse storage, shipping accounts, courier integrations, and inventory handling, can cost AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 for initial onboarding and agreements.
Bank Account Opening Cost:
Banks may require a minimum balance of AED 10,000 to AED 100,000, depending on the bank and account type. Some institutions also charge account setup or compliance review fees.
Annual Renewal Cost:
General Trading license renewals range from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000 annually, with additional costs for office renewals, immigration files, and visa renewals depending on company structure.
Dubai General Trading LLC vs E-Commerce License:
| Factor | Dubai General Trading LLC | E-Commerce License (Dubai / UAE Free Zones) |
| Overall Cost | Higher due to wider activities and approvals. Typical total: AED 18,000 – AED 35,000+ depending on emirate and office. | Usually lower. Typical total: AED 5,500 – AED 15,000 depending on free zone package. |
| Office Requirements | Physical office or flexi-desk is usually mandatory for mainland LLC. | Many free zones allow fully remote businesses with no mandatory office. |
| Visa Allocations | More generous visa quotas, 3 to unlimited visas depending on office size. | Smaller quota, 0 to 3 visas, depending on package. |
| Activity Scope | Broad, import, export, wholesale, distribution, trading multiple product categories. | Limited mainly to online selling, dropshipping, marketplaces, and digital commerce. |
| Profit Margins & Operational Costs | Higher operational cost due to logistics, warehousing, customs, insurance, and compliance, but typically higher margins for physical goods and bulk trade. | Lower operational cost since business is online-based, profit margins depend on product type, platform fees, and marketing spend. |
| Customs & Import Requirements | Must obtain Customs Import Code and follow import regulations. | Not required unless importing goods, online sellers can use fulfillment centers or third-party logistics. |
| Bank Account Opening | Mandatory business bank account; banks may require more documentation due to trading activity. | Easier, as e-commerce models are simpler; some banks offer online-business-friendly packages. |
Hidden Costs To Consider For a General Trading LLC License In Dubai:
When planning your general trading business setup, it’s important to account for additional expenses beyond the initial license fees. These hidden or ongoing costs include:
- Ejari / Office Lease
A physical office or flexi-desk with Ejari is mandatory in most mainland setups, and lease costs can vary by location. - P.O. Box Registration
Required for business correspondence with government authorities and clients. - UBO Filing (Ultimate Beneficial Owner Declaration)
A compulsory submission that must be updated if there are changes in ownership. - Corporate Tax Registration
Businesses generating taxable income must register and comply with UAE corporate tax regulations. - Audit & Accounting Requirements
Annual audit reports and compliant bookkeeping may be required depending on the entity structure. - Renewal Cost Variations
License renewal fees may increase due to business activity, location, or regulatory changes.
Get Your General Trading LLC License In Dubai With Now Consultant
Now Consultant helps businesses set up their General Trading LLC in Dubai quickly and efficiently, offering both mainland and free zone options. As a registered channel partner with multiple UAE free zones, we ensure your license application, office setup, and visa processing are fully compliant and completed with minimal hassle.
Why Choose Now Consultant:
- Lowest-cost packages for mainland and free zone licenses
- Fast and easy documentation and approvals
- 100% compliance with UAE government regulations
- Registered channel partner with major free zones across the UAE
- Expert guidance on office setup, visas, and additional business requirements
Is There A Mandatory Office Required For General Trading License?
Yes, most mainland setups require a physical office or flexi-desk (with valid lease and Ejari registration). Free-zone companies may offer flexi-desk or shared-office options depending on the jurisdiction.
What Is The Visa Cost For A General Trading LLC?
Visa costs depend on visa type and number (owner, employees, dependents), but generally range from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 per visa in initial processing. Additional charges apply for medical tests, Emirates ID, and processing fees.
How Much Does General Trading LLC License Renewal Cost Each Year?
The annual renewal of a General Trading LLC license in Dubai typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000, depending on the business activity, office size, number of visas, and whether the company is in the mainland or a free zone. This cost generally covers license renewal fees, office lease or Ejari, visa renewals, and other mandatory regulatory charges.
Can I Trade Any Product With A General Trading License?
A general trading license allows trading in a wide range of product categories, but some restricted or regulated items might need special approvals. Always confirm with authorities if dealing with regulated goods.
How Long Does It Take To Get A General Trading License In Dubai?
Once documentation is complete, licensing with free-zone or mainland authorities usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Additional time may be needed for office setup, visa processing, and bank account opening.v
What Is The Cheapest Free Zone For A General Trading Company?
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is one of the most budget-friendly free zones in Dubai for a General Trading LLC license. A zero‑visa license starts at AED 12,900, while a one‑visa package begins around AED 14,900, making it ideal for general trading business setup in dubai.
