Setting Up a General Trading Company in the UAE

A General Trading License in the UAE provides broad opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to engage in various trading activities. This license is ideal for those who wish to trade in multiple sectors without restricting their business activities to a specific category. A general trading license allows the business to import, export, distribute, and sell a wide range of goods and services.

Starting a General Trading Company in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most dynamic and diversified economies in the world, making it an attractive destination for international business and investment. With its strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the UAE has become a central hub for trade, commerce, and finance. The country’s stable political environment, modern infrastructure, and tax advantages provide a strong foundation for both local and international entrepreneurs.

The UAE is known for its free-market economy, open policies towards foreign investments, and its commitment to economic diversification, particularly in sectors like tourism, real estate, finance, and trade. The government has created a favorable regulatory environment to encourage businesses of all sizes and industries, offering multiple opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs.

A General Trade License is a popular choice among global entrepreneurs. It is a type of commercial license that allows businesses to engage in a wide range of trading activities, including the import, export, and distribution of various goods and products. This license offers flexibility to businesses operating across diverse sectors, such as electronics, textiles, construction materials, and food products. It’s important to understand that a General Trade License is different from a regular trading license. A regular trading license only permits you to trade within a single product category of an industry, while a general trading license allows you to trade in multiple products across various industries

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of starting a general trading company in the UAE, covering various aspects such as licensing, legal structures, and operational requirements.

Types of General Trading Licenses in the UAE

In the UAE, businesses must obtain a trade license before commencing any commercial activity. There are several types of trade licenses available, each catering to specific business needs. For general trading companies, the most relevant licenses are:

Commercial License: This is the most common type of trade license in the UAE. It allows businesses to engage in the import, export, and trade of a wide range of goods, including furniture, electronics, clothing, toys, and industrial equipment. It permits multiple trading activities under one license (up to 10 in Dubai). This license typically limits foreign ownership to 49% for mainland companies, with recent changes allowing 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors. However, certain products such as cars, alcohol, medical products, and weaponry are restricted and require specific licenses.
General Trading License: This license allows businesses to retail and wholesale any goods within the UAE and outside the UAE, except for prohibited goods that require approval from authorities. The scope of a general trading license is broader than a regular commercial license, allowing businesses to trade in a wider range of goods and engage in import and export activities.

Advantages of Different Trading License Types

Commercial and Industrial Licenses in the UAE

Commercial License

A commercial license offers several advantages for businesses in the UAE:

Flexibility: It allows businesses to operate multiple trade activities under one license, simplifying operations and reducing administrative burden.
Market Access: It enables businesses to import and export goods, opening doors to international trade and expanding market reach.
Banking Support: It facilitates access to banking support and trade incentives, making it easier to manage finances and secure funding.
Visa Sponsorship: It allows businesses to apply for multiple residence visas for employees, making it easier to hire and retain a skilled workforce.
Ease of Renewal: It offers cost-effective renewal options, simplifying the process of maintaining the license.

Industrial License

An industrial license provides specific benefits for manufacturing and production companies in the UAE:

Access to Industrial Zones: It grants access to dedicated industrial zones and warehouses, providing suitable infrastructure and facilities for manufacturing operations.
Tax and Customs Privileges: It may offer access to tax and customs privileges, depending on the nature of the production and export activities.
Government Support: It provides access to government support and incentives for industrial development, facilitating business growth and expansion.
Lower Utility Costs: Industrial license holders often enjoy reduced rates on essential utilities like electricity and water, lowering operational costs.

Requirements for General Trading Licenses in Different UAE Emirates

The specific requirements for obtaining a general trading license vary across different emirates in the UAE. Here’s a summary of the key requirements in some of the major emirates:

Abu Dhabi

Determine Business Activity and Legal Structure: Clearly define the specific activities your business will undertake and choose a suitable legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, branch of a foreign company).
Reserve a Trade Name: Choose a unique and appropriate trade name that complies with DED guidelines.
Secure a Physical Office Space: Obtain a tenancy contract for a physical office space in Abu Dhabi.
Apply for the Trade License: Submit the application along with the required documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Obtain Approvals from Other Entities: Depending on your business activity, you may need to obtain special permits or approvals from other relevant authorities.
Local Sponsor Requirement: For certain business activities and legal structures, a local sponsor may be required. The local sponsor, who must be a UAE national, will typically own 51% of the shares in the business.
Instant License: Abu Dhabi offers an “Instant License” option, allowing residents and visitors to obtain a trade license instantly. This option allows for combined trading, professional, and service-oriented activities, providing flexibility for entrepreneurs.

Dubai

Get Approval for Company Name: Submit three to four options for your company name reservation to the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Choose Legal Structure and Define Business Activities: Select a legal structure for your business and define the business activities you intend to carry out.
Submit Documents: Submit the required documents, including passport copies, visa copies, and Emirates ID, to a recognized center.
Free Zone Option: Foreign investors can also open a company in any of the Dubai free zone jurisdictions. Some free zones may require a minimum share capital for obtaining a general trading license.

Sharjah

Determine Business Activities: Select up to ten business activities from the Sharjah trade license activities list.
Select Business Legal Structure: Choose a legal structure that best suits your company (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC).
Decide on Business Name: Select a unique business name that complies with UAE guidelines.
Apply for Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD).
Get an Office Space: Secure a physical office space approved by the Sharjah Municipality.
Submit Trade License Application: Submit the application along with required documents to the relevant authority.
Local Sponsor for Craftsmanship Licenses: Each craftsmanship license requires a local sponsor who has no equity participation or liability to the business.

Ajman

Submit Application and Documents: Submit the application and required documents, including passport copies, visa copies, and trade name reservation certificate, to the service centers.
Get Third-Party Approval: Obtain approval from relevant authorities depending on the business activity.
Obtain Lease Contract Data: Secure a lease contract and provide the necessary data.
GCC Registration: Businesses must register with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as a prerequisite for obtaining a commercial license.
Pioneers Package: Ajman offers a “Pioneers Package” designed to support innovative businesses and startups. This package provides unique benefits and incentives to encourage entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Umm Al Quwain

Choose Licensing Type: Select the appropriate licensing type based on your business activities.
Select Business Entity: Choose a suitable business entity (e.g., Free Zone Establishment, Free Zone Company, Branch of an Existing Business).
Prepare and Submit Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including passport copies, visa copies, and trade name registration certificate, and submit them to the relevant authorities.
Physical Presence for Industrial License: Businesses applying for an industrial license must have a physical presence in the form of an office or warehouse. This ensures that industrial activities are conducted in designated areas with proper infrastructure.
Micro Business License: Umm Al Quwain offers a “Micro Business License” specifically for small businesses. This license has simplified requirements and lower costs, making it easier for small entrepreneurs to start their ventures.
Freelance Permit: Umm Al Quwain also offers a “Freelance Permit” that allows individuals to work as freelance professionals in their own name. This provides a flexible option for professionals in various fields to operate independently.

Ras Al Khaimah

Pick a Business Activity: Choose from the various license categories available in Ras Al Khaimah.
Identify a Trade Name: Select a trade name that complies with RAK naming regulations.
Select Business Structure: Choose a suitable business structure (e.g., LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Partnership).
Submit the Documents: Submit the required documents to the RAK Department of Economic Development (DED RAK).
Instant Licence: Ras Al Khaimah offers an “Instant Licence” option, allowing entrepreneurs to get a business license in 5 minutes. This streamlined process eliminates paperwork, physical visits, and waiting time, making it incredibly convenient for business setup.
Freelance Permit: Ras Al Khaimah also offers a freelance permit that allows individuals to operate as freelance professionals in fields like technology, media, and film. This provides a flexible option for professionals seeking independent work arrangements.

Fujairah

Choose Business Activity and Location: Select a suitable business activity and location that complies with local zoning regulations.
Obtain Approval from Relevant Authorities: Obtain necessary approvals from authorities like the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing or the Department of Health and Safety.
Complete Registration Process: Complete the registration process at the Fujairah Department of Economic Development, submit the required documents, and pay the fees.
Mainland Ownership Requirement: For mainland companies in Fujairah, businesses must be wholly owned by UAE nationals or have at least 51% ownership by nationals. However, there are exceptions for certain professional activities where expats can have full ownership with a local service agent.

Additional Approvals and Permits

In addition to the general requirements, certain business activities may require special approvals or permits from relevant authorities in the UAE. These approvals ensure compliance with specific regulations and industry standards. Here are some examples:

Ministry of Health: Approvals for pharmaceutical and medical companies.
Central Bank of the UAE: Approvals for financial institutions and banks.
Ministry of Finance and Industry: Approvals for industrial activities.
Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing: Approvals for tourism-related businesses.
Municipalities: Clearances for activities involving specific products like firearms, vehicles, alcoholic beverages, chemicals, and medical supplies.

Free Zone Options for Trading Licenses

The UAE offers numerous free zones, each with its own set of rules, regulations, and benefits. Some of the popular free zones for trading companies include:

Popular Free Zones

Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): UAE’s first free zone, established in 1985, hosting over 8,000 companies from over 100 countries. JAFZA has an adjacent port and is especially popular with trading companies.
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC): A strategic hub for companies dealing with commodities such as gold, tea, pearls, and precious stones. DMCC is the largest free zone in the UAE and features a prestigious location in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers district.
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO): One of the oldest and most established free zones in the UAE, established in 2003, located in Dubai Digital Park. DSO offers a good value for money proposition and has a professional incorporation process.
International Free Zone Authority (IFZA): One of the cheapest free zones in Dubai, offering digital signatures for easy company formation. IFZA is under the patronage of the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA).

Advantages of Setting Up in a Free Zone

Setting up a general trading company in a free zone offers several advantages:

100% foreign ownership: Free zones allow complete foreign ownership of businesses, eliminating the need for a local sponsor.
Tax exemptions: Free zone companies are exempt from corporate and personal income tax, providing significant financial benefits.
Full repatriation of capital and profits: Businesses can freely repatriate their capital and profits to their home country without any restrictions.
No customs duties: Free zones offer exemption from customs duties on imports and exports within the free zone.
Simplified company setup process: Free zones have streamlined processes for company formation, making it easier and faster to establish a business.
Inward Redomiciliation: Some free zones, including ADGM, JAFZA, DMCC, and RAK FTZ, allow for inward redomiciliation of foreign companies, enabling a transfer of corporate seat to a UAE free zone.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Free Zone

When selecting a free zone for your general trading company, consider the following factors:

Industry Focus: Each free zone often specializes in specific industries. Choose a free zone that aligns with your business activities and offers relevant support and expertise.
Location: Consider the location of the free zone in relation to your target market, transportation links, and access to suppliers and customers.
Cost: Free zones have varying costs for licenses, office space, and visas. Evaluate the overall cost of setting up and operating in different free zones.
Infrastructure: Assess the quality of infrastructure, including office spaces, warehouses, and logistics facilities, to ensure it meets your business needs.

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Documents Required for a Trading License

Document	Purpose
Passport copies	For identification and verification of shareholders and business owners
UAE visa copy or entry stamp	For residency validation (for residents)
Proof of residence	To confirm residential address
Trade name reservation certificate	To officially register the business name
Initial approval certificate	To indicate government approval for the business activity
Memorandum of Association (MOA)	To detail shareholder roles and capital distribution (for mainland businesses)
Lease agreement or Ejari certificate	To confirm business premises
No Objection Certificate (NOC)	Required for individuals already employed in the UAE

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Comparing Commercial, Industrial, and Professional Licenses

Feature	Commercial License	Industrial License	Professional License
Purpose	Trading, importing, and exporting goods	Manufacturing, production, and packaging	Providing services based on skills and expertise
Activities	Buying and selling goods, import/export, distribution	Manufacturing, processing, assembling	Consultancy, legal services, accounting, IT services
Ownership	Mainland: Typically 49% foreign ownership (100% in some sectors) Free Zone: 100% foreign ownership	Mainland: May require local sponsor Free Zone: 100% foreign ownership	Mainland: May require local service agent Free Zone: 100% foreign ownership
Liability	Limited liability	Limited liability	Typically unlimited liability (unless registered as LLC)
Visa Quota	Allows multiple visas based on business size and office space	Allows visas based on the number of employees and office space	Usually limited to 1-2 visas
Office Requirements	Required for mainland companies	Requires physical industrial space or warehouse	May or may not require office space
Cost	Varies by emirate and free zone	Varies by emirate and free zone	Varies by emirate and free zone

Key Differences Between Mainland and Free Zone Licenses

Feature	Mainland License	Free Zone License
Market Access	Unrestricted trade within the UAE and internationally	Restricted trade within the UAE; requires local distributor
Ownership	Typically requires a local sponsor (51% ownership)	100% foreign ownership allowed
Tax Benefits	Subject to corporate tax	0% corporate tax
Customs Duty	5% customs duty on imports and exports	Often duty-free within the free zone
Regulations	Subject to UAE commercial laws	Governed by the specific free zone’s regulations

Time Frame for Setting Up a General Trading Company

The time frame for setting up a general trading company in the UAE can vary depending on the chosen jurisdiction, the complexity of the business activities, and the efficiency of the application process. In general, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months.

Mainland Company Formation:

The preliminary steps, such as business activity selection, name reservation, and initial approvals, can take a few days to a few weeks.
The drafting and notarization of the MOA may take a couple of weeks.
The issuance of the trade license and completion of registration with the DED can take around 1 to 2 weeks.

Free Zone Company Formation:

Free zone company formation is generally faster than mainland formation.
The time frame can vary between different free zones, but the process usually takes around 1 to 4 weeks, including company registration and license issuance.

The standard processing time for obtaining a General Trading License in Dubai is typically 7 to 14 business days, assuming all requirements are met.

Types of Businesses That Require a General Trade License

A General Trade License is suitable for businesses involved in the import, export, and trade of a wide range of goods and products. This includes businesses dealing with:

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG): This includes businesses selling consumer goods like packaged food and beverages.
Electronics: Companies dealing in hardware, gadgets, or appliances.
Textiles and Apparel: Clothing manufacturers and distributors.
Automotive Parts: Importers and sellers of vehicle components.
Furniture, electronics, apparel, and industrial equipment.
Online selling.

It’s important to note that certain products, such as automobiles, alcoholic beverages, and medical supplies, may have restrictions and require specific licenses for import or export.

Process for Obtaining a General Trade License in Dubai

Dubai offers two primary jurisdictions for businesses – Mainland and Free Zones. Mainland companies are regulated by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and may require a local sponsor or partner, depending on the business activity. Free Zones, on the other hand, allow 100% foreign ownership and offer various benefits such as tax exemptions and simplified business regulations. The process of obtaining a General Trade License can be complex, and seeking assistance from business setup consultants may be beneficial. The process generally involves the following steps:

Choose Business Activities: Determine the specific activities your business will engage in and ensure they align with the permitted categories under a General Trade License.
Choose Your Location: Decide whether to establish your business in Mainland Dubai, a Free Zone, or Offshore. Each location has different regulations and requirements.
Decide Company Structure: The legal structure of a business, such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or branch company, impacts the requirements for a General Trade License. Choose a legal structure that aligns with your business needs and ownership preferences.
Trade Name Reservation: Select a unique and suitable name for your business that complies with UAE naming conventions and register it.
Get Approvals: Submit a request for initial approval of your business. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain additional approvals from relevant authorities.
Find Office Space: Secure a physical office space if required, especially for Mainland businesses. Free Zones may offer flexible options like flexi-desk solutions.
License Application: Submit the completed application form along with the necessary documents and fees to the relevant authority (DED for Mainland or the respective Free Zone authority). You can choose between different types of licenses, such as a normal license, instant license, or DED trader license.
Entry Permit/Visa Processing: If you require visas for yourself or employees, complete the visa application process, including obtaining an entry permit, status change, and Emirates ID registration.

Documents Required for a General Trade License in Dubai

The required documents may vary depending on the business structure, shareholders, jurisdiction, and other factors. Here’s a categorized list of some common documents:

Identity Verification:

Passport copies of all shareholders and partners.
Passport-size photographs.
UAE residence visa (if applicable).
Emirates ID (if applicable).

Business Details:

Business plan outlining the nature of trading activities, target market, and financial projections.
Tenancy contract for the business premises in Dubai.

Legal Requirements:

Trade Name Reservation Certificate.
Memorandum of Association (MOA) (if applicable).
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current employer (if applicable).

Cost of Obtaining and Maintaining a General Trade License in Dubai

The cost of obtaining a General Trade License in Dubai varies depending on several factors, including the chosen jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone), business activities, company structure, visa requirements, and office space. The approximate cost of a General Trading License in Dubai ranges from AED 12,500 to 35,000. The total cost of registering a trade license in Dubai can range from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000.

Cost Category	Mainland Dubai	Free Zones
License Fees	AED 12,500 to AED 15,000	Similar to Mainland, may be lower in some Free Zones
Additional Fees	DED Activity fees (AED 15,000), Trade Name Reservation cost (AED 620)	May vary depending on the Free Zone
Maintenance Costs	Annual renewal fees, visa renewals, office rent, administrative costs	Annual renewal fees, visa renewals, office rent, administrative costs

Additional Costs:

Visa fees for investors and employees.
Office rental costs.
Document clearing costs.
Trademark registration.
Initial approval fees.
Notarisation of MOA.
Sponsorship fees (if applicable).
Customs registration for import, export, transit, and transfer of goods.
Higher capital requirements.

Cost of a General Trading License in the UAE

The cost of obtaining a General Trading License in the UAE varies across emirates and free zones. This section provides an overview of costs in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.

Abu Dhabi

The cost of a commercial license in Abu Dhabi can range from AED 10,000 to AED 70,000. The average cost of a trade license in Abu Dhabi is approximately AED 20,000. Free zone licenses, such as in KIZAD, can start from AED 11,000. Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) offers different license types including Tajer Abu Dhabi and Instant Trade License.

License Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
General Commercial License (Mainland)	10,000 – 70,000	Varies based on business activity, shareholders, and employees. Average around AED 20,000.
Free Zone License (KIZAD)	From 11,000	Starting cost in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD).
Tajer Abu Dhabi License	To be confirmed	Specifically for e-commerce businesses, no office space required.
Instant Trade License	To be confirmed	Quick setup for sole proprietorships and partnerships, minimal paperwork, online process.

Note: These costs may vary based on the specific business activities, the company’s legal structure, and office space requirements. It’s essential to confirm the exact cost with the relevant authorities.

Sharjah

License Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
General Trading License	5,000 – 30,000+	Cost range depending on the specific license and business activities.
Sharjah Airport Int’l Free Zone (SAIF Zone)	5,000 – 30,000	Free zone costs within the general Sharjah range.
Sharjah Media City Free Zone (SHAMS)	6,875	Specific free zone cost for media-related businesses.

Ajman

License Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
General Trading License (LLC)	14,000	Cost for Limited Liability Company structure.
General Trading License	35,150	Cost mentioned as one of the lowest for General Trading Licenses in the UAE. GCC registration is required.

Ras Al Khaimah

License Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
General Trading License	10,000 – 20,000	Cost range for General Trading Licenses in Ras Al Khaimah.
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)	15,000	Free zone cost within RAKEZ.

Umm Al Quwain

License Type	Approximate Cost (AED)	Notes
Smart Business License (1 visa)	16,500	Lower cost option with limited visa quota.
Regular Trading/Consultancy License (2 visas)	20,500	Standard license with a quota of 2 visas.
Premium Consultancy License (3 visas)	32,500	Higher cost option with a larger visa quota.
General Trading License (3 visas)	27,500	Cost for general trading activities with 3 visas included.

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Legal Structures for Trading Companies in the UAE

The UAE offers various legal structures for setting up a trading company, each with its own advantages and considerations:

Sole Proprietorship:

This structure is suitable for individuals who want complete control over their business. However, it comes with unlimited liability, meaning personal assets are not protected from business debts.

Limited Liability Company (LLC):

This is the most common company type in the UAE, offering limited liability to shareholders, protecting their personal assets from business debts. LLCs require a minimum of two shareholders.

Partnership Company:

This structure involves two or more partners who share profits, losses, and liabilities. In a simple limited partnership, UAE nationals must be general partners, while partners of other nationalities must be limited partners.

Civil Company:

This structure is for professional businesses like consultancy firms, where the partners are the sole owners. If no UAE or GCC nationals are partners, a local service agent is needed.

Free Zone Company (FZC):

This structure allows 100% foreign ownership and offers tax benefits, but may have restrictions on trading directly in the local UAE market.

Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC):

Suitable for large enterprises, this structure requires a minimum of 10 founders and allows public trading of shares. The chairman and majority of directors must be UAE nationals.

Private Joint Stock Company:

Similar to a PJSC but with shares not offered to the public, this structure requires a minimum of three shareholders.

Tax Implications for Trading Companies in the UAE

The UAE has a favorable tax environment for businesses, with the following taxes applicable to trading companies:

Corporate Tax:

Introduced in 2023, the corporate tax rate is 9% for taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. Companies with taxable profits up to AED 375,000 are not subject to corporate tax. Free zone companies may be exempt from corporate tax if they meet certain conditions.

Value Added Tax (VAT):

Implemented in 2018, VAT is levied at a standard rate of 5% on most goods and services. Some goods and services are zero-rated or exempt from VAT. Businesses must register for VAT if their annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000.

Customs Duties:

A 5% customs duty is imposed on the CIF value of most imports. Exemptions and reliefs may be available for certain goods.

Excise Tax:

Excise tax is levied on specific goods deemed harmful to health or the environment, such as tobacco, energy drinks, and carbonated drinks, at rates ranging from 50% to 100%.

VAT for Trading Companies in the UAE

VAT is an indirect tax on the consumption or use of goods and services levied at the point of sale. The standard VAT rate in the UAE is 5%.

VAT Applicability:

VAT applies to most goods and services, with some exceptions and zero-rated supplies.
Businesses must register for VAT if their annual taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000.
Voluntary registration is available for businesses with supplies and imports exceeding AED 187,500.

VAT on Imports:

VAT is applied at 5% on the customs value of imported goods.
VAT-registered businesses can recover the import VAT.
Exemptions and zero-rated items exist for certain imports.

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How We Assist You in Setting Up a General Trading Company in the UAE

Navigating the process of setting up a general trading company in the UAE can be complex and time-consuming. With various legal structures, tax implications, and regulatory requirements to consider, it’s essential to have expert guidance every step of the way. Here’s how we can assist you:

1. Comprehensive Business Setup Support:

✅Guidance on Legal Structure: We help you choose the optimal legal structure for your trading company, whether it’s a Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or a Free Zone Company, considering your ownership preferences, liability concerns, and business objectives.
✅Trade Name Registration: We assist with selecting and registering a trade name that complies with UAE naming conventions and reflects your brand identity.
✅License Application: We guide you through the entire licensing process, ensuring your application is complete and accurate, and meets all requirements of the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
✅Visa Processing: We help you obtain the necessary visas for yourself, your employees, and your dependents, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
✅Office Space Solutions: We assist in finding the right office space for your business, whether it’s on the mainland or in a free zone, considering your budget and operational needs.
✅Documents Attestation and Translation Services: We provide assistance with document attestation and translation services, ensuring all your documents are legally valid and accurately translated for official purposes.

3. Streamlined Processes and Efficient Solutions:

✅Fast-Track License Acquisition: We offer expedited services to help you obtain your trade license quickly and efficiently, minimizing delays and ensuring a smooth setup process.
✅Dedicated Support: Our team of experts provides personalized support throughout the company formation process, answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
✅Minimizing Challenges: We help you overcome common challenges faced by businesses in the UAE, such as navigating complex regulations, understanding cultural norms, and managing costs.

4. Ongoing Compliance and Support:

✅License Renewal: We assist with annual license renewals, ensuring you meet deadlines and avoid penalties.
✅Accounting and Bookkeeping: We provide accounting and bookkeeping services to help you maintain accurate financial records and comply with UAE regulations.
✅Legal and Regulatory Updates: We keep you informed about any changes in UAE laws and regulations that may impact your business.

By partnering with us, you can confidently navigate the complexities of setting up a general trading company in the UAE. Our expertise and support ensure a smooth and efficient process, allowing you to focus on building a successful business in this thriving economy.

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Marriage Certificate Attestation
Birth Certificate Attestation
School Leaving Certificate Attestation
Divorce Certificate Attestation
Transfer Certificate Attestation
Medical Certificate Attestation
Death Certificate Attestation
Experience Certificate Attestation

Commercial Documents

Board Resolution Attestation
Commercial Invoices Attestation
Certificate of Origin Attestation
Memorandum of Article Attestation
Shareholders Resolution Attestation
Certificate of Incorporation Attestation
Memorandum of Association Attestation
Articles of Association Attestation

Embassies Attestation

Setting Up a General Trading Company in the UAE

Starting a General Trading Company in the UAE

Types of General Trading Licenses in the UAE

Advantages of Different Trading License Types

Commercial and Industrial Licenses in the UAE

Commercial License

Industrial License

Requirements for General Trading Licenses in Different UAE Emirates

Abu Dhabi

Dubai

Sharjah

Ajman

Umm Al Quwain

Ras Al Khaimah

Fujairah

Additional Approvals and Permits

Free Zone Options for Trading Licenses

Popular Free Zones

Advantages of Setting Up in a Free Zone

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Free Zone

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Documents Required for a Trading License

Fast Services for Business setup in UAE

Comparing Commercial, Industrial, and Professional Licenses

Key Differences Between Mainland and Free Zone Licenses

Time Frame for Setting Up a General Trading Company

Mainland Company Formation:

Free Zone Company Formation:

Types of Businesses That Require a General Trade License

Process for Obtaining a General Trade License in Dubai

Documents Required for a General Trade License in Dubai

Identity Verification:

Business Details:

Legal Requirements:

Cost of Obtaining and Maintaining a General Trade License in Dubai

Additional Costs:

Cost of a General Trading License in the UAE

Abu Dhabi

Sharjah

Ajman

Ras Al Khaimah

Umm Al Quwain

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Legal Structures for Trading Companies in the UAE

Sole Proprietorship:

Limited Liability Company (LLC):

Partnership Company:

Civil Company:

Free Zone Company (FZC):

Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC):

Private Joint Stock Company:

Tax Implications for Trading Companies in the UAE

Corporate Tax:

Value Added Tax (VAT):

Customs Duties:

Excise Tax:

VAT for Trading Companies in the UAE

VAT Applicability:

VAT on Imports:

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How We Assist You in Setting Up a General Trading Company in the UAE

1. Comprehensive Business Setup Support:

3. Streamlined Processes and Efficient Solutions:

4. Ongoing Compliance and Support:

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