International Trade
Conduct import/export operations with countries worldwide
Commercial Trade License in Dubai
Commercial Trade License for Dubai Business
Obtain your commercial trading license for import, export, and general trading activities in Dubai. Complete support from application to approval.
500+
Trading activities
100%
Foreign ownership
2-3 weeks
Processing time
Commercial Trade License in Dubai
A commercial trade license is essential for businesses engaged in trading activities in Dubai.
Commercial licenses are issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for businesses involved in buying, selling, importing, exporting, and distributing goods and products.
This license type is the most common and covers a wide range of trading activities including wholesale, retail, import/export, and general trading operations.
SetupGulf provides complete assistance in obtaining your commercial trade license, from selecting the right business activities to final approval and license issuance.
- Import and export of goods
- Wholesale and retail trading
- Distribution and supply chain operations
- E-commerce and online trading
- General trading activities
- Re-export and transit trade
Key Benefits
Benefits of Commercial Trade License
Advantages of obtaining a commercial license for your trading business.
Full Ownership
100% foreign ownership in most trading activities
Multiple Activities
Add multiple trading activities under one license
Logistics Freedom
Access to world-class ports and logistics infrastructure
Retail Operations
Open retail outlets and e-commerce platforms
Market Access
Access to UAE domestic market and GCC region
Trading Activities
Common Commercial Activities
Popular business activities covered under commercial license.
General Trading
Trading in various goods and commodities
Retail Trading
Retail shops and showrooms
Wholesale Trading
Bulk sales to businesses
Import/Export
International trade operations
E-Commerce
Online trading platforms
Distribution
Supply chain and distribution
Application Process
How to Obtain Commercial License
Step-by-step process for commercial license application.
1
Step 1
Business Planning
Define your trading activities and business requirements.
2
Step 2
Trade Name Approval
Reserve and get approval for your company trade name.
3
Step 3
Choose Location
Select mainland, free zone, or offshore jurisdiction.
4
Step 4
Prepare Documents
Gather required documents including passports and business plan.
5
Step 5
Submit Application
Submit complete application to DED or relevant authority.
6
Step 6
License Issuance
Receive your commercial trade license and start trading.
Documentation
Required Documents
Documents needed for commercial license application.
Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
Visa copies (if UAE residents)
Passport-size photographs
Proof of residential address
Business plan and activity description
Trade name approval certificate
Office lease agreement (Ejari)
Initial approval from DED
Pricing
Commercial License Cost
Transparent pricing for commercial license setup.
AED 15,000
Starting from
Mainland commercial license
AED 12,000
Free zone
Free zone commercial license
2-3 weeks
Timeline
From application to approval
Get Your Commercial License
Start your trading business in Dubai today
Request Commercial License Quote
Tell us about your trading activities and we'll provide a customized proposal.
Contact Information
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about commercial trade licenses.
A commercial trade license permits businesses to engage in trading activities including buying, selling, importing, exporting, and distributing goods in Dubai.
Commercial licenses cover general trading, wholesale, retail, import/export, e-commerce, distribution, and other trading-related activities.
Yes, you can include both wholesale and retail activities under one commercial license.
A warehouse is not mandatory but recommended for storage and distribution operations. Office space is required for license issuance.
Costs vary by jurisdiction (mainland vs free zone) and number of activities. Mainland licenses start from AED 15,000, free zone from AED 12,000.
Commercial licenses are typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Ready to start trading?
Launch Your Trading Business
Get your commercial license and start importing, exporting, and trading in Dubai.