Get Your Dubai Trading License Fast
With over 12 years of experience, Aspira is your trusted business partner for obtaining the best trading license in Dubai. We manage the full process—name reservation, paperwork, approvals, and bank setup—ensuring you trade legally and efficiently.
What is a Trading License in Dubai?
A Trading License legally allows your business to import, export, distribute, or sell products within and outside the UAE. It’s mandatory for any trading activity in Dubai—even re-selling or drop‑shipping. With a valid license, you can clear customs and operate with full legal compliance.
Why Do You Need a Trading License in Dubai?
- Legal authorization for import, export, and domestic product sales
- Access customs clearance and avoid fines
- Build credibility with customers, suppliers, and banks
- Avoid business disruption from unlicensed trading activities
- Conduct local and international transactions with confidence
Types of Trading Licenses Available in Dubai
General Trading License
Covers multiple product categories across various industries.
Perfect for businesses that deal in varied imports or wholesale goods.
Ideal if you’re unsure which products you’ll sell first.
Commercial Trading License
Covers one or a few related product categories (e.g. cosmetics, foodstuffs, electronics).
Best for dedicated traders or niche product suppliers.
E‑commerce Trading License
Designed for online stores, dropshipping, and digital retail.
Enables shipping directly to domestic and global customers.
Lower cost setup and online compliance focus.
Import & Export License
Grants rights to handle international shipping, customs, and cross-border trading.
Helps you manage logistics, port clearance, and global suppliers.
Mainland vs. Free Zone – Where to Set Up Your Trading Business
Mainland Trading License
Access all UAE emirates for trading and distribution.
Can bid for government contracts and supply UAE-based businesses.
Requires office space with registered Ejari.
Ideal for retail outlets, local distributors, and B2B traders.
Free Zone Trading License
You get full foreign ownership with no local partner requirement.
No import duties within the Free Zone; perfect for re-export businesses.
Quick licensing and simplified renewals.
Appropriate for international trade, e-commerce, logistics, and product sourcing hubs.
Aspira helps match your business strategy to the right setup—balancing cost, access, and flexibility.
How to Get a Trading License in Dubai – Step‑by‑Step
Choose Your License Type
Pick among General, Commercial, E‑commerce, or Import/Export licenses based on your product and scale.
Select Jurisdiction: Mainland or Free Zone
Mainland license for local UAE trading and government deals. Free Zone license for export focus or 100% foreign ownership.
Reserve Your Trade Name
We help you select and register a name that follows UAE naming guidelines and is unique.
Submit Required Documents
Once the trade name is approved, submit passport copies, address proofs, visa stamps, and any relevant certifications.
Receive Initial Approval
The authority (DED or Free Zone) grants initial clearance. At this stage, you can finalize premises and logistics.
Arrange Office or Warehouse Space (if needed)
For Mainland, you must secure physical premises and Ejari registration. Free Zone may allow flexi-desk solutions.
Obtain Your Trading License
After approvals and lease setup, you’ll receive your official license—legally allowing trade in designated goods.
Open a Business Bank Account
With your license and documents, Aspira helps you apply with a bank to activate corporate facilities for payments, collections, and trade finance.
Costs of a Trading License in Dubai
We offer transparent pricing so you can plan confidently.
| License Type | Starting Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| General Trading | 15,000 | License fee, initial approvals, name reservation |
| Commercial Trading | 12,000 | Single category license |
| E‑commerce | 6,000 | Low-cost option for digital traders |
These costs include government fees, document processing, license issuance, and basic consultation. Additional items such as office lease, warehouse space, visa quotas, and expedited approvals may slightly increase the cost—but we always share a clear breakdown before you commit.
Documents Required for a Trading License
Gathering documentation is one of the most time-consuming steps. Here’s what we typically need:
Passport copies for all shareholders or directors
UAE visa or entry stamp copies (if you’re already inside UAE)
Proof of address (like a utility bill or bank statement)
Trade name reservation confirmation
Brief description of the business activity and intended goods
Ejari or lease agreement (for Mainland setups or warehouse spaces)
Aspira prepares a checklist specific to your profile and assists you at every step—from collection to submission.
Why Choose Aspira for Your Trading License in Dubai?
12+ Years of Experience setting up trading businesses across all sectors
Professional Support with dedicated consultants to guide you from start to finish
Clear Pricing that outlines costs upfront—no surprise charges
Faster Processing through strong relationships with licensing authorities
Comprehensive Service covering name reservation, licensing, visas, document delivery, and more
We know the trade licensing process like no other. You get legal compliance with minimal hassle.
Start Your Trading Business Today – Free Consultation
Want clarity and confidence as you begin trading in Dubai?
Aspira offers:
Free trading license consultation
A clear quote based on your license type and needs
Fully managed setup—from name approval to bank account
📞 Contact Aspira today or submit your details in our form.
Let’s start your UAE trading journey—smooth, secure, and smart.