Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a general trading license in Dubai used for?
It allows you to import, export, and sell a variety of goods without restriction to a single product category.
2. Can I trade online with a general trading license?
Yes, you can. At Meydan Free Zone, a general trading licence allows you to sell goods both online and offline — whether through retail or wholesale channels.
3. How long does it take to get a general trading license from Meydan?
With Fawri, you can receive your license within 60 minutes after submitting your documents and completing payment.
4. What documents do I need to apply?
You will need a copy of your passport. Additional documents may apply depending on your business structure.
5. Is office space required in Meydan Free Zone?
No. You can choose to operate with a flexi-desk and upgrade later if needed.
6. Can I apply for visas with my trading license?
Yes. Meydan Free Zone offers licenses with or without visa allocations, depending on your requirements.
7. What is the benefit of using Meydan Free Zone?
You get a fast, digital setup, full ownership, and access to over 2500+ business activities — all with built-in compliance and advisory support.
8. Can I sponsor employees under this license?
Yes. You can allocate visas based on your license package and scale up as your business grows.
Topic Summary
1. Understand the Scope and Benefits
A general trading license in Meydan Free Zone enables businesses to trade a wide range of goods under one licence, including import, export, distribution, and re-export activities. This flexibility streamlines operations by eliminating the need for multiple specialised licences, making it ideal for companies seeking to diversify their product portfolio.
2. Determine Eligibility and Business Activity
Before applying, ensure that your business activities align with the permitted trading categories within Meydan Free Zone. The license covers several goods, but it is essential to verify that your intended products are permissible. Additionally, confirm your eligibility as per Meydan Free Zone’s criteria, including legal structure and business purpose.
3. Prepare Required Documentation
Applicants must collate essential documents such as a completed application form, copy of passport(s) of shareholder(s) and manager(s), business plan, proof of address, and board resolution if applicable. A detailed description of trading activities and product categories to be dealt with should also be provided to facilitate the approval process.
4. Submit Application and Pay Fees
Lodge your application through the official Meydan Free Zone Authority channels, either online or in person. Upon submission, pay the prescribed fees, which generally cover license registration, office space (if applicable), and other administrative charges. Processing times may vary, so ensure timely follow-ups for efficient approval.
5. Obtain Licence and Commence Operations
Once the application is approved, you will receive the general trading license, enabling you to commence business activities legally within the free zone and beyond. It is important to maintain compliance with all Meydan Free Zone regulations and renew your licence annually to sustain uninterrupted operations.
How to Apply for a General Trading License in Meydan Free Zone
Looking to launch a business that gives you the flexibility to trade a wide range of goods?
A general trading license in Dubai is one of the most efficient ways to get started.
With global trade gaining momentum, this license allows you to import, export, distribute, and re-export various products under one license, without having to apply separately for each category.
The opportunity is well-supported by official numbers: wholesale and retail trade is Dubai’s largest GDP sector, reaching AED 83.12 billion in the first nine months of 2024 and contributing 24.5% of the emirate’s total GDP¹. Trading businesses account for the largest share of new companies joining Dubai’s business ecosystem, underscoring the demand for general trading structures.
This guide explains how to apply, the key requirements, and why setting up with Meydan Free Zone gives you a faster, digital-first advantage when starting your business setup in Dubai.
Dubai's business environment is drawing new companies in record numbers, and a general trading license is the most common structure founders use to enter the market quickly and operate across multiple product categories from day one.
Source: Dubai Chamber of Commerce via UAE Media Office (mediaoffice.ae), January 2025
70,500 new companies joined Dubai’s business ecosystem in 2024, with trading and services as the leading sector
Dubai’s business environment is drawing new companies in record numbers, and a general trading license is the most common structure founders use to enter the market quickly and operate across multiple product categories from day one.
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Understanding What is a General Trading License in Dubai
A general trading license is a type of commercial license in Dubai that allows businesses to deal in multiple goods and product categories.
You can trade everything from electronics and packaging materials to clothing and even furniture under a single license.
It is ideal for businesses involved in wholesale, retail, e-commerce, or import-export activities.
Unlike specific trading licenses, a general trading license does not limit you to one type of product.
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Benefits of a General Trading License in Dubai
There are several benefits of a general trading license in Dubai, especially for businesses that want operational flexibility and the ability to scale:
- Trade a wide range of unrelated products under one license
- Easy access to regional and international markets
- Streamlined import-export processes
- No personal income tax in the UAE
- 100 percent foreign ownership in free zones like Meydan
- Fast-track digital setup with Meydan Free Zone
This license is often used by startups, SMEs, and investors who want to launch fast, with room to grow into new product lines over time.
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Apply for a General Trading License in Meydan Free Zone
Here is a simple breakdown of the trade license application process at Meydan Free Zone:
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This process eliminates paperwork and delays, making your general trading company setup in Dubai fast and efficient.
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General Trading License Requirements in Dubai
To meet the general trading license requirements in Dubai, you must:
- Have a valid business activity list
- Provide personal identification documents
- Select a legal structure (LLC is the most secure)
- Register a trade name that meets UAE guidelines
- Obtain import-export code from customs (if required)
- Comply with any sector-specific regulations (for restricted goods)
Meydan Free Zone supports you through every step, including regulatory advice, document preparation, and digital application tracking.
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Reasons Why You Should Choose Meydan Free Zone For Your General Trading License
| Criteria | Mainland | Other Free Zones | Meydan Free Zone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Ownership | May require local sponsor | Up to 100 percent | 100 percent with full repatriation |
| Setup Time | Several days | Varies by zone | Under 60 minutes |
| Licensing Process | In-person and document-heavy | Partially digital | Fully digital, all-online |
| Office Requirement | Mandatory | Often mandatory | Optional (digital office supported) |
| Business Activity Flexibility | Limited by DED approvals | Limited in some zones | Broad list of over 2500+ activities |
| Visa Support | Yes | Varies | Full support included |
Cost of a General Trading License in Dubai
While exact prices may vary, the cost of a general trading license in Dubai generally falls into these ranges:
- Meydan Free Zone License: Starting from AED 12,500, depending on visa allocation and business structure.*
- Mainland License: Often ranges from AED 25,000 and above due to added fees and office requirements.
- Other Free Zones: Varies widely by location and inclusions
*Always consult directly with Meydan Free Zone to get a custom quote based on your specific needs.
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Citations
¹ Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism / UAE Media Office. Dubai’s GDP Expands by 3.1% in the First Nine Months of 2024 to Reach AED 339.4 Billion. UAE Media Office, February 2025.
Infographic source: Dubai Chamber of Commerce / UAE Media Office. 70,000 New Companies Join Dubai Chamber of Commerce in 2024 Bringing Total Number of Members to More Than 258,000. UAE Media Office, January 2025.
