How to Get a General Trading (Import-Export) License in Dubai, UAE

Dubai has built its global reputation as a business gateway through trade.

From electronics and textiles to machinery and consumer goods, entrepreneurs from around the world are tapping into the city's potential by securing an import and export license in Dubai.

Whether you are launching an e-commerce supply chain, building a wholesale trading firm, or creating a logistics-led distribution network, a general trading license is your key to unlocking UAE and global markets.

Overview of the Import and Export License in Dubai

An import and export license allows businesses to legally bring goods into the UAE and re-export them to international markets.

This license is also referred to as a General Trading License, especially when it covers multiple, unrelated product categories under one entity.

At its core, this license gives your business the ability to:

• Import goods into the UAE for sale or distribution​
• Export UAE-sourced or imported goods globally​
• Conduct international trade and fulfil e-commerce or B2B orders​
• Access free zone and mainland logistics services​
• Work with customs departments to ensure legal movement of goods

Advantages of Starting an Import-Export Business in Dubai

With Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, ports, and trade-friendly regulation, it remains one of the best places to launch an international trading business.

Key benefits include:

• Access to more than 2 billion consumers across EMEA and Asia​
• No corporate or personal income tax for most free zone businesses​
• 100% foreign ownership in free zones like Meydan​
• Full profit repatriation and flexible banking options​
• Strong legal protection and fast customs clearance systems

Choosing the right jurisdiction, such as Meydan Free Zone, gives your company both regulatory simplicity and competitive reach.

Steps to Get an Import and Export License in Dubai

Here is a simplified overview of how to get an import license in UAE, particularly through Meydan Free Zone:

• Step 1: Choose Your Business Activities​
  Include trading activities across the product categories you wish to import or export. This can include textiles, electronics, consumer goods, and more.
• Step 2: Reserve a Trade Name​
  Select and register a legal trade name in compliance with UAE naming rules.
• Step 3: Apply for Your General Trading License​
  Submit your trade license application through the Meydan Free Zone platform. The license covers all standard import-export permissions.
• Step 4: Register with Dubai Customs​
  To legally move goods across borders, you must apply for an import-export code in Dubai through Dubai Customs.
• Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account and Start Trading​
  Once your company is registered and customs code is active, you can start trading legally and issue invoices, import shipments, or sign export deals.

Understanding the Import License Cost in Dubai

The import license cost in Dubai depends on your license type, visa requirements, and business activity selection.

Since the import-export license is issued as a General Trading License, the cost can vary based on whether you select a visa or non-visa package.

Here is a general breakdown:

• Meydan Free Zone setup: Starts from approximately AED 12,500 (non-visa package)​
• Customs registration: Additional government fees apply when applying for an import-export code​
• Bank account setup: Handled through Meydan Plus banking partners (costs vary by bank)
• Import-export code: Issued via Dubai Customs for a nominal fee​

Unlike many other jurisdictions, Meydan Free Zone includes a flexi desk workspace as part of your business license.

This meets the office requirement for licensing and ensures you are compliant with UAE regulations without needing to lease a physical office.

You can scale your license later if you require dedicated space, multiple visas, or a different legal structure.

Comparison of the General Trading License Options in Dubai

Popular Categories for Import-Export Dubai Businesses

If you are researching the best import export businesses in Dubai, here are the common high-demand sectors:

• Electronics and mobile accessories​
• Auto parts and accessories​
• Apparel and fashion​
• Food and beverages (requires added clearance)​
• Packaging and logistics materials​
• Industrial tools and machinery​
• Office and school supplies

The flexibility of a general trading license allows businesses to operate across several of these segments under a single registration.

FAQs

1. What is an import and export license in Dubai?​

It is a commercial license that allows businesses to legally import goods into and export goods out of the UAE.

2. Is a general trading license the same as an import-export license?​

Yes. In most cases, a general trading license includes permission to import and export a variety of goods.

3. How to apply for import export code in Dubai?​

You can register with Dubai Customs online or through a registered PRO. This code is required to clear shipments at UAE ports.

4. What is the import export license cost in UAE?​

Costs vary. A free zone license starts around AED 12,500. Additional fees apply for customs registration, visas, and bank accounts.

5. Can I trade internationally with a free zone license?​

Yes. You can import and export globally, but local sales may require a distributor or mainland trade agreement.

6. What products can I trade with this license?​

Most consumer, industrial, and commercial goods are allowed. Regulated items like food or pharmaceuticals may require extra clearance.

7. How long does it take to get the license from Meydan Free Zone?​

You can receive your license in under 60 minutes with Meydan Free Zone’s all-digital process.

8. Can I sponsor employees under this license?​

Yes. You can choose visa-inclusive packages and apply for staff visas under your company license.

9. What is the best import export business in Dubai?​

Popular choices include electronics, auto parts, clothing, packaging supplies, and food distribution.