A general trading license serves as your legal gateway to conducting business in the UAE, allowing you to import, export, and distribute a wide variety of products across multiple sectors.
This versatile license type eliminates the need for separate permits for different product categories, giving you the freedom to adapt your business as market opportunities arise.
Without proper licensing, businesses face hefty fines, legal complications, and potential closure, making it essential for anyone serious about establishing a legitimate commercial presence in this growing economic hub.
Cheapest Options for General Trading License
1. IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)
offers one of the most affordable general trading licenses in the UAE, starting at AED 9,500 per annum. The package includes a business license, an immigration card, and basic office space options. Additional services cover company registration, initial approvals, and access to their business center facilities.
2. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)
SHAMS offers competitive rates starting at AED 12,000 per year, along with flexible office solutions. The cost breakdown includes license fees, government approvals, and access to shared workspace. Benefits include streamlined processing, multimedia-friendly regulations, and proximity to Dubai while maintaining lower operational costs.
3. SPC Free Zone (Sharjah Publishing City)
SPC offers attractive packages starting from AED 11,500 with significant discounts for multi-year commitments. Their flexible approach allows businesses to choose from various office configurations and visa allocations. Multi-year contracts can reduce costs by up to 20%, making it ideal for long-term business planning.
4. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
RAKEZ offers highly cost-effective solutions starting from AED 10,000 annually, with excellent scalability options. The zone provides comprehensive support services, modern infrastructure, and easy expansion possibilities. Their packages are designed to grow with your business, offering upgrade paths as your operations expand.
5. Dubai DED’s Instant License Program
The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) offers streamlined licensing processes, with fees starting at around AED 15,000 for general trading activities. The program provides faster approval times and reduced documentation requirements for qualifying businesses. However, mainland licenses require local sponsorship arrangements and have stricter office space requirements compared to free zone alternatives.
Cost and Requirement Breakdown for General Trading License
Jurisdiction | Starting Cost (AED) | Office Requirement | Visa Quota | Other Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dubai DED (Mainland) | 15,000 | Physical office required | 1+ (depends on space) | Local sponsor fee, tenancy contract, insurance |
IFZA | 11,900 | Flexi-desk (optional) | 0–3 | Immigration card, medical, Emirates ID |
SPC Free Zone | 6,500 | No office required | 0–6 (by package) | Visa, Emirates ID, and health insurance |
SHAMS | 8,050 | Shared desk | 0–6 | Name approval, e-channel registration |
RAKEZ | 11,500 | Shared workspace/flexi | 0–4 | Establishment card, license activation |
Additional Considerations to Keep in Mind
- Office Space Requirements Shared desks cost AED 3,000-8,000 annually, while physical offices range from AED 15,000-50,000, depending on size and location.
- Visa Eligibility Zero visa packages start from AED 9,500, while 1-3 visa packages typically cost AED 15,000-25,000 with additional fees per visa.
- Renewal Fees: Expect similar costs during renewal, with potential annual increases of 5-10%, although multi-year contracts often lock in current rates.
Conclusion
Obtaining a general trading license in the UAE doesn’t have to be expensive. With options starting from just AED 9,500 annually in zones like IFZA, you can establish your business legally and affordably.
The key is selecting the correct free zone that aligns with your budget and business needs.
Ready to start your business in the UAE? Contact our licensing experts today for personalized guidance and exclusive deals on the cheapest general trading license options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Freezone Is the Cheapest in the UAE?
IFZA offers the lowest rates starting from AED 9,500 per year.
How Much Does an E-Trader License Cost in the UAE?
AED 1,070 to AED 15,000 annually based on emirate and activities.
How Can I Reduce My Trade License Fee in Dubai?
Choose from free zones, multi-year packages, shared offices, and minimal visa requirements.