General Trading License
A broad licence for companies that trade many kinds of products.
Typical range
AED 15,000 to 50,000
Typical range
- Typical timeline
- 5-10 working days
- Best for
- Importers, distributors and multi-category traders
- Coverage
- Wide product range
- Typical range
- AED 15,000–50,000
About General Trading License
A general trading licence allows trading across a wide range of goods under one licence, which suits companies with varied products or a changing mix.
Some categories are restricted or need separate approvals, so we check your product list first.
One licence, many products
Fewer separate licences to manage.
Flexibility
Adjust your product mix without restarting.
Checked for restrictions
We flag restricted categories early.
At a glance
The numbers that matter
Coverage
Multiple categories
Designed for businesses trading across multiple approved product categories.
Model
Wholesale & retail
Can suit businesses operating across different trading channels where permitted.
Markets
Flexible
Suitable for businesses with UAE, regional or international trading plans.
Key decision
Activity scope
The proposed product categories should be reviewed before selecting the licence.
Is this right for you?
Who is a general trading licence for?
Importers with multiple product categories
Wholesalers and distributors
Multi-category trading companies
Regional trading groups
Businesses planning to expand their product portfolio
Designed for a wider product portfolio
A general trading structure can be useful when a business expects to trade multiple categories of goods rather than operating around one narrow product line.
The permitted scope should still be confirmed carefully because regulated products may require separate approvals.
- Review the intended product categories
- Confirm permitted activities
- Select the appropriate jurisdiction
- Plan warehouse and logistics needs
- Prepare for banking and trade documentation
Build the structure around future growth
If your business plans to add products or enter new markets, it is useful to consider the expected expansion before finalising the initial licence structure.
Before you start
Requirements & eligibility
Product portfolio
- Main product categories
- Expected suppliers
- Target customers
- Import or export markets
Shareholder documents
- Passport copies
- Proof of address
- Shareholder information
- Proposed company names
Operating plan
Provide information about office, warehouse, logistics and expected staffing requirements.
Regulated products
Products subject to special regulation should be identified before licensing.
What is included
- Product category review
- General trading licence issuance
- Office lease and Ejari
- Customs registration guidance
- Bank introduction
Documents you will need
Tick what you already have and we will help with the rest.
How it works, step by step
4 clear steps, and we handle each one. You always know where your file stands.
- 1
Review your products
We check for restricted categories.
- 2
Apply
Name, approvals and MOA are prepared.
- 3
Premises
Office or warehouse arranged.
- 4
Licence issued
Start trading.
Important to know
Before you proceed
Broad does not mean unlimited
A general trading licence does not automatically authorise every product category.
Special products require review
Food, cosmetics, medical products, chemicals and other regulated goods may need additional approvals.
Warehouse planning matters
Businesses holding significant inventory should plan suitable storage and logistics facilities.
Banking can require trade evidence
Banks may request supplier contracts, invoices, customer information and expected transaction details.
Questions, answered
Can't find what you need? Message us and a consultant will reply.
Ask on WhatsAppYes. Some regulated goods, such as certain food, medical or chemical items, need their own approvals or a specialised licence.
Related services
Ready to start with General Trading License?
Tell us about your situation. A consultant will confirm what you need, the cost and the timeline.
Brightlink is an independent private consultancy and is not a government authority. Prices and rules can change.
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