UAE Commercial Trade License For Trading Businesses
A commercial trade license is the foundational UAE license for buying, selling, importing, and distributing goods — the most common license type for trading businesses.
Commercial License Activities Covered
A commercial license authorizes all trading activities — from importing single products to running a multi-category general trading operation.
General Trading
Buy and sell a wide range of goods under a single general trading license — the most flexible commercial license option
Import & Export
Import goods into the UAE and export to international markets — essential for any international trading business
Wholesale Distribution
Distribute goods in bulk to retailers and resellers across the UAE and GCC from your UAE trading base
Retail Sales
Sell directly to end consumers from a physical retail outlet — requires a commercial license plus municipality approvals
Online Trading
E-commerce and online trading businesses require a commercial license to legally sell products through digital channels
Multi-Product Trading
Trade across multiple product categories under one license — reduces cost and complexity for diversified trading companies
Commercial License in 5 Steps
Activity Classification
Identify the specific trading activities you plan to conduct — this determines whether a general trading or specific commercial license best suits your business.
Jurisdiction Selection
Choose between mainland (DED) and freezone options based on your target market, office requirements, and ownership preferences.
License Application
Submit the license application to DED or the relevant freezone authority with all required company formation documents.
Company Registration
Memorandum of Association drafted and notarized, company registered with UAE authorities, and trade name officially reserved.
Banking & Trading
Corporate bank account opened and your commercial license issued — ready to begin trading operations immediately.
Commercial License vs Other License Types
| Feature | Commercial License | Professional License | Industrial License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Activity | Buying and selling goods | Skill-based services | Manufacturing and production |
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership available | 100% foreign ownership available | 100% foreign ownership available |
| Office Requirement | Physical or flexi-desk | Physical or virtual | Industrial unit required |
| Starting Cost | From AED 7,500 | From AED 7,500 | From AED 15,000 |
| Best For | Traders, importers, retailers | Consultants, professionals | Manufacturers, producers |
Commercial License FAQs
What activities are covered under a UAE commercial license?
A commercial license covers the buying, selling, importing, exporting, and distributing of physical goods. Activities include general trading, wholesale, retail, e-commerce, foodstuff trading, electronics trading, and hundreds of specific product categories registered with the UAE licensing authorities.
Can a commercial license cover multiple trading activities?
Yes. A general trading license is the most flexible option — it allows you to trade in a broad range of goods under a single license. Specific commercial licenses are limited to defined product categories but may cost slightly less. Arab First advises on the most cost-effective approach for your business.
Do I need a physical office for a commercial license?
For mainland commercial licenses, a physical office address is required. For freezone commercial licenses, flexi-desk or virtual office options are available at significantly lower cost. Arab First includes workspace solutions in all commercial license packages.
What is the difference between mainland and freezone commercial licenses?
A mainland commercial license allows you to trade directly with UAE customers and participate in government tenders. A freezone commercial license offers lower costs and full foreign ownership but restricts direct mainland trading without a local distributor. Most trading businesses benefit from a mainland license.
Can I add import/export to my commercial license?
Yes. Import and export activities are standard additions to commercial licenses. Arab First also handles customs authority registration (FCA customs code) required for importing and exporting goods through UAE ports and customs facilities.
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