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How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai, UAE in 2025

How to Get a General Trading License in Dubai, UAE in 2025

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Starting a trading company in Dubai is the best way to enter the UAE market. Many people from all over the world come here because of Dubai’s location, regulations, and easy access to other markets. If you are planning to start a trading business, you will first need to understand its steps, costs, and benefits.

Dubai is known as a global hub for trade. From electrical appliances to clothing, food, machinery, and many other items, Dubai companies trade household products from all over the world. Therefore, trade plays a vital role in the city’s economy. If you want to advance in this market, you need to organize your company properly so that you can operate easily and reach more customers.

If you are ready to grow, now is the right time to start a business in Dubai and reach new markets.

Choose your business activity

What types of products do you want to trade? Some companies produce a single type of product, such as clothing, electronics, or food. Some companies choose a mix of different products. Before choosing your activity, help you plan your licenses, costs, and how to run your business.

In Dubai, you cannot trade all products under a single license, unless you apply for general trading options. For example, if you only want to trade furniture, you can apply for a specific license. But if you want to trade many types of products, you can set up a general trading company. You can do your job easily.

Choose the right business structure

After choosing your products, the next step is to choose the right business structure. In Dubai, you can set up a company on the mainland or in any of the free zones. Each option has its advantages.

  • Mainland companies allow you to work with businesses and government companies in the UAE market.
  • Free zone companies offer you 100% foreign ownership, benefits, and easy setup. These companies are best for focusing on import, export, and report activities.

Your choice will depend on your target customers, business size, and budget. Both structures are reviewed, and many investors use free zones as their starting point.

Apply for a Trading License

Once you have chosen your structure, you will need to apply for a Trading License. This license is your legal document that allows you to operate your trading company. For businesses that sell goods in different ways, it is best to upline them for a General Trading License in Dubai.

This license allows you to import, export, and sell products in multiple ways under one company. You save time and you can focus on growing your business instead of applying for many different permits. This license also makes it easier to store goods in a warehouse, ship them to other countries, or sell them in the local market.

Register your company name

Every business in Dubai needs a trading name. The name should be unique, common, and comply with the regulations of the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or Free Zone Authority. You should avoid names that mimic other companies or go against cultural values. Once your name is approved, you can use it on all your business documents and marketing.

Find an office or warehouse

To run your business, you need physical space. Depending on your activity, this could be a small office, a shop or a large warehouse. Free zones often offer flexi-desk options that are less expensive, while mainland companies may require a proper office setup. If you plan to store bulk products, a warehouse is the right choice.

The good thing is that Dubai offers plenty of modern spaces with good facilities, which makes operations easier for traders.

Open a bank account

After completing your registration and licensing, you must open a corporate bank account in Dubai. This account will help you manage payments from suppliers and customers. Most local and international banks in the UAE allow businesses to open accounts, but each bank may have its own requirements. Keeping proper financial records will also make it easier to renew your license each year.

Business Opportunities in Dubai

Dubai is not only famous for tourism, but is also a thriving hub for trade and business. The city connects Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, making it easy for traders to buy and sell goods in different markets. With world-class ports, airports and a smooth road network, moving goods in Dubai is fast and hassle-free.

At the same time, government regulations make life easier for business owners by providing tax benefits, advanced services and a secure system to work in. This is why many investors see great business opportunities in Dubai, as the city offers them the right mix of global access and local support. All these factors make Dubai one of the top choices for those who want to start or expand their business.

Costs involved in setup

The cost of starting a trading company in Dubai can vary. It depends on the type of license, office space, visa requirements and other approvals. A basic setup can start from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000 or more. Free zones usually offer packages that include office space, license and visa in one deal. Mainland companies may require a larger budget but give you broader market access.

Renewal and Compliance

Your license is usually valid for one year. You need to renew it before it expires to keep your company active. Renewal costs are the same as the initial setup costs. In addition to renewal, you must comply with UAE laws for business activities, employee visas, and financial records.

Final Thoughts

Dubai is one of the best places in the world to set up a trading company. The city offers a strong infrastructure, supportive laws, and direct access to global markets. If you follow the right steps and choose the right license, you can build a successful company here. Many business owners around the world are already enjoying the benefits of doing business in Dubai, and you can do the same.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to get a General Trading License in Dubai in 2025?

Costs can start at around AED 10,000 and increase depending on office space, visa requirements and approvals. Free zones often offer package deals that include a license, workspace and visa. Mainland companies may cost more but allow you to trade directly in the UAE market.

2. Can foreigners start a trading company in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can start trading companies in Dubai. Free zones allow 100% ownership, while mainland companies allow you to sell directly to the local market. Many investors from Asia, Europe and Africa choose Dubai due to its tax benefits, easy setup and global access.

3. Why is Dubai popular for business setup in 2025?

Dubai is trending as a top business hub due to its strong economy, world-class ports, airports, and tax-friendly regulations. The city connects Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it a perfect destination for imports and exports. In 2025, many businessmen will also prefer Dubai because it supports e-commerce and digital trade along with traditional business.

How to Get a Real Estate License in Dubai, UAE

How to Get a Real Estate License in Dubai, UAE

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Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the world. The real estate market here is growing very fast where many people buy, sell or rent properties every day. If you want to work as a real estate agent in Dubai, you will first have to get a real estate license. In this blog, we will explain the entire process in simple terms so that you can understand everything clearly.

Why do you need a real estate license

In Dubai, the government ensures that only qualified people work in the property business. This helps keep the industry clean, safe and professional. A real estate license in UAE proves that you understand the rules, know how the market works and can help clients properly.

Without this license, you cannot legally work as a property broker or agent. So, if you want to become a real estate agent, this is the first step.

Who can apply?

Anyone can apply for a real estate license in Dubai, but you must meet some basic requirements:

  • You must be at least 21 years old.
  • You must have a valid UAE residency visa.
  • You must have at least a high school education.
  • You must not have a criminal record.

Also, if you are not from the UAE, you need to register a business or work under a licensed real estate company. You cannot just start selling or renting properties on your own without legal approval.

Step-by-step process for obtaining a real estate license

Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Choose the right business structure

If you want to work as a freelance real estate agent or open your own real estate firm, you need to choose a business structure. You can either open a:

  • Mainland Real Estate Company
  • Free Zone Real Estate Company (with limited activities)

Setting up a business in Dubai can be difficult. You need the help of experts who understand the legal process. This is where DBS Business Setup Group can help. They make the setup process quick, easy and hassle-free.

2. Apply for a Residency Visa and Emirates ID

Before you start your course or apply for a license, you must have a valid UAE Residency Visa and Emirates ID. This is required for anyone who wants to register with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).

If you are a foreigner or a new investor, you can obtain a visa through your own business or by working under a recognized company.

3. Take a RERA training course

Once you have your visa and ID, the next step is to take a training course approved by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency), which is part of the Dubai Land Department (DLD). This course is commonly called the Certified Training for Real Estate Brokers.

This is a 4-day course that covers the following topics:

  • Real Estate Laws in Dubai
  • Dealing with Clients
  • Property Management
  • Ethics and Code of Conduct
  • Real Estate Marketing

You can take this course online or in person. It is easy to understand and designed for beginners.

4. Pass the RERA exam

After completing the course, you need to take an exam. This exam is based on what you have learned in the course.

You will need to score at least 85 out of 100 to pass. If you fail, don’t worry. You can retake the exam, but you may need to pay an additional fee.

5. Get a real estate license from DLD

Once you have passed the exam, you can apply for your real estate license from the Dubai Land Department. You need to submit:

RERA exam certificate

  • Copy of passport and visa
  • Emirates ID
  • Education certificate
  • Certificate of good conduct

If all your documents are in order, you will receive your real estate license within a few days. This license is valid for one year. You need to renew it every year and depending on the regulations, you may need to take refresher training or exams at that time.

How much does it cost?

Depending on whether you are opening your own company or working under another company, the entire process will cost between AED 5,000 and AED 15,000. Here are some approximate details:

  • RERA training course: Approximately AED 2,500
  • RERA exam: AED 500
  • Trade license (if you are opening your own company): AED 8,000 to AED 12,000
  • Emirates ID and visa costs: Varies
  • It is a good idea to speak to a business setup expert before starting so that you can plan your budget and avoid mistakes.

Tips for Succeeding as a Real Estate Agent

Getting your license is just the beginning. To be successful, you need to:

  • Learn about the Dubai property market regularly
  • Build trust with your clients
  • Always follow the rules
  • Use online platforms to reach more people
  • Work with a good real estate firm if you are new
  • Dubai has a lot of competition, but it also has a lot of earning opportunities. Honest work, good service, and updated knowledge will help you grow.

Final Thoughts

Getting a real estate license in Dubai is not too difficult if you follow the steps and are prepared. It gives you a legal way to work in a growing industry where you can earn good money and meet a lot of people. Always follow the laws and keep learning to become better in this field.

If you feel confused or want to save time, you can take help from experts like DBS Business Setup Group, who can guide you through every step.

Now you know how the whole process works. If you are serious about starting a real estate career, just take the first step. And yes, for anyone looking for how to get a real estate license in Dubai, this guide gives you the answer in the simplest way.