How to Register a General Trading Company in Dubai — A Complete Guide

Introduction

Dubai is among the world’s most advantageous business hubs, especially for trading enterprises. Its strategic location, world‑class infrastructure, business‑friendly laws, and access to regional markets make it ideal for a general trading company. But to turn that potential into reality, entrepreneurs must navigate legal, regulatory, and logistical steps.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

1. What a general trading license is, and why it's popular

2. The steps to register a trading company in Dubai (mainland vs free zone)

3. Common challenges and how to avoid them

4. How a specialist consultancy like Corppluse can support and accelerate the process

What Is a General Trading License & Why Use It?

A general trading license allows a business to import, export, reexport, distribute, and deal with a wide variety of goods (usually non‑restricted goods) under a single license. This avoids having to get separate licenses for many product lines.

Benefits of a general trading license include:

• Flexibility to trade multiple product lines under one license

• Cost efficiency (one license instead of many)

• Easier to expand into new goods

• Suitable for import/export/reexport businesses

Mainland vs Free Zone vs Offshore

Choosing the right jurisdiction is crucial. Each path has pros and cons depending on your trade model.

Detailed Step‑by‑Step Process

1. Define Product Lines & Activities

2. Reserve & Approve Trade Name

3. Apply for Initial Approvals / No Objection Letter

4. Prepare Legal Documents & Incorporate

5. Secure Office or Warehouse Premises

6. Submit Final License Application & Pay Fees

7. Register with Customs & Import / Export Registration

8. Open a Corporate Bank Account

9. Visa, Immigration & Sponsorship

10. Renewals, Compliance & Ongoing Operations

How Corppluse Can Help You — Your Local Business Setup Partner

When you choose Corppluse, you’re gaining a strategic partner who ensures your trading company gets operational faster and remains compliant. The team assists with jurisdiction selection, documentation, government liaison, customs registration, banking support, accounting, and post‑setup growth.

Corppluse offers:

• Strategic business structure advice

• Name & licensing navigation

• Documentation & legal drafting

• Office & lease assistance

• Government liaison & PRO service

• Customs & import/export setup

• Banking & financial setup

• Accounting, VAT & compliance support

• Post‑setup support & growth

Conclusion

Registering a general trading company in Dubai is straightforward when guided properly. With Corppluse, entrepreneurs gain a trusted partner who manages every stage — from planning and licensing to compliance and expansion — ensuring smooth business growth in the UAE.