Dubai handles 70%+ of UAE's imports and is a major re-export hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. A trading license in the right free zone gives you access to world-class logistics infrastructure, favorable customs duties, and strategic geographic positioning.
Best Free Zones for Trading
JAFZA (Jebel Ali): direct port access, 8,700+ companies, ideal for high-volume trade. DMCC: commodities trading hub, 23,000+ companies. Dubai South: near Al Maktoum Airport, logistics focus. DAFZA: near Dubai International Airport for air freight. RAKEZ: lower costs for manufacturing + trading combos.
License Requirements
A 'General Trading' license allows import/export of most goods. Some products need specific approvals: food (Dubai Municipality), electronics (ESMA), pharmaceuticals (MOH), cosmetics (approved labs). You'll need a trade license, customs code, and potentially product registrations.
Customs & Duties
Standard UAE customs duty: 5% CIF value. Free zone to free zone: 0% duty. Re-export from free zone: 0% duty. Certain items are duty-free (IT equipment, some raw materials). Excise tax applies to: tobacco (100%), energy drinks (100%), carbonated drinks (50%), sweetened drinks (50%).
Cost Comparison
JAFZA: from AED 15,000 license + warehouse/office. DMCC: from AED 15,000 license + flexi-desk. DAFZA: from AED 12,000 license. Dubai South: from AED 9,000 license. RAKEZ: from AED 7,500 license. Total first year with visa: AED 20,000-60,000 depending on zone and warehouse needs.
Relevant Free Zones
UAQ FTZ
umm al-quwain
Setup: 2-3 business days
Ajman Media City
ajman
Setup: 2-3 business days
IFZA
dubai
Setup: 1-2 business days
Shams
sharjah
Setup: 1-2 business days
SPC
sharjah
Setup: 3-5 business days
AFZA
ajman
Setup: 2-3 business days
FMFZ
fujairah
Setup: 3-5 business days
AFZ
ajman
Setup: 2-3 business days
Frequently Asked Questions
Which free zone is best for import-export in Dubai?
JAFZA for port-based trading with warehousing. DMCC for commodities and general trading. DAFZA for air freight-focused businesses. Dubai South for logistics near the new airport. RAKEZ for budget-friendly trading with industrial facilities.
How much is a general trading license in Dubai?
From AED 7,500 (RAKEZ) to AED 25,000+ (JAFZA with warehouse). Most popular option: DMCC at ~AED 15,000 for the license plus a flexi-desk. Add AED 5,000-8,000 per visa for residence.
Can I import any product with a trading license?
A general trading license covers most goods, but regulated items need extra approvals: food products (municipality), pharmaceuticals (MOH), electronics (ESMA), alcohol (special permit), and weapons/ammunition (prohibited without government contract).
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