How to Start a Trading Company in Dubai Mainland

Dubai has long been a global hub for trade, strategically connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. A trading company in Dubai mainland allows entrepreneurs to conduct import, export, and distribution activities across the UAE and internationally, offering unmatched business flexibility.

Why Choose Mainland for a Trading Business?

Unlike free zones, a mainland trading license allows you to:

• Trade directly within the UAE local market without restrictions
• Import and export goods worldwide
• Open multiple branches across the UAE
• Bid for government contracts and larger projects

This makes the mainland an attractive option for entrepreneurs aiming for regional and global expansion.

Steps to Start a Trading Company in Dubai Mainland

1. Choose the Trading Activity

• Decide on the specific type of trading (e.g., general trading, food & beverages, electronics, textiles, building materials, etc.).
• A General Trading License allows multiple unrelated items (electronics, clothing, furniture, etc.), while a Specialized Trading License covers a single category.

2. Select the Legal Structure

• Most trading businesses opt for a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
• 100% foreign ownership is permitted for many trading activities under the updated UAE commercial laws, eliminating the need for a local sponsor in most cases.

3. Reserve Trade Name & Apply for Initial Approval

• Submit a trade name reservation to the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET).
• Apply for initial approval to proceed with the company formation process.

4. Office Space & Ejari Registration

• A physical office is mandatory for mainland trading companies.
• Office space must be registered with Ejari (Dubai’s tenancy contract system).

5. Obtain Trade License

• Apply for a commercial trade license from DET.
• Fees typically range from AED 12,000 – AED 15,000, depending on activity type.

6. Additional Approvals (if required)

• For certain categories (e.g., food, medical products, or chemicals), approvals from other authorities such as the Dubai Municipality, Dubai Health Authority, or Ministry of Climate Change & Environment may be necessary.

7. Visa & Bank Account Setup

• Once the trade license is issued, you can apply for residence visas for investors, employees, and dependents.
• Opening a UAE corporate bank account is essential for business operations.

Costs Involved

The total cost of establishing a mainland trading company typically ranges between AED 25,000 – AED 40,000, depending on license type, office space, and government approvals.

Starting a trading company in Dubai mainland is one of the most rewarding business ventures due to the city’s robust logistics infrastructure, world-class ports, and favorable trade policies. With 100% foreign ownership now possible in most trading sectors, entrepreneurs have more freedom and control than ever to expand into the UAE’s vibrant market.

Expert Guidance with Caspian Accounting and Bookkeeping
Determining the right license type, navigating regulatory approvals, and ensuring full compliance can be complex. Caspian Accounting and Bookkeeping helps investors set up their trading businesses seamlessly, from license acquisition and visa processing to bank account opening and ongoing bookkeeping.

Ready to establish your trading business in Dubai mainland? Contact Caspian Accounting and Bookkeeping today for personalized advice and expert setup services.