The Gateway for Global Traders

Dubai has long stood as one of the world’s most connected trading capitals, bridging markets between East and West. For entrepreneurs engaged in import, export, and distribution, the city’s strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and business-friendly regulations make it a natural hub for international trade.

At the heart of this trading ecosystem lies Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone (DSBH FZ), an integrated business community designed for companies that buy, sell, repack, relabel, and distribute goods across borders. Located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport and close to Jebel Ali Port, DSBH FZ connects air, sea, and land logistics within one unified corridor.

With company formation starting from AED 12,500, same-day licence issuance, and complete support through the Beyond Hub Division, DSBH FZ provides traders with the tools and environment to expand confidently into global markets.

Why Dubai Is the World’s Trading Crossroads

Dubai has built its reputation on trade. Its ports and airports serve as transit points for more than two hundred countries, giving businesses unmatched access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.

The city’s trade infrastructure includes Jebel Ali Port, one of the largest container ports in the world, and Al Maktoum International Airport, a cargo superhub capable of handling millions of tonnes of freight annually. These assets make Dubai an ideal location for traders, importers, and distributors who require efficiency, speed, and connectivity.

Within this ecosystem, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a simplified and cost-effective entry point for entrepreneurs who want to manage buying, selling, warehousing, and re-exporting operations without the complexity of a mainland setup.

The Power of Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

DSBH FZ is strategically positioned within the Dubai South master development, which houses aviation, logistics, and commercial zones under one integrated master plan. Businesses operating here are connected directly to Dubai Customs, DP World Jebel Ali, and the Port Authority systems.

This proximity ensures that goods can be cleared, stored, repackaged, and redistributed faster than in almost any other region. Through Beyond Hub, traders can access import–export codes, customs guidance, freight forwarding partnerships, and bonded warehousing solutions that align with UAE regulations.

Whether an entrepreneur is importing electronics from Asia, exporting food products to Africa, or managing a re-export operation to Europe, DSBH FZ provides the flexibility and speed required for modern global trade.

The General Trading Licence Explained

A General Trading Licence at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone allows entrepreneurs to import, export, distribute, and store multiple categories of goods under one umbrella.

Key Activities Covered

• Import and export of diverse products

• Buying and selling within the UAE and internationally

• Wholesale and retail trading

• Repackaging and relabelling goods

• Light assembly and product bundling

• Transit and re-export of goods

This broad scope enables companies to operate across different industries, including fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, automotive parts, construction materials, textiles, and industrial equipment.

The flexibility of a general trading licence means entrepreneurs can diversify their product range without needing multiple licences, reducing cost and administrative complexity.

Working with the Port and Customs Authorities

One of the greatest advantages of DSBH FZ is its integration with Dubai’s Port and Customs Authorities. Businesses within the Free Zone can process customs documentation electronically, manage inspections, and coordinate clearance through approved brokers.

The process for import and export is straightforward:

1. Submission of shipping documents such as invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.

2. Customs inspection when required, conducted under the supervision of Dubai Customs.

3. Payment of duties or declaration for re-export, depending on the final destination of goods.

4. Release and transfer of goods to warehouses or customers.

Beyond Hub assists businesses in obtaining their Import–Export Code, connecting them with licensed customs agents, and managing coordination with Dubai Customs for smooth operations.

Goods that are imported for re-export or transit can benefit from duty suspension, making DSBH FZ an ideal base for traders who move high-volume shipments through Dubai’s global corridors.

Value-Added Trading: Repackaging, Relabelling, and Re-export

Many trading companies operating from DSBH FZ engage in value-added services that enhance the marketability of their goods.

These activities include:

• Repackaging: Adjusting packaging sizes to meet retail or wholesale demand.

• Relabelling: Adding compliant labelling or language translations for destination markets.

• Product bundling: Combining complementary items into promotional or retail-ready packs.

• Rebranding: Customising labels or packaging for distributors in specific countries.

These processes add value without constituting full-scale manufacturing, allowing traders to increase profit margins while remaining compliant with Free Zone regulations.

Beyond Hub connects businesses with certified packaging and logistics providers within Dubai South, ensuring that every product meets international standards before export.

Warehousing and Storage by Pallet

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers scalable warehousing solutions that cater to both small and large trading enterprises.

Entrepreneurs can choose from:

• Pallet-based storage systems for bulk inventory management.

• Bonded warehouses where goods can be stored without immediate customs clearance.

• Temperature-controlled units for perishable or sensitive products.

• Shared or dedicated warehouses depending on the scale of operations.

Warehouses in DSBH FZ are equipped with 24-hour security, fire safety systems, digital inventory tracking, and convenient road connectivity to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport.

Through Beyond Hub, traders can secure flexible warehouse leases and connect with third-party logistics (3PL) providers who specialise in freight handling, packaging, and fulfilment.

This arrangement enables companies to manage large volumes of goods efficiently without committing to long-term storage costs.

Import and Export Process: One-on-One with Customs

The import–export process within DSBH FZ is streamlined through a one-on-one coordination model with Dubai Customs.

Step-by-step outline:

1. Company formation and licensing within DSBH FZ.

2. Application for Import–Export Code, facilitated by Beyond Hub.

3. Coordination with freight forwarders for shipment arrival.

4. Document submission via the customs e-clearance system.

5. Physical inspection (if required) and clearance approval.

6. Goods transfer to warehouse or delivery network.

7. Export declaration and re-export logistics for outbound shipments.

The process is designed for efficiency, allowing most shipments to be cleared within a few hours once documentation is verified.

Financial and Regulatory Advantages

Operating within Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone gives traders the following financial advantages:

• Zero personal income tax

• Nine percent corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000

• One hundred percent foreign ownership

• Full profit repatriation

• Eligibility for customs exemptions for goods in transit or re-export

Businesses can open both corporate and personal bank accounts through Beyond Hub’s network of banking partners. The concierge team assists with documentation, compliance checks, and introductions to financial institutions familiar with trading operations.

In addition, traders benefit from Dubai’s robust double taxation treaties with more than 130 countries, reducing global tax exposure and enabling cross-border financial planning.

Beyond Hub: Your Partner in Trade Operations

The Beyond Hub Division within DSBH FZ acts as the operational backbone for businesses. It ensures that every entrepreneur has the tools, knowledge, and support required to manage international trade confidently.

Services include:

• Trade licence setup and renewal

• Import–Export Code registration

• Customs and compliance support

• VAT registration and accounting guidance

• Bank account coordination

• Connection with freight, warehouse, and packaging partners

• Assistance with visa processing for employees and dependants

This single-window approach ensures that traders can focus on business growth while Beyond Hub manages administrative and regulatory tasks.

Industries Thriving Under the General Trading Licence

The flexibility of DSBH FZ’s General Trading Licence attracts a wide spectrum of industries, including:

• Food and Beverage Trading: Importing packaged foods, beverages, and raw ingredients for re-export to regional markets.

• Electronics and Appliances: Repackaging and redistributing products from Asia to GCC countries.

• Automotive Parts and Machinery: Warehousing and distribution for global manufacturers.

• Fashion and Textiles: Relabelling and exporting garments and accessories for Middle Eastern retailers.

• Industrial Equipment and Building Materials: Bulk trading through bonded storage for construction and infrastructure projects.

Each of these sectors benefits from Dubai’s logistics efficiency and the tax-friendly environment of the Free Zone.

Why Choose Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone represents a new generation of trade facilitation in Dubai - a modern, accessible, and fully digital platform that allows entrepreneurs to expand internationally without complexity.

Key Highlights:

• AED 12,500 licence packages for trading businesses

• Same-day licence issuance upon approval

• Up to six visas under the flexi-desk model

• Integrated access to port and customs systems

• Pallet-based warehousing and bonded storage options

• Customs exemption for goods in transit or re-export

• Comprehensive support through Beyond Hub

This ecosystem empowers entrepreneurs to manage trading operations, distribution, and re-export from one central hub that is connected to global markets.

For importers, exporters, and distributors seeking a global base, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone provides the most strategic and cost-effective platform in the region.

Establish your general trading company for AED 12,500, obtain your licence on the same day, and gain access to Dubai’s air, sea, and land logistics infrastructure.

Partner with Beyond Hub to handle customs, warehousing, and regulatory coordination — and transform your business into a global trading enterprise built for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a General Trading Licence in Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone cover?

It allows import, export, distribution, repackaging, relabelling, and wholesale or retail trading across multiple product categories.

Can I import and re-export goods under the same licence?

Yes. The General Trading Licence covers import, export, and re-export activities for approved goods.

Do I need to rent a warehouse to begin trading?

No. You can start with a flexi-desk licence and upgrade to pallet-based or shared warehousing as your volume grows.

How does customs clearance work?

Beyond Hub helps you obtain an Import–Export Code, register with Dubai Customs, and coordinate one-on-one clearance through approved brokers.

Can I repackage or relabel products?

Yes. Light assembly, repackaging, and relabelling are permitted under Free Zone regulations.

What are the main taxes applied?

Zero personal income tax, five percent VAT, and nine percent corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000.

How long does company setup take?

Licences are issued on the same day once documentation and payment are approved.