Dubai is one of the world's most strategically positioned trading hubs for dry fruits and nuts. Sitting between the major production regions of Iran, Afghanistan, India, and Central Asia and the consumption markets of the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, the Emirate has become a natural re-export and distribution centre for the global dry fruit trade.  

Starting a dry fruit trading business in Dubai begins with understanding the right license structure, activity codes, food safety requirements, and setup costs. This guide covers all of it through Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. 

What Does a Dry Fruit Trading License Actually Cover? 

A dry fruit trading license allows your business to import, export, store, and wholesale or retail dry fruits and nuts. This includes almonds, cashews, raisins, pistachios, walnuts, dried figs, dates, and other processed or dried food products.  

For related food trading examples, see the food trading and import export business guide and the foodstuff import and export business page. 

Key Dry Fruit Trading Activity Codes 

The following activity codes are applicable to dry fruit trading businesses at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone: 

• 4620.01 — Wholesale of Grains and Seeds 

• 4620.02 — Wholesale of Oleaginous Fruits 

• 4610.00 — Wholesale on a Fee or Contract Basis 

Third-Party Approval: None. | AML / DNFBP: Exempt. 

For additional food trading activity codes, visit the business activities directory. 

License Cost for a Dry Fruit Trading Business in Dubai 

The license cost for a dry fruit trading company at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts from AED 12,500. The first five activities are included at no additional charge. Additional activities cost AED 2,000 each.  

While you are getting your numbers together, it is also worth checking your company name early. Use the company name check tool to confirm availability and UAE compliance before you proceed. 

• Business license start at AED 12,500 

• Additional business activities cost AED 2,000 per activity beyond the first five 

• Investor visa is charged separately based on your selection 

• Emirates ID and medical: charged separately 

• Bank account assistance: available as an add-on service 

For a clear and transparent estimate of the cost use the business setup cost calculator.

Setting Up Your Dry Fruit Trading Business at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone 

The registration process is fully digital. You do not need to visit Dubai at any stage to complete your company registration: 

1. Submit your application and select your dry fruit trading activity codes 

2. Choose your workspace arrangement and any visa requirements

3. Receive your cost estimate and confirm payment 

4. Receive your license documentation digitally 

   
   

Food Safety Approvals Beyond Your Trade License 

Yes. Trading in food products, including dry fruits, typically requires registration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and Dubai Municipality. These approvals are separate from your free zone trade license and must be in place before you begin importing or distributing products commercially in the UAE. Ensure your products comply with UAE food labelling and import regulations, and confirm your specific requirements with the relevant authorities before operations begin. 

Why Dry Fruits Traders Choose Dubai as Their Base? 

Dubai's infrastructure gives dry fruit traders a genuine operational edge. Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport provide exceptional logistics connectivity for moving goods between Asia, Central Asia, and global retail markets and Dubai South sits directly adjacent to Al Maktoum, putting your business at the centre of that supply chain.  

Combined with zero corporate tax on qualifying income and full foreign ownership, Dubai is one of the most attractive locations globally for food trading businesses. Read more about global trade opportunities from Dubai South Free Zone. For a broader view of how general trading works, see our guide on general trading license in Dubai, and explore the general trading business license page on the activity hub. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What license do I need to start a dry fruit trading business in Dubai? 

You need a free zone trade license with relevant food and agricultural trading activity codes. Activity codes 4620.01 and 4620.02 are directly applicable at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. 

Do dry fruit traders need food safety approval in the UAE? 

Yes. You will need to register with MOCCAE and comply with Dubai Municipality food safety regulations, in addition to your free zone trade license. These approvals are separate and must be confirmed before you begin operations. 

Can I import dry fruits from multiple countries under one Dubai license? 

Yes. Your trading license allows you to import from multiple countries, subject to UAE customs regulations and any product-specific import approvals. 

What is the minimum cost to start a dry fruit trading business in Dubai? 

License costs start from AED 12,500 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. Your total will vary based on visa requirements, workspace selection, and additional activities. 

Do I need a warehouse to trade dry fruits from Dubai? 

You can register your company without owning a warehouse. However, if you are physically storing and handling goods, appropriate storage facilities will be required. 

Can a free zone dry fruit trading company sell to UAE mainland retailers? 

Free zone companies cannot sell directly to mainland UAE retailers without a local distributor arrangement. However, you can export internationally and trade within the free zone freely. 

What are the food labelling requirements for dry fruits sold in the UAE? 

Food products imported or sold in the UAE must comply with UAE.S GSO 9 labelling standards, which require Arabic and English labelling, ingredient lists, country of origin, expiry dates, and nutritional information. Confirm your specific requirements with Dubai Municipality before importing. 

Can I combine dry fruit trading with other food trading activities under one license? 

Yes. You can combine multiple food trading activity codes under one license. The first five are included at no additional cost. 

Can a foreigner own 100% of a dry fruit trading company in Dubai? 

Yes. Dubai free zones allow full foreign ownership with no requirement for a UAE national sponsor. 

How long does it take to get a food trading license in Dubai? 

The process is fully digital and eligible applicants can typically receive their license in as little as one business day by submitting a passport copy. Processing may take longer if documentation is incomplete or payment has been delayed. Once your license is issued, Beyond Hub can support you with the next steps, from visa processing to getting your business fully operational.