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:
Submit your application and select your dry fruit trading activity codes
Choose your workspace arrangement and any visa requirements
Receive your cost estimate and confirm payment
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.
