Dubai is one of the world's most important garments and apparel trading hubs. Its strategic location, world-class port infrastructure, and access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Europe make it an ideal base for textile and clothing businesses.  

Setting up a garments and apparel trading business in Dubai starts with understanding the license cost, activity selection, and how your trading model fits within UAE regulations. 

This guide explains how to start a garments and apparel trading company in Dubai through Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, covering activity codes, license costs, and the full setup process. 

What Does a Garments and Apparel Trading License Allow? 

A garments and apparel trading license allows your business to import, export, buy, and sell clothing and textile products. This includes menswear, womenswear, childrenswear, sportswear, accessories, protective clothing, and ready-made garments.  

At Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, you can combine multiple relevant activities under a single license. For more context on how trading licenses work generally, see our guide on general trading license in Dubai. 

Relevant Activity Codes for a Garments and Apparel Trading License 

The following activity codes apply to garments and apparel trading businesses: 

• 4771.82 — Men's Garment Trading 

• 4771.83 — Ladies Garment Trading 

• 4771.87 — Garments Accessories Trading 

• 4771.89 — Protective Garments and Vests Trading 

• 4771.95 — ReadyMade Garments Trading 

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

You can explore the full list of trading activities available through the business activities directory. For other trading activity examples, visit the general trading business license page. 

License Cost for a Garments and Apparel Trading Business in Dubai 

The license cost at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts at AED 12,500. The first five business activities are included in your license at no additional charge. If you need more than five activities, each additional one costs AED 2,000. Use the business setup cost calculator to get a transparent price breakdown.  

Setting Up Your Garments and Apparel Trading Business at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone 

The registration process is fully digital. Submit your business details through the online application, select your garments and apparel trading activity codes, choose your workspace and visa requirements, receive your cost estimate and confirm payment, then receive your license documentation digitally. For entrepreneurs setting up as a foreigner, read our guide on business setup in the UAE as a foreigner. 

Can a Free Zone Garments Company Trade with Dubai Mainland? 

Free zone companies can export goods internationally and trade with other free zone entities. For trading directly with the UAE mainland, you will typically need a local distributor or a separate mainland distribution arrangement. Read our article on whether a free zone company can do business across the UAE for a full explanation. 

Why Trade Garments and Apparel from Dubai? 

Dubai's Jebel Ali Port is one of the world's largest container ports, offering seamless connectivity for garment and textile traders moving goods between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Combined with zero corporate tax on qualifying income and full foreign ownership, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone provides a compelling base for garments businesses. Read more about global trade opportunities from Dubai South Free Zone.