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. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

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

You need a free zone trade license with the relevant garments and apparel trading activity codes. This is available from AED 12,500 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. You can also use the business setup cost calculator to get a transparent, itemised estimate with no hidden charges. 

Can I import garments 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 applicable product-specific import approvals. 

Do I need a warehouse to start a garments trading company in Dubai? 

A physical warehouse is not a mandatory requirement for registering your company. However, if your operations involve storage and distribution, appropriate warehousing facilities will be required. 

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

License costs start from AED 12,500, with total costs depending on your selected activities, visa requirements, and additional services. 

Can a free zone garments company sell directly to UAE mainland retailers? 

Free zone companies cannot sell directly to mainland UAE retailers without a local distributor arrangement. You can export internationally and trade within the free zone or with other free zone companies freely. 

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

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

How many business activities can I include under one trading license? 

You can include as many activities as you need. The first five are included at no additional cost, and each additional activity costs AED 2,000. 

What documents are needed to set up a garments trading company in Dubai? 

Typically, passport copies for all shareholders and directors, proof of address, your selected business activities, and a proposed company name. You can check whether your preferred company name is available and meets UAE naming regulations by using our name check tool.  

Can I combine garments trading with other trading activities under one license? 

Yes. You can combine garments trading with other relevant trading categories such as accessories, textiles, and footwear under a single license. 

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

The process is fully digital, and eligible applicants can receive their license in as little as one business day, subject to documentation accuracy and payment confirmation.