How to Get a General Trading Wholesalers Trading License in Dubai
Dubai's position as a global trade corridor, handling over AED 2 trillion in non-oil foreign trade annually, makes it one of the most commercially strategic locations in the world to establish a wholesale trading operation. This guide explains exactly how to obtain a General Trading Wholesalers license (Activity Code 4690.87) at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, covering what the license permits, who it suits, setup costs, and the step-by-step process to get trading.
Key Stats at a Glance
Activity Code: 4690.87 - General Trading Wholesalers
License Type: Trading (Free Zone)
UAE non-oil foreign trade: over AED 2.2 trillion annually
Foreign ownership: 100% permitted
Corporate and personal income tax: 0% within free zone framework
Indicative license cost: from AED 12,000 to AED 20,000
Typical processing time: 3 to 7 working days
Minimum share capital: none required for most free zone trading licenses
What Is a General Trading Wholesalers License and What Does It Cover?
Activity Code 4690.87 falls under ISIC Category 4690, which covers the wholesale of a variety of goods without specialisation. This classification recognises businesses that trade across a broad range of product categories rather than concentrating on a single sector. The license type is Trading, and it is issued under the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone framework, granting holders access to the full suite of free zone benefits available within that jurisdiction.
The license permits buying and selling of goods in bulk to retailers, industrial clients, commercial enterprises, and institutional buyers. It does not authorise retail sales directly to end consumers, nor does it permit the manufacture of goods. Businesses requiring specialised wholesale categories, such as food products or pharmaceuticals, must apply under separate activity codes specific to those sectors.
Scope of Permitted Trading Activities
Under this license, holders may trade in mixed goods including consumer products, industrial supplies, and general merchandise across multiple categories simultaneously. This breadth makes it particularly versatile for traders who source from diverse suppliers or serve clients across different industries.
Wholesale of mixed goods including consumer products, industrial supplies, and general merchandise
Re-export of goods to GCC and international markets, permitted under free zone rules
Consolidation of multiple product lines under a single license
Exclusion of specialised wholesale categories that require separate activity codes
Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone Is Ideal for Wholesale Traders
Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone occupies one of the most strategically valuable locations in global trade. Situated adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, the world's largest planned airport, and in close proximity to Jebel Ali Port, the zone sits at the intersection of air and sea freight corridors that connect Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. This infrastructure gives wholesale traders unparalleled access to import, store, and re-export goods efficiently.
License holders benefit from 100% foreign ownership, meaning no local UAE sponsor or partner is required. Combined with a 0% corporate and personal income tax environment and full profit repatriation, the free zone structure delivers a highly competitive cost base for wholesale operations. Dubai has consistently ranked among the top global logistics and trade hubs according to the World Bank Logistics Performance Index, reflecting the reliability and depth of its trade ecosystem.
UAE Market Context for Wholesale Trade
UAE non-oil foreign trade exceeded AED 2.2 trillion in recent years, reflecting sustained and growing demand for wholesale goods across the region. Dubai South free zone was designed specifically to support trade, logistics, and commerce businesses, making it a natural home for wholesale operators seeking regional reach.
Strategic gateway to GCC, Africa, South Asia, and European markets
Growing e-commerce and retail sectors in the GCC drive consistent wholesale demand
Proximity to Jebel Ali Port, the largest port in the Middle East, facilitates high-volume cargo movement
Who Should Apply for This License?
The General Trading Wholesalers license under Activity Code 4690.87 is well suited to a wide range of business profiles. Its flexibility and broad permitted scope make it one of the most practical choices for traders entering the UAE market for the first time or expanding an existing wholesale operation.
Entrepreneurs and SMEs seeking a flexible, multi-category wholesale operation without the complexity of multiple licenses
International traders looking to use Dubai as a re-export hub for GCC and global markets
Businesses wanting to consolidate multiple product lines under a single trading license
Investors seeking 100% ownership without the need for a local UAE sponsor
Companies aiming to benefit from Dubai's logistics infrastructure and free trade agreements
Setup Costs, Steps, and Licensing Requirements
License fees at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone vary based on the chosen package, office or flexi-desk arrangement, and the number of visas required. Indicative costs for a basic free zone trading license start from approximately AED 12,000 to AED 20,000. There is no minimum share capital requirement for most free zone trading licenses at Dubai South, making entry accessible for smaller operators and first-time business owners. Standard applications are typically processed within 3 to 7 working days.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Select business activity code 4690.87 and confirm the license type as Trading under the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone framework.
Step 2: Choose your company structure. A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is appropriate for a sole shareholder, while a Free Zone Company (FZC) accommodates multiple shareholders.
Step 3: Submit your application with the required documentation, including passport copies, visa page, a business plan summary, and proof of address.
Step 4: Pay the license and registration fees upon approval of the initial application.
Step 5: Receive your trade license, proceed to open a UAE corporate bank account, and apply for residence visas if required for yourself or employees.
Compliance and Ongoing Requirements
Once your license is active, there are several ongoing obligations to maintain good standing within the free zone and comply with UAE regulations.
Annual license renewal is required, with fees payable each year to keep the license active
Businesses must maintain a registered address within the free zone at all times
UAE Corporate Tax registration is required for entities meeting the AED 375,000 taxable income threshold under the federal corporate tax framework
Customs registration is needed for import and re-export activities conducted through Dubai South
Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
License Type | Trading |
Activity Code | 4690.87 |
Minimum Share Capital | None required (standard free zone) |
Indicative License Cost | AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 |
Processing Time | 3 to 7 working days |
Foreign Ownership | 100% permitted |
Related Activities
General Non-Specialised Wholesale Trade Trading License
General Trading Business
Goods Wholesalers Trading License
