How to Get a Gold Silver Jewellery & Accessories Trading License in Dubai
Dubai has long been regarded as one of the world's premier destinations for gold and silver trade, earning its reputation as the "City of Gold" through decades of robust market infrastructure and strategic geographic positioning. For entrepreneurs and established businesses looking to capitalise on this thriving sector, obtaining a Gold Silver Jewellery & Accessories Trading License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is a highly effective route to market entry.
This guide covers everything you need to know about activity code 4773.11, the trading license category, setup costs, compliance requirements, and why Dubai South is an ideal base for this trade.
Dubai's Gold and Jewellery Market: The Opportunity
The UAE is consistently ranked among the top global hubs for gold trading. Dubai alone handles a significant portion of the world's physical gold trade, supported by world-class logistics, a tax-efficient environment, and proximity to key supply and demand markets across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
The retail and wholesale jewellery sector in the UAE generates billions of dirhams in annual revenue, with gold and silver jewellery forming the backbone of consumer and investor demand. The city's free zones amplify this advantage by offering streamlined licensing, full foreign ownership, and access to re-export corridors.
Key Stats at a Glance
Activity Code: 4773.11 - Trading of Gold, Silver Jewellery & Accessories
License Type: Trading License
Category: Trading
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
Foreign Ownership Permitted: 100%
UAE Gold Trade Value: Among the top 3 global gold trading hubs
Typical License Setup Timeline: 3 to 7 working days (free zone)
Re-export Access: Direct connectivity via Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port
What the License Covers
The Gold Silver Jewellery & Accessories Trading License (activity code 4773.11) authorises the holder to engage in the buying, selling, and trading of jewellery and accessories manufactured from gold and silver. This includes finished jewellery items, semi-finished pieces, and related accessories designed for retail or wholesale distribution.
The license falls under the broader retail trade category and is specifically aligned with the trading of precious metal goods in both consumer and business-to-business contexts. Holders may trade within the free zone, export internationally, and re-export goods through Dubai's logistics network.
Who This License Is Suited For
This license is well-suited for a wide range of business profiles, including:
International jewellery brands seeking a UAE distribution base
Wholesale traders importing gold and silver jewellery for regional distribution
Entrepreneurs establishing an e-commerce jewellery business with a UAE presence
Manufacturers looking to trade finished goods from a free zone platform
Investors diversifying into precious metal retail and wholesale trade
Why Choose Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone
Dubai South is strategically located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, one of the world's largest cargo airports, and within close proximity to Jebel Ali Port, the busiest port in the Middle East. This positioning makes it an exceptional choice for businesses involved in high-value goods such as gold and silver jewellery.
The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, full repatriation of profits and capital, and simplified customs procedures. Businesses benefit from a business-friendly regulatory environment designed to reduce administrative burden and accelerate market entry.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
To obtain a Gold Silver Jewellery & Accessories Trading License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, applicants are generally required to provide the following:
Completed license application form
Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
Proposed company name (subject to availability and naming conventions)
Business plan or activity description
Proof of address for shareholders
No objection certificate if the applicant is currently employed in the UAE
Depending on the nature of the business and volume of trade, additional compliance considerations may apply, particularly in relation to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations that govern precious metals trading in the UAE. Businesses trading in gold and silver are subject to the UAE's AML framework, which requires due diligence on suppliers and customers and maintenance of proper transaction records.
Setup Costs and Steps
The cost of setting up a trading license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone varies based on the package selected, office or desk space requirements, and the number of visa allocations needed. Typical costs include the license fee, registration fee, and any applicable facility costs.
The general setup process follows these steps:
Step 1: Select your business activity and confirm the license type (trading, activity code 4773.11)
Step 2: Choose a company name and check availability
Step 3: Submit your application with required documentation
Step 4: Receive initial approval and pay license fees
Step 5: Sign the license agreement and receive your trade license
Step 6: Open a corporate bank account and apply for visas if required
The entire process can typically be completed within 3 to 7 working days for straightforward applications, making Dubai South one of the faster free zones for business setup.
Profit Margins and Re-export Potential
Gold and silver jewellery trading can offer strong margins, particularly for businesses that source directly from manufacturers in key producing countries such as India, Turkey, Italy, and China. The UAE's zero import duty on gold and favourable re-export framework allow traders to move goods efficiently across markets in Africa, South Asia, and Europe.
Dubai's reputation for quality assurance and its established hallmarking standards further enhance the credibility of goods traded through UAE-based entities, supporting premium pricing in export markets.
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