Goods Wholesalers Trading License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements

Dubai has long been one of the world's most active trade corridors, connecting manufacturers in Asia and Europe with buyers across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. For entrepreneurs and established businesses looking to capitalise on this position, obtaining a Goods Wholesalers Trading License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is one of the most direct routes into large-scale commerce. This guide covers everything you need to know about Activity Code 4690.98, from what the license covers to setup costs, compliance requirements, and who stands to benefit most.

What Is the Goods Wholesalers Trading License?

The Goods Wholesalers Trading License falls under the Trading category and is classified with Activity Code 4690.98. It authorises the holder to wholesale a broad range of goods that are not specialised to a single product category. In practical terms, this means a license holder can buy and sell general merchandise in bulk, acting as an intermediary between producers or importers and retailers, industrial buyers, or other wholesalers.

The license is issued through Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, a purpose-built commercial ecosystem situated adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, one of the largest cargo airports in the world. This location gives license holders immediate proximity to air freight infrastructure, making it highly suited to time-sensitive or high-volume trade flows.

Who Is This License Best Suited For?

This license is particularly well matched to the following business profiles:

• International trading companies seeking a UAE base for regional distribution

• Importers and exporters handling mixed or general merchandise categories

• Entrepreneurs building a re-export business targeting African, South Asian, or GCC markets

• Established wholesalers expanding their footprint into the Middle East

• Investors looking for a flexible, scalable trading structure with full foreign ownership

Dubai South Free Zone: Why Location Matters

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is strategically positioned within the Dubai South district, a 145-square-kilometre urban development designed around logistics, aviation, and commerce. Al Maktoum International Airport, located within the same zone, handled over 800,000 tonnes of cargo annually in recent years and is projected to become the world's largest airport upon full completion.

The free zone itself offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, zero corporate tax on qualifying income, and full repatriation of profits. These factors, combined with access to world-class logistics infrastructure, make it one of the most competitive wholesale trading environments in the region.

Key Stats at a Glance

• Activity Code: 4690.98

• License Type: Trading License

• Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub

• Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted

• Corporate Tax: 0% on qualifying income

• Cargo Airport: Al Maktoum International, on-site

• Typical License Cost: From approximately AED 12,500 per year (subject to package and approvals)

• Setup Timeline: As little as 3 to 5 working days for standard applications

Setup Costs and What to Expect

The cost of establishing a Goods Wholesalers Trading License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone varies depending on the package selected, the type of office or facility required, and any additional regulatory approvals. Entry-level packages typically begin from around AED 12,500 annually and can increase based on visa allocations, flexi-desk or warehouse requirements, and the number of activities listed on the license.

Costs to factor into your budget include the license registration fee, establishment card fees, visa fees per employee or shareholder, and any facility rental costs. Many free zone packages bundle these elements together, making it easier to forecast total first-year expenditure.

Licensing and Compliance Requirements

To obtain the license, applicants are generally required to submit the following:

• Completed application form from Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

• Passport copies of all shareholders and directors

• Proposed company name (subject to availability and naming guidelines)

• Business plan or activity description in some cases

• Proof of address for shareholders

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the applicant is currently employed in the UAE

Depending on the goods being traded, certain categories may require additional approvals from relevant UAE authorities. Wholesale traders dealing in food products, chemicals, or regulated materials should verify sector-specific requirements before submitting their application.

Steps to Set Up Your Goods Wholesalers Trading License

1. Select your business activity and confirm Activity Code 4690.98 is appropriate

2. Choose a company name and check availability with the free zone authority

3. Select a license package that fits your operational needs

4. Submit your documentation to Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

5. Receive initial approval and pay the applicable fees

6. Collect your trade license and establishment card

7. Apply for residence visas and open a corporate bank account

Related Activities

• General Trading Wholesalers Trading License

• General Non-Specialised Wholesale Trade Trading License

• Caps & Lids Trading Trading License