Dubai is one of the world's foremost jewellery trading hubs. The emirate's Gold and Diamond Park, its internationally recognised jewellery souk, and its status as a major re-export centre for precious metals and gemstones make it an exceptional base for jewellery wholesale businesses.  

Understanding the cost and structure of a jewellery wholesale business in Dubai is essential for traders entering one of the world’s most competitive precious goods markets. 

This guide explains how to start a jewellery wholesale business in Dubai through Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including activity codes, license costs, and the full setup process. 

What Does a Jewellery Wholesale License Allow? 

A jewellery wholesale license allows your business to import, export, and wholesale jewellery, precious metals, gemstones, and related accessories. This includes gold and silver jewellery, diamonds, coloured gemstones, pearls, imitation jewellery, and jewellery accessories. For related trading context, see the general trading activity hub page. 

Relevant Activity Codes 

The following activity codes are applicable to jewellery wholesale businesses: 

• 4649.15 — Wholesale of Watches, Clocks and Jewellery 

• 4771.91 — Imitation Jewellery Trading 

• 4773.11 — Trading of Jewellery and Accessories Made of Gold and Silver 

• 4774.94 — Used Jewellery Trading 

• 4669.07 — Wholesale of Precious Stones 

• 4773.12 — Pearls and Precious Stones Trading 

• 7410.97 — Jewellery Designing 

• 7490.04 — Appraisal Activities for Antiques, Jewellery Etc. 

To explore all available codes for jewellery and precious goods, browse the business activities page. 

License Cost for a Jewellery Wholesale Business in Dubai 

The license cost at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts from AED 12,500, including up to five activities under one license. Additional activities can be added at AED 2,000 each, allowing you to expand across multiple jewellery categories under a single structure. To understand your full setup cost, use the business setup cost calculator to generate a personalised, itemised estimate. 

Setting Up Your Jewellery Wholesale Business at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone 

The registration process is fully digital. Submit your application and select your jewellery wholesale activity codes, choose your workspace arrangement and visa requirements, receive your cost estimate and confirm payment, then receive your license documentation. Before applying, check your preferred business name using the name check tool. 

Can a Free Zone Jewellery Company Trade with UAE Mainland Retailers? 

Free zone companies can export internationally and trade within the free zone or between free zones. For selling to UAE mainland jewellery retailers and gold souk traders, a local distributor arrangement is typically required. Read our article on free zone trading for details. 

Why Trade Jewellery from Dubai? 

Dubai has one of the world's most transparent and competitive gold and diamond markets. The emirate's VAT-free precious metals zone, strong regulatory framework for precious goods trading, and connectivity to jewellery manufacturing hubs in India, China, and Turkey give Dubai-based jewellery wholesalers a significant competitive advantage. To start your jewellery wholesale business, visit the start your business page. 

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers full foreign ownership, no requirement for a local sponsor, no paid-up capital, and complete profit repatriation within a tax-efficient UAE free zone structure. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What license do I need to start a jewellery wholesale business in Dubai? 

You need a free zone trade license with relevant jewellery and precious goods trading activity codes. This is available from AED 12,500 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. 

Can I combine gold jewellery, diamonds, and imitation jewellery under one license? 

Yes. Multiple jewellery-related activity codes can be combined under one license. The first five activities are included at no additional cost. 

Do jewellery traders in Dubai need any special approvals? 

Jewellery and precious metals traders in the UAE may need to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and UAE Central Bank requirements for dealers in precious metals and stones. Confirm your specific compliance obligations with a qualified UAE adviser. 

What is the minimum cost to start a jewellery wholesale business in Dubai? 

License costs start from AED 12,500 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, with total costs depending on your selected activities, visa requirements, and additional services. 

Can a foreigner own 100% of a jewellery wholesale company in Dubai? 

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

Can I include jewellery design alongside trading under one license? 

Yes. Activity code 7410.97 — Jewellery Designing can be included alongside trading codes under one license. 

Do jewellery wholesale companies need a physical showroom in Dubai? 

A physical showroom is not required for license registration. Wholesale operations can use a flexi-desk setup. Physical display space may be required for trade-facing operations. 

What documents are required to set up a jewellery wholesale company in Dubai? 

Typically, passport copies for all shareholders and directors, proof of address, your selected business activities, and a proposed company name. 

Can I export jewellery from Dubai to other countries? 

Yes. A free zone trade license allows you to export internationally, subject to UAE customs regulations and any hallmarking or import requirements in the destination country. 

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

Licenses are typically issued within one business day once documentation is verified and payment is completed through the fully digital process. For ongoing operational support, you can explore Beyond Hub that handles all post-licensing services such as residency visas, corporate business account introductions and VAT registration.