Why General Trading?
General Trading is the UAE's most flexible license — allowing import, export, wholesale, and multi-product trading without category restrictions.
Top 7 Free Zones for General Trading
1. DMCC — Best for Commodities & Prestige
22,000+ companies. From AED 15,000/year. Up to 100+ visas. Gold standard for trading.2. JAFZA — Best for Volume Trading
UAE's largest free zone, direct Jebel Ali Port access. From AED 15,000/year. Ideal for large-scale logistics.3. IFZA — Best Budget Option in Dubai
From AED 11,500/year, up to 6 visas. Best for small trading businesses wanting a Dubai address.4. Ajman Free Zone — Cheapest
From AED 7,500/year with affordable warehousing. Best if budget is the priority.5. RAK Free Trade Zone — Manufacturing + Trading
From AED 9,500/year. Combines trading with manufacturing capabilities.6. Hamriyah Free Zone — Port Access
From AED 9,000/year. Direct Hamriyah Port access for heavy goods.7. Dubai South — Airport-Connected
From AED 11,000/year. Near Al Maktoum Airport for air freight.Key Factors for General Traders
- 1.Warehouse availability
- 2.Port/airport proximity
- 3.Visa quota
- 4.Cost
- 5.Banking (trade finance needs)
Cost Summary
| Zone | License | Visa (1) | Total Year 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajman FZ | AED 7,500 | AED 3,500 | AED 11,000 |
| IFZA | AED 11,500 | AED 4,500 | AED 16,000 |
| DMCC | AED 15,000 | AED 5,000 | AED 20,000 |
| JAFZA | AED 15,000 | AED 5,000 | AED 20,000 |
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