General Trading Licence

General Trading Licence in Ras Al Khaimah

A general trading licence can provide broad trading scope, but the right structure still depends on the products, markets, import/export model and premises requirements.

On this pageScope Setup route Banking Operations See the full start-to-finish process →

Scope

Define what you will trade and where.

List the intended product groups, source countries, destination markets, expected volumes and whether goods will be imported into the UAE, re-exported or sold through local channels. Certain goods may require additional approvals.

Setup route

Compare mainland and free zone around the physical movement of goods.

Trading businesses should consider customs, warehousing, delivery, customers and whether they need direct mainland commercial activity. The best route can differ from a consulting or digital-services company.

Banking

Trading applications need a clear transaction story.

Banks may want to understand suppliers, buyers, countries, shipping flow, expected invoice values and source of funds. Prepare supporting commercial evidence where available.

Operations

Plan customs, logistics, premises and tax together.

Warehousing, import codes, product approvals, VAT treatment and bookkeeping can become part of the operating setup depending on the business.

Last reviewed: September 2026 • General information only. Requirements, fees, processing routes and eligibility can change; verify the current position with the relevant authority or service provider.

Related guidance

Continue with the next part of the process.

Process

Start-to-Finish Business Setup Process

See how licensing, visas, banking and compliance fit together.

Compare

Mainland vs Free Zone

Compare the two main RAK setup routes around how you will operate.

Costs

Business Setup Costs

Plan the total first-year and renewal cost, not only the licence.

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