Dubai Gold Trading Licence 2026: Cost & Setup Guide
A Dubai gold trading licence 2026 costs between AED 15,000–45,000, depending on your business setup location and entity type. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) issues all licences, with processing taking 7–14 business days. Applicants must meet MOHRE employment requirements and comply with FTA gold trading standards.
What Is a Dubai Gold Trading Licence?
A Dubai gold trading licence is a mandatory legal permit issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for any individual or company buying, selling, or importing precious metals in the Emirates. Gold trading in mainland Dubai or free zones (DMCC, JAFZA, RAK FEZ) requires separate licensing and compliance with both the FTA (Federal Tax Authority) guidelines and MOHRE labour regulations if you employ staff.
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2026 Gold Trading Licence Cost Breakdown
Licence costs vary significantly by structure and location:
| Setup Type | Location | Estimated Cost (AED) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietor | Mainland Dubai | 15,000–22,000 | 10–14 days |
| LLC (2 partners) | Mainland Dubai | 22,000–35,000 | 12–16 days |
| Sole Proprietor | DMCC Free Zone | 18,000–28,000 | 7–10 days |
| Limited Company | DMCC Free Zone | 28,000–45,000 | 10–14 days |
Exact fees depend on trade name availability and office location. Email inquiry@dubaibusinessservices.com for a custom quote.
DET Approval & Documentation Requirements
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) conducts a three-stage review: (1) trade name availability check; (2) business plan and shareholder verification; (3) final licence issuance. You must submit a completed application form, passport copies of all owners, proof of office lease or free-zone sponsorship letter, and a financial guarantee ranging from AED 50,000–150,000 depending on your annual turnover projection. DET typically confirms approval within 7–10 business days if all documents meet 2026 standards.
DMCC vs. Mainland Dubai: Licence Comparison
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) free zone is the preferred choice for gold traders due to 100% foreign ownership, zero VAT exemption, and specialised commodities expertise. Mainland Dubai offers lower setup costs but requires a local UAE national sponsor (if you are non-Emirati). JAFZA and RAK FEZ also issue gold trading licences at competitive rates. DBS advises free-zone licencing for serious importers; mainland for local resellers.
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MOHRE Employment & Compliance Rules
If you hire staff, MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) mandates a minimum salary scale and labour contract registration. Gold trading businesses must maintain health insurance for all employees and comply with UAE Labour Law. A single employee licence costs an additional AED 2,000–4,000 annually. Failure to register contracts results in fines up to AED 10,000 and potential business suspension.
VAT Registration & FTA Obligations
Gold trading in the UAE is subject to FTA (Federal Tax Authority) rules. While bullion sales are VAT-exempt, jewellery retail is taxed at 5%. You must register with the FTA if annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000. Unregistered traders face penalties up to AED 20,000. Dubai Business Services ensures full VAT compliance during setup.
How to Apply for Your Gold Trading Licence in 2026
Step 1: Verify business name availability with DET online portal. Step 2: Prepare all documents (passports, lease agreement, financial statements). Step 3: Submit application via DET eServices or DBS on your behalf. Step 4: Await DET approval (7–14 days). Step 5: Collect physical licence and register with FTA/MOHRE if applicable. DBS handles the entire process, reducing your workload and ensuring zero compliance errors.
Ready to start? Email inquiry@dubaibusinessservices.com or call +971 54 332 2846 today.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum cost to get a gold trading licence in Dubai 2026?
The minimum cost is approximately AED 15,000 for a sole proprietor licence issued by DET in mainland Dubai. This includes the trade licence fee, registration, and initial compliance costs. Free-zone licences (DMCC) start at AED 18,000. Additional costs apply if you hire staff or rent a commercial office. Contact DBS for an itemised quote.
How long does it take to obtain a gold trading licence?
DET typically approves gold trading licences within 7–14 business days, provided all documents are complete and verified. DMCC free-zone applications often process faster (7–10 days) due to centralised services. Mainland Dubai licences may take 12–16 days due to sponsor verification. DBS prioritises applications and provides weekly status updates.
Do I need a local UAE sponsor for a gold trading licence?
Yes, if you are a non-Emirati applying for a mainland Dubai licence. You must secure a UAE national sponsor who becomes a 51% shareholder (or less with recent liberalisation). DMCC and other free zones waive this requirement, allowing 100% foreign ownership. This is a key reason many traders prefer free-zone licencing in 2026.
Is a gold trading licence the same as a precious metals licence?
No. A gold trading licence specifically permits buying and selling gold bars, coins, and bullion. A broader precious metals licence includes diamonds, silver, and gemstones, requiring separate FTA registration. Ensure your DET application specifies 'gold trading' to avoid regulatory confusion. DBS clarifies this distinction during the application process.
What are the MOHRE requirements for gold trading staff?
If you employ one or more staff, MOHRE requires a labour contract, health insurance, and a minimum salary (currently AED 3,000+ for low-skilled roles). Each employee licence costs AED 2,000–4,000 annually. Gold trading is classified as a skilled profession, so higher wages may apply. Compliance is mandatory; violations result in fines up to AED 10,000.
Can I operate a gold trading business from home without an office?
No. DET requires a registered business address. In mainland Dubai, you must lease a commercial or co-working space (minimum AED 3,000–6,000 annually). Free-zone licences (DMCC, JAFZA) provide virtual office options at lower cost (AED 2,500–4,000 yearly). DBS assists in securing compliant office space that meets DET standards.
What financial guarantee is required for a gold trading licence?
DET typically mandates a financial guarantee of AED 50,000–150,000, depending on your projected annual turnover. This is held in a blocked bank account and released after three years of compliant trading. Some free zones (DMCC) allow lower guarantees (AED 30,000–80,000). The guarantee protects consumers and ensures regulatory compliance throughout your licence validity.