General Trading in DHCC
Starting From
AED 30,000
Setup Time
10 Business Days
Visa Quota
6 Visas
Location
Dubai
About General Trading
The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Dubai Healthcare City stands out as a premier destination for General Trading businesses.
As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your General Trading business will benefit from dedicated healthcare free zone and regulated clinical environment. The DHCC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 30,000.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your general trading setup in DHCC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why DHCC for General Trading?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Healthcare City continues to attract general trading entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for general trading operations. Additionally, regulated clinical environment ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 35,000 per year for a office, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Medical professionals network further enhances the appeal of DHCC for general trading professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your general trading business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DHCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fee | 30,000 |
| Visa Package (per visa) | 6,000 |
| Clinic Space | 50,000 |
| Office | 35,000 |
| Private Office | 60,000 |
| Estimated Total (Year 1) | From AED 86,000 |
* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.
Setup Timeline
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your general trading business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DHCC as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. DHCC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. As a non-regulated activity, the documentation requirements are straightforward. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your DHCC trade licence is issued within 10 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct general trading activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 30,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DHCC licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 6,000. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your general trading business in Dubai Healthcare City is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
The typical processing time for a general trading licence at DHCC is 10 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.
General Trading in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.dhcc.ae ↗Popular in DHCC
By IBA Business Setup Team
Last updated: 26 February 2026
International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.
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