By Lee 
Dubai has earned its name as the “City of Gold” — and for good reason. The emirate is one of the biggest gold trading hubs in the world, connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, jeweler, or wholesaler, getting a gold trading license in the UAE opens the door to a profitable and globally trusted market.
Walk through Dubai’s Gold Souk or DMCC, and you’ll immediately see why the world trusts this market. The UAE offers:
- A stable, investor-friendly economy
- Secure, regulated gold trading
- High-quality infrastructure
- Globally recognized gold standards
A gold trading license allows you to buy, sell, import, export, store, refine, and trade gold or gold-related products—depending on the activity you select. The UAE makes the process smooth, fast, and business-friendly.
In Dubai’s free zones, you enjoy complete ownership of your company. No need for a local sponsor — you run the business, keep full control, and make independent decisions.
One of the strongest benefits is the tax-free structure:
- 0% corporate tax
- 0% personal income tax
All profits can be taken home as capital — meaning more money in your pocket.
Gold traders enjoy an incredibly attractive VAT exchange system:
- Most B2B gold transactions are VAT exempt
- Lower operational costs
- Seamless trade with local and international partners
This is a major reason gold trading thrives in Dubai.
Dubai’s free zones like DMCC and Gold & Diamond Park offer unmatched facilities:
- 24/7 business access
- Secure vaults
- Fully air-conditioned premises
- Fire and safety systems
- Retail/office spaces
- Refining labs and grading facilities
It’s everything a gold business needs — in one place.
Dubai’s government has made hiring expatriates smooth and streamlined:
- Fast visa approvals
- Minimal paperwork
- Business-friendly employment rules
Companies can bring in skilled workers from anywhere in the world.
Smooth operations are a must for gold trading. Dubai offers:
- Secure gold transport
- Logistics support
- Close proximity to airports and seaports
- Dedicated shuttle and storage services
This ensures timely and safe daily operations.
All gold sold in major UAE gold centers is hallmarked — meaning high trust, global acceptance, and transparency. It gives your customers confidence in your products.
Dubai’s gold market is regulated, stable, and fraud-free. Clear rules protect traders and consumers, encouraging safe and fair operations.
Located between three continents, Dubai attracts:
- Tourists
- Global traders
- Investors
- Wholesalers
This geographic advantage offers a massive international audience.
Gold is high-value — and Dubai takes security seriously:
- Advanced surveillance
- Dedicated security staff
- Secure vault facilities
- Emergency systems
Your assets and staff remain protected at all times.
Gold is one of the most liquid assets in the world. Even during global crises, gold demand stays strong. This makes it a safe and profitable industry.
Freedom to repatriate profits and access to international banks lets businesses scale globally without restrictions.
There are no high capital requirements, making it possible for small, medium, and large investors to start easily.
Working with experienced business setup consultants ensures:
- Full compliance
- Faster approval
- Minimal paperwork
- Smooth operations
This helps maximize the benefits UAE offers.
The world’s number one free zone for commodities trading. DMCC offers:
- State-of-the-art vaults
- Refining labs
- Trading platforms
Perfect for wholesalers, importers, exporters, and large investors.
A popular choice for:
- Retail jewelry shops
- Designers
- Gold artisans
- Small traders
It provides flexible retail space with a global customer base.
For those wanting to operate across the UAE without restrictions, the mainland license is ideal.
Free zone or mainland? Retail or wholesale? Decide based on your business goals.
Gold trading, gold import/export, jewelry manufacturing, etc.
Passport, photos, business plan, and other ID proofs.
Authorities review and approve your business concept.
Depending on the jurisdiction, you’ll need:
- Office space
- Shop space
- Warehouse or storage facility
Once everything is approved, you receive your official gold trading license.
Set up your staff and financial operations.
- Passport copy
- Visa/entry permit
- Personal photo
- Application form
- Certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum & Articles
- Board resolution
- Passport copies of shareholders
Generally AED 28,000 – AED 50,000 depending on:
- Free zone
- Office space
- Number of visas
Approximately AED 30,000 – AED 60,000 depending on activity and approvals.
- Visa fees
- Office rent
- Insurance
- Bank account setup
Those looking for a low-tax, high-profit business.
A perfect location for retail outlets and bulk trading.
Those looking for a stable, recession-proof industry.
Online gold trading is growing fast — Dubai is the ideal base.
This avoids mistakes, speeds approvals, and ensures compliance.
Stay aligned with UAE regulations to maintain credibility.
DMCC for large-scale traders, Gold & Diamond Park for retailers.
Hallmarked gold, transparent pricing, and strong branding attract global customers.
Getting a gold trading license in the UAE is one of the smartest investment decisions today. Dubai’s strategic location, tax-free structure, world-class free zones, and secure ecosystem provide everything you need for a successful gold trading business. Whether you want to start small or scale globally, Dubai offers unmatched opportunities for growth, stability, and profitability.
Yes! With high liquidity, strong global demand, and tax benefits, Dubai is one of the most profitable places for gold trading.
Yes. Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required.
Typically 3–10 working days, depending on the jurisdiction and documentation.
Most B2B transactions are VAT exempt, making gold trading highly cost-efficient.
DMCC is considered the best for wholesale trading, while Gold & Diamond Park is ideal for retail jewelers.