Dubai’s glittering reputation as a global hub for gold and precious metals is no accident. With its world-class infrastructure, tax advantages, and strategic location between East and West, the city has become a magnet for investors and traders seeking to deal in gold, silver, platinum, and other high-value commodities—without the need for manufacturing.
A non-manufactured precious metal trading business focuses on the buying, selling, and distributing of raw or refined precious metals in their unaltered state. This includes bullion, coins, bars, and scrap metal, and excludes any industrial processing or jewellery production. In other words: trade, not transformation.
The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX), and supportive regulations make starting and scaling such a venture easier than ever. Whether you’re targeting institutional buyers, private collectors, or international suppliers, this business model opens the door to significant profit potential—if you do it right.
In this blog, we’ll unpack everything you need to know to get started. From a step-by-step setup guide and associated costs to marketing tips and the top reasons to partner with Trade License Zone for your business setup in Dubai, this guide is your launchpad into one of the region’s most lucrative sectors.
How to start a non-manufactured precious metal trading business in Dubai: Step-by-step
Step 1: Partner with Trade License Zone
The smartest way to get started? Partner with the experts. At Trade License Zone, we take the guesswork out of your business setup in Dubai. From paperwork and approvals to navigating free zone or mainland options, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your trading strategy. Our consultants will tailor a business setup plan to suit your budget, goals, and operational needs.
Step 2: Choose your business jurisdiction
You’ll need to decide between a mainland or free zone setup. Each has its pros:
- Mainland setup gives you direct access to the UAE market and broader business flexibility.
- Free zones like the DMCC offer tax perks, streamlined setup, and proximity to key industry infrastructure.
If you’re trading internationally or sourcing from global suppliers, a free zone is often the best bet. Let Trade License Zone help you with this critical step.
Step 3: Select your business activity
Your trade license application must specify business activities, such as “Trading in Non-Manufactured Precious Metals” (or its closest equivalent). This ensures compliance with UAE commercial law and allows access to relevant trading platforms, customs services, and banking partners.
Step 4: Reserve your business name
The next step is reserving your business name with the relevant authorities. It must comply with the UAE naming regulations. Once the authority approves, you will be granted a trade name reservation certificate.
Step 5: Apply for initial approval
Next, it’s time to get initial approval from the relevant licensing authority—either the Department of Economic Development (DED) or your chosen free zone. This approval confirms that there are no objections to your business setup. You’ll need to submit key documents like your business plan and passport copies—but don’t stress. Trade License Zone will manage the entire process and deal directly with the authorities for you.
At the same time, depending on your trading scale, you may also need additional approvals from the Dubai Police, Customs, or the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA). Of course, our experienced team of specialists will help you with all the necessary approval processes.
Step 6: Apply for your trade license
Now, the crucial step is to apply for your precious metals trading business license. This includes submitting documents such as passport copies, proof of address, and a No Objection Certificate (if applicable). Trade License Zone will fast-track this process for you, ensuring everything’s in order.
Step 7: Secure your offices
Depending on how you plan to operate, you’ll need either a flexi-desk, private office, or warehouse facility. Many free zones offer cost-effective packages with shared workspaces that provide a legal business address. Trade License Zone will guide you in choosing the option that best suits your needs and budget.
Step 8: Register for VAT and open a corporate bank account
As you’ll be trading high-value items, VAT registration is essential. You’ll also need a corporate bank account that supports precious metal transactions and international trade. Trade License Zone can connect you with banking partners who understand your business.
Step 9: Start trading
Once your trade license is issued and your infrastructure is in place, you’re ready to trade. Whether you’re importing gold bars from Switzerland or selling silver bullion to regional investors, Dubai offers a vibrant marketplace with global reach.
Benefits of starting a non-manufactured precious metal trading business in Dubai
1. World-renowned trading hub
Dubai is one of the world’s leading centres for gold and precious metal trading. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, global logistics access, and a reputation for quality and transparency, the emirate attracts traders, refiners, and investors from around the globe. Setting up here instantly connects you to an international marketplace.
2. Low tax on precious metal trading
In some cases, non-manufactured precious metals—like investment-grade gold and silver—are exempt from VAT in the UAE. Couple that with low corporate tax and no personal, dividends, or capital appreciation tax, your profit margins stay healthier.
3. Access to secure storage and logistics
Many free zones and specialised facilities offer high-security vaults, customs-bonded warehouses, and temperature-controlled storage. These are purpose-built for handling high-value commodities like bullion, ensuring your assets are protected and compliant.
4. Transparent and business-friendly regulations
The UAE’s regulatory framework supports commodity trading with clear rules and fast-track licensing. From customs procedures to due diligence protocols, the process is designed to be efficient without compromising on compliance.
Cost of starting a non-manufactured precious metal trading business in Dubai
Starting a precious metal trading business in Dubai doesn’t have to break the bank—but understanding the key costs upfront is essential. Here’s what to budget for:
- Trade license fees:
- Free zone licenses typically start from AED 12,500
- Mainland licenses may cost more depending on activity and office space
- Office or workspace rental:
- Flexi-desk/shared workspace: AED 8,000–AED 15,000 annually
- Private offices or storage facilities will cost more, especially with secure storage
- Registration and initial approval fees:
- Includes company name reservation, initial approval, and admin fees
- Expect to pay between AED 2,000 and AED 5,000
- Visa and establishment card fees:
- Required for legal operation in the UAE
- Around AED 3,500–AED 7,500 per visa, including medicals and Emirates ID
- Bank account setup and capital requirements:
- No fixed capital requirement, but banks may ask for minimum balances
- Ranges from AED 25,000 to AED 100,000 depending on the bank and your risk profile
- Optional: Secure storage and insurance:
- Essential for high-volume or high-value bullion trading
- May be included in free zone packages or offered as paid add-ons
At Trade License Zone, we’ll break down each of these costs clearly and help you choose the most cost-effective structure for your goals—no guesswork, no surprises.
How to market a non-manufactured precious metal trading business in Dubai
Once you’ve set up your business, it’s time to make it shine. Here are the top three marketing tips to help you get started:
1. Build credibility from day one
Trust is everything in this sector. Ensure your company branding, website, and documentation reflect professionalism and legitimacy. Include clear information about your services, compliance standards, and contact details. List your business with the DMCC or other regulatory bodies to boost your credibility.
2. Optimise your online presence
Your website should be more than a digital brochure—it should be a lead-generation engine. Use SEO to target keywords like “buy gold in Dubai” or “precious metal traders UAE.” Keep your site secure and mobile-friendly. A regularly updated blog sharing market insights or pricing trends can also position you as an authority.
3. Network in the right circles
Join commodity trading events, expos, and investor forums across the UAE. The DMCC and Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX) host regular meetups and seminars. These are perfect for building relationships with suppliers, clients, and key decision-makers.
Why work with Trade License Zone
Setting up a non-manufactured precious metal trading business in Dubai can be incredibly rewarding—but only if you get the setup right from the start. That’s where we come in.
At Trade License Zone, we specialise in helping entrepreneurs and investors launch and scale their businesses in the UAE with zero hassle. From selecting the right jurisdiction and handling approvals to securing your license and opening a bank account, we manage the entire process on your behalf.
We understand the ins and outs of the precious metals trade—whether you’re planning to import bullion, work with global suppliers, or store gold in high-security vaults. We tailor our solutions to match your ambitions, budget, and risk profile.
Plus, we’re always on your side. Our dedicated consultants offer honest advice, fast-tracked licensing, and unmatched industry knowledge. We don’t just help you tick boxes—we help you build a business that lasts.
Whether you’re new to Dubai or scaling your trading empire, let’s make your next move the smartest one yet.
Ready to launch your business setup in Dubai? Get in touch with Trade License Zone today—we’ll help you unlock golden opportunities.