Key Benefits

Access to a Global Gold Trading Hub

Dubai handles approximately 25% of the world's physical gold trade, making it a strategic location for precious metals businesses. Our licensing service positions you at the heart of this thriving market, providing access to an established ecosystem of suppliers, refiners, and buyers. We help you capitalize on Dubai's tax-efficient environment and strategic location between Asian and European markets, maximizing your trading potential in the global gold supply chain.

Regulatory Compliance Assurance

Gold trading in Dubai is subject to strict regulations including anti-money laundering protocols and responsible sourcing requirements. Our specialists ensure your business meets all DMCC, UAE Central Bank, and international compliance standards from day one. We implement proper documentation systems and compliance frameworks that satisfy regulatory scrutiny, protecting your business reputation and preventing costly legal issues that can arise from improper licensing.

Market Credibility and Operational Freedom

A properly structured gold trading license establishes immediate credibility with suppliers, buyers, and financial institutions. Our service secures the optimal license classification for your specific business model, whether focusing on wholesale, retail, or manufacturing. We ensure your license covers all intended activities, from physical gold trading to precious metal financing or jewelry manufacturing, providing operational flexibility to explore diverse revenue streams within the gold industry.

Strategic Business Structure Planning

The gold trading sector offers various establishment options, each with distinct advantages for different business goals. Our consultants analyze your investment capacity, operational needs, and growth plans to recommend the most advantageous business structure. We guide you through jurisdictional choices between DMCC Free Zone and mainland options, optimizing your corporate setup for tax efficiency, operational flexibility, and potential future expansion across the precious metals value chain.

Stages of Cooperation

Initial Consultation and Strategic Planning

The journey begins with an in-depth assessment of your gold trading business goals, preferred activities, and investment capacity. Our experts will explain the different license categories within the gold sector and recommend the optimal jurisdiction between DMCC Free Zone and mainland options. During this phase, we develop a comprehensive roadmap for your gold trading license, outlining all regulatory requirements, estimated timelines, and strategic considerations.

Company Formation and Documentation Preparation

We establish your legal entity structure according to the selected jurisdiction and prepare all required documentation for the gold trading license application. This includes drafting company memoranda, shareholder agreements, and business plans specifically tailored for precious metals trading. Our team also develops mandatory anti-money laundering policies and responsible sourcing documentation that align with DMCC and international standards for the gold industry.

Application Submission and Initial Approvals

Our specialists submit your comprehensive application package to the relevant authorities (DMCC or Department of Economic Development) and manage all communication during the review process. We secure initial approvals and handle any additional information requests promptly. During this stage, we also initiate the process for obtaining necessary No Objection Certificates from regulatory bodies such as the UAE Central Bank and relevant security departments.

Facility Setup and Compliance Implementation

While awaiting final license approval, we assist with establishing your physical trading premises according to regulatory requirements, including security measures for precious metals handling. Our team implements comprehensive compliance systems specifically designed for gold trading operations, including transaction documentation protocols, customer due diligence procedures, and reporting mechanisms that satisfy both UAE and international compliance standards.

Final License Issuance and Operational Guidance

Upon completing all regulatory requirements, we coordinate the issuance of your gold trading license and related permits. Our support continues with practical guidance for commencing operations, including banking relationship establishment, supplier verification procedures, and industry network introductions. We provide ongoing compliance support during your initial trading period, ensuring proper implementation of all regulatory requirements for sustainable business operations.

Join 10,000 Happy Customers

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from entrepreneurs who have successfully established their businesses in Dubai. Learn from their experiences and gain insights into the possibilities that await you.

Top-rated business setup consultancy in Dubai on Google

Alexander Petrov

Amazing service! Everything is done very quickly and responsibly.

Elena Sokolova

We have been working with SNM Solutions & management for almost two years - this time is enough to be convinced of the professionalism of the team. I express my deep gratitude to Julia, Saltanat and Jamilya for their help, advice and participation in our business. Thank you!

Dmitry Vasiliev

Excellent accounting service! I used the company's services to open our own enterprise, and were pleasantly surprised by the professionalism and efficiency. Accountants not only helped me with all the necessary paperwork, but also continue to support m company in our business activities. They are always in touch, ready to help and answer all questions. I recommend this company to everyone who values quality and reliability in accounting.

Marina Kuznetsova

We've been outsourcing our legal part with this company since the beginning of 2023. The company has great managers with a solid ability of the managers to solve complex tasks. Also they could explain every step and tell you what they're doing and why.

Igor Volkov

Amazing service. They helped me with my company opening, updating my trade license, getting visas and much much more. Accounting services are also provided by SNM and Im absolutely satisfied. Should mentioned that Im not the best client - not really well organized and a lot of my requests are very spontaneous. Already recommended SNM to my friends and colleagues.Thanks to Yuliya and Jamilya!

Questions and Answers

Can foreigners own 100% of a gold trading business in Dubai?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is possible when establishing your gold trading business in the DMCC Free Zone. For mainland companies, recent changes to UAE Commercial Companies Law have opened some sectors to full foreign ownership, though gold trading may still require a local service agent or partner in certain cases. Our consultants provide strategic guidance on ownership structures that maximize control while meeting regulatory requirements.

How do banking relationships work for gold trading businesses?

Gold trading companies undergo enhanced due diligence when establishing banking relationships due to the sector’s higher risk profile. Banks require comprehensive documentation including detailed business plans, AML policies, and source of funds verification. DMCC-licensed companies typically have access to a wider range of banking options. Our service includes guidance on preparing optimal banking packages and introductions to financial institutions experienced with precious metals businesses.

How long does it take to obtain a Gold Trading License in Dubai?

The complete process typically takes 4-8 weeks for DMCC Free Zone licenses and 6-10 weeks for mainland establishments. This timeline includes company formation, initial approvals, security clearances, and final license issuance. Additional time may be required for specialized activities requiring supplementary approvals from the UAE Central Bank or security departments. Our streamlined process can potentially reduce these timelines by 30-40%.

What are the compliance requirements specific to gold trading in Dubai?

Gold traders must implement comprehensive anti-money laundering (AML) systems including customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting. The DMCC requires adherence to its Responsible Sourcing of Precious Metals Protocol, based on OECD guidelines. Traders must maintain detailed records of all transactions, supplier information, and gold origin documentation. Regular compliance audits are conducted, and annual reports must be submitted to regulatory authorities.

What are the tax implications for gold trading businesses in Dubai?

Dubai offers a highly advantageous tax environment for gold traders with zero corporate and personal income tax. Value Added Tax (VAT) applies at 5% for most commercial transactions, however, wholesale trading of pure gold (99% purity and above) is VAT-exempt in the UAE. Retail jewelry typically incurs the standard VAT rate. Import duties may apply depending on your business model, though DMCC Free Zone operations enjoy customs duty exemptions on imports and exports.

What is the minimum capital requirement for a gold trading license in Dubai?

The minimum capital requirement ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 1 million depending on your license jurisdiction and business activities. DMCC Free Zone gold trading companies typically require a minimum of AED 50,000 for service companies and AED 500,000 for trading entities. Mainland gold trading businesses may require higher capital, particularly for wholesale operations. Additionally, the UAE Central Bank may impose further financial guarantees for certain types of precious metals operations.

What ongoing regulatory requirements must gold traders fulfill?

Gold trading licenses require annual renewal along with regular compliance reporting. Traders must maintain comprehensive transaction records, conduct periodic risk assessments, and update AML policies regularly. DMCC members must undergo annual review of responsible sourcing practices and may be subject to third-party audits. Regular reporting to the UAE Central Bank is required for transactions exceeding certain thresholds, with requirements for suspicious activity reporting within specific timeframes.

What types of gold trading activities can be conducted with this license?

A Gold Trading License in Dubai covers various activities including wholesale trading of gold bars and bullion, retail jewelry operations, gold refining, assaying services, and precious metals brokerage. The specific activities permitted depend on your license classification, with options for physical trading only or combined trading and manufacturing. Different jurisdictions offer varying scopes – DMCC licenses typically allow broader international trading while mainland licenses may be preferable for local retail operations.

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