How to Start a Gold Business in Dubai, UAE
by Shethana May 06, 2025 
6 MIN READ
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Gold has become one of the most discussed commodities globally, especially after the 2025 tariff wars that have impacted global gold rates. Prices have surged—crossing AED 1 million for 10 grams in some markets. Yet, Dubai plays it safe when it comes to gold.
Widely known as the “City of Gold,” Dubai has positioned itself as a global hub for gold trading. Its tax-free gold purchase, absence of import duties, and secure infrastructure make it the ideal destination for gold investors, traders, and manufacturers.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a startup entrepreneur, this guide will walk you through how to start a gold business in Dubai, including legal requirements, licensing, costs, and smart strategies for success.
Table of contents
- Why Choose Dubai for Gold Trading?
- Legal Requirements & Business Structures
- Required Documents
- How to Get a Gold Trading License in Dubai
- Types of Gold Businesses You Can Start in Dubai
- Cost of Setting Up a Gold Business in Dubai
- Benefits of Starting a Gold Business in Dubai
- Key Challenges & Solutions
- Marketing Strategy for Your Gold Business
- Additional Related Opportunities
- Conclusion
Why Choose Dubai for Gold Trading?
Strategic Location
Dubai’s central location connects Asia, Europe, and Africa—making it a strategic base for international trade. Its logistics hubs, like Jebel Ali Port, make importing and exporting seamless.
Economic & Tax Advantages
Dubai’s tax-free environment for gold (zero import duties and VAT exemptions on certain precious metals) ensures maximum profit margins. There’s also no personal income tax, and corporate tax is minimal (or non-existent if profit is below AED 375,000).
Booming Demand & Global Reach
With millions of tourists and a diverse resident population, gold demand in Dubai is consistently high. The city offers significant opportunities for re-export to international markets.
Business-Friendly Infrastructure
Free zones like Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Dubai Gold and Diamond Park offer world-class infrastructure and facilities for safe, regulated gold trade.
Legal Requirements & Business Structures
Before starting operations, understanding Dubai’s business setup requirements is crucial.
Mainland Business Setup
Ideal for entrepreneurs targeting local markets. You’ll need a business license from the DED (Department of Economic Development). While earlier a local sponsor was required, 2025 reforms allow 100% foreign ownership in most activities.
Explore options for business setup in Business Bay Dubai and business setup in Meydan Dubai, two prime mainland locations ideal for gold retail and investment offices.
Free Zone Business Setup
Setting up in zones like DMCC allows:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Full profit repatriation
- Simplified licensing
DMCC is also known for being the top business setup consultants in DMCC Dubai for gold, diamonds, and commodities.
Consider business setup in Dubai Studio City Free Zone if you want to focus on creative branding or content related to luxury gold products.
Dubai Gold & Diamond Park
Tailored for jewelry manufacturing and precious metals. Offers 24/7 secured premises, workshops, retail units, and a network of seasoned traders.
Required Documents
To start a gold trading business, you will typically need:
- Trade Name Reservation
- Shareholder Passport Copies
- Office Lease Agreement
- Notarized Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Approvals from DED or DMCC
- Security clearance from SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency)
How to Get a Gold Trading License in Dubai
- Choose Jurisdiction: Mainland, Free Zone, or Gold & Diamond Park
- Reserve Trade Name: As per DED or Free Zone Authority
- Apply for License: With DED (for mainland) or DMCC (for free zone)
- Register the Company: Submit MoA, lease, shareholder details
- Secure Other Approvals: SIRA, customs, and compliance depending on activity
- Open a Corporate Bank Account: Provide license and business documents
If you’re wondering how to get a gold trading license in Dubai, working with professional consultants is recommended to simplify the process.
Types of Gold Businesses You Can Start in Dubai
- Wholesale/Retail Gold Trading
- Retail outlets in Gold Souk or Dubai Mall
- Kiosks or eCommerce platforms
- Jewelry Manufacturing
- Ideal in Dubai Gold & Diamond Park or business setup in Dubai Design District
- Creative flexibility and high demand
- Gold Refining & Recycling
- Capital intensive but scalable
- Aligns with manufacturing business setup in Dubai
- Gold Investment & Digital Trading
- Start a platform to offer gold ETFs or fractional ownership
- Combine this with artificial intelligence AI business setup in Dubai to offer smart trading tools
- Export & Re-export of Gold
- High ROI business model
- Supported by Dubai’s logistics and low business setup penalties in Dubai
Cost of Setting Up a Gold Business in Dubai
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Gold Trading License | 15,000 – 40,000 |
| Retail or Office Space (per year) | 30,000 – 200,000+ |
| Staff Salaries | 3,000 – 15,000 / employee |
| Marketing & Branding | 20,000 – 50,000 (initially) |
| Misc. (legal, permits, SIRA, insurance) | 10,000 – 25,000 |
If you’re just starting out, begin as a sole proprietorship business setup in Dubai, especially for retail or investment-based trading.
Benefits of Starting a Gold Business in Dubai
- 100% Foreign Ownership in most free zones and many mainland activities
- Tax-free gold purchase and no import duty
- Robust legal & financial systems for trade compliance
- Access to global markets via Dubai’s logistics ecosystem
- Safe & secure trading zones, including DMCC and Dubai Gold & Diamond Park
Key Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Understanding tax regulations | Hire compliance experts or a business setup consultant |
| Bank account delays | Prepare KYC, MoA, and detailed business plan in advance |
| High competition in market | Focus on branding & partnerships (DMCC events, exhibitions) |
| Visa processing | Work with registered agents or business setup consultants in DMCC Dubai |
Marketing Strategy for Your Gold Business
Branding
Build a luxury, trustworthy image through custom packaging, certifications, and a professional showroom setup.
Digital Marketing
Leverage SEO (Google search for how to start gold business in Dubai), Google Ads, and content marketing to drive traffic. Integrate eCommerce if possible.
Influencer Collaborations
Work with luxury lifestyle influencers in Dubai for product placements and credibility.
B2B Partnerships
Attend trade events in DMCC and Gold Souk to establish partnerships with bulk buyers and re-exporters.
Additional Related Opportunities
- How to start a perfume business in Dubai
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For entrepreneurs interested in broader luxury services - Restaurant and cafeteria business setup in Dubai
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For investors exploring healthcare alongside trading
Conclusion
Starting a gold business in Dubai is not only profitable but also well-supported by a robust business ecosystem. With 100% ownership, tax-free benefits, and access to a global market, Dubai remains unmatched for gold trading.
Whether you’re setting up in DMCC, Gold & Diamond Park, or the mainland, ensure you consult experts like Arnifi—the best business setup consultants in Dubai—to guide you through licensing, banking, and scaling.
Book your free consultation today and enter the gold business with confidence!
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