A Dubai office supplies trading licence costs AED 12,000–25,000 all-in (2026) and requires DET commercial registration with the appropriate activity code. You’ll need a warehouse or shop space (registered via Ejari), MOHRE labour approval, and Dubai Customs import codes for goods. Setup typically takes 7–14 days from document submission.
What Is a Dubai Office Supplies Trading Licence?
An office supplies trading licence permits individuals and companies to import, stock, and sell stationery, paper products, printing supplies, and related items across Dubai. Governed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this Dubai business setup activity falls under commercial trading classifications. Whether you focus on B2B distribution or retail, a valid DET commercial licence and warehouse/shop premises are mandatory.
DET Activity Codes for Office Supplies & Stationery
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism assigns specific activity codes for office supplies trading. The primary code is 4741 (Retail sale of stationery) for shop-based operations, and 4642 (Wholesale of office supplies) for warehouse and distribution models. Some traders register under combined codes if handling both retail and wholesale. Request the precise code during licence application based on your business model.
Unsure which code fits your model? Our Dubai business setup consultants confirm the right classification.
Office Supplies Trading Licence Cost Breakdown 2026
Total all-in cost ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 25,000 depending on location and trade name scope:
| Cost Component | AED Range |
|---|---|
| DET Commercial Licence (1 year) | AED 4,000–8,000 |
| Ejari (Shop/Warehouse Lease Registration) | AED 2,000–5,000 |
| MOHRE Labour Card & Approvals | AED 2,000–4,000 |
| Dubai Customs Import Code Setup | AED 1,500–3,000 |
| Trade Name Registration & Documents | AED 1,500–3,000 |
| Pro Bono & Government Fees | AED 500–2,000 |
Costs vary by emirate (mainland Dubai vs. free zones like JAFZA or DIP charge differently). Always request a transparent quotation before committing.
Warehouse & Ejari Requirements
A registered physical space is essential. You must provide either a shop lease (for retail) or a warehouse facility (for wholesale/distribution). Both must be registered via Ejari—Dubai Land Department’s tenancy platform—and the Ejari certificate submitted to DET. Minimum space is typically 500–1,000 sq. ft., though stationery operations can function in smaller areas. Ejari registration costs AED 2,000–5,000 and takes 3–5 days.
Need help securing compliant premises? We guide on location selection and Ejari filing.
Customs & Import Compliance for Office Supplies
If importing stationery or paper products, you’ll need a Dubai Customs import code. Apply via the General Department of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) and Dubai Customs. The HS code for office supplies typically falls under 4810–4820 (paper goods) or 9609–9612 (pencils, pens, markers). Setup time: 5–7 days. Cost: AED 1,500–3,000. Ensure all imports comply with UAE food-safety and labelling standards where applicable.
Key Requirements & Timeline
Setup takes 7–14 business days from submission of complete documents. Core requirements: valid trade name, Ejari certificate, passport copy, visa copy, bank reference, and completed DET application form. For foreign investors, a UAE sponsor or 51% local partner is not required in mainland Dubai (but check your specific activity). Processing is faster if all documents are error-free and submitted to Dubai business setup consultants who manage DET directly.
Sub-Activities Within Office Supplies Trading
Office supplies trading often includes overlapping sub-activities:
- Paper & Stationery Retail: Notepads, envelopes, folders, sticky notes (DET code 4741).
- Printing Supplies & Consumables: Ink cartridges, toner, thermal paper, receipts (DET code 4642 or 2790).
- Office Furniture & Equipment: Desk organizers, filing cabinets, storage boxes (cross-registered under 3110 if significant).
- Corporate Gifts & Branded Items: Promotional stationery, customized pens, branded notepads (DET code 4649).
Declare all intended sub-activities on your DET application to avoid compliance issues later.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an office supplies trading licence cost in Dubai in 2026?
A complete office supplies trading licence in Dubai costs AED 12,000–25,000 all-in. This covers DET commercial registration (AED 4,000–8,000), Ejari warehouse/shop registration (AED 2,000–5,000), MOHRE labour approvals (AED 2,000–4,000), Dubai Customs import setup (AED 1,500–3,000), and ancillary fees. Exact cost depends on location, space size, and whether you trade retail or wholesale.
What DET activity code covers stationery and office supplies trading?
The primary DET codes are 4741 (retail sale of stationery) and 4642 (wholesale of office supplies). Code 4741 suits retail shops; 4642 suits warehouse distribution. Some traders register dual codes if handling both channels. Request the precise code during licence application. Dubai Business Services helps confirm the correct classification for your model.
Do I need a shop or warehouse for an office supplies trading licence in Dubai?
Yes, a registered physical space is mandatory. Retail stationery requires a shop lease; wholesale requires a warehouse. Both must be registered via Ejari (Dubai Land Department’s tenancy system). Minimum space is typically 500–1,000 sq. ft. Ejari registration takes 3–5 days and costs AED 2,000–5,000. Submit the Ejari certificate with your DET application.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a stationery trading company in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can own 100% of an office supplies trading business in mainland Dubai without a local sponsor or partner. However, if trading in certain free zones (JAFZA, DIP), a 51% local partner may be required—check the free zone’s rules. Always confirm ownership rules with your chosen jurisdiction before registration.
How long does an office supplies trading licence take in Dubai?
A standard office supplies trading licence takes 7–14 business days from document submission to DET. Timeline depends on document accuracy and Ejari availability. If documents are complete and error-free, DBS can accelerate processing to 7–10 days by liaising with DET directly. MOHRE and Dubai Customs approvals run in parallel.
What customs and import codes do I need for stationery goods?
Stationery imports use HS codes under 4810–4820 (paper goods), 9609–9612 (pens, pencils, markers), or 3920 (plastic stationery). Apply for a Dubai Customs import code via GDRFA and Dubai Customs. This takes 5–7 days and costs AED 1,500–3,000. Ensure all imports comply with UAE labelling standards and food-contact regulations if applicable.
What sub-activities can I declare under an office supplies trading licence?
Common sub-activities include paper & stationery retail (DET 4741), printing supplies & consumables (4642/2790), office furniture & storage (3110), and promotional/branded items (4649). Declare all intended activities on your DET application to avoid compliance gaps. You can expand sub-activities later via a licence amendment (AED 500–1,500).
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