Introduction: Gold Trading & Free Zones in UAE
The UAE is one of the biggest gold trading and refining centres in the world, with internationally recognized bullion exchanges. Due to Dubai’s liberal economy, stable governance, and strategic location connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe, entrepreneurs and investors from around the world choose Dubai and other emirates to start gold trading businesses.
Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax (subject to prevailing laws), customs-friendly commerce, and streamlined setup procedures. Choosing the right free zone is essential when starting a gold business in the UAE.
Why Choose a Free Zone for Gold Trading?
- Full Foreign Ownership: No local sponsor required.
- Tax Benefits: Many free zones offer 0% corporate tax and VAT exemptions under qualifying transactions.
- Ease of Setup: Fast licensing, visa issuance, and streamlined customs.
- Global Reach: Ideal for exporters and international trade operations.
- Industry Infrastructure: Many zones provide refineries, secure vaults and logistics for bullion handling.
Benefits of Setting Up Gold Trading in a Free Zone
- 100% repatriation of profits and capital.
- Zero customs duty for trade within/between free zones.
- Simplified compliance with dedicated authorities for licensing and AML registration.
- Recognized by international banks and suppliers.
- Some zones support digital gold trading and fintech integration.
Top Free Zones for Gold Trading in Dubai & UAE
1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
Location: Jumeirah Lakes Towers.
Key Features:
- Houses the Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange (DGCX) for global gold futures.
- State-of-the-art vaults and refineries (Almas Tower).
- Supports physical and digital gold trading, including blockchain-based solutions.
- International reputation for transparency and compliance.
Why DMCC Is Best for Gold Trading:
- Globally recognized regulatory framework and strong AML oversight.
- Quick company registration and dedicated banking support.
License Cost (approx.): AED 30,000–35,000 annually
See Also The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Gold Trading Business in Dubai
2. Dubai Gold & Diamond Park (DGDP)
Location: Near Sheikh Zayed Road.
Key Features:
- Specialised free zone for jewellery manufacturing and retail.
- Workshops, manufacturing units and retail outlets under one license.
- Connected to Dubai’s jewellery and tourist markets.
Why Choose DGDP:
- Proximity to major gold markets and logistics.
- On-site showrooms and manufacturing leases—ideal for jewellers and retailers.
License Cost (approx.): AED 25,000–30,000 annually
3. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
Location: Next to Sharjah International Airport.
Key Features:
- Cost-effective and flexible for import/export of gold.
- Large warehousing and storage options for bullion.
- Customs-free re-export facilities.
Why Choose SAIF Zone:
- Budget-friendly licensing and solid cargo connectivity.
- Suitable for SMEs, bullion dealers and logistics companies.
License Cost (approx.): AED 20,000–25,000 annually
4. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
Location: Adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Key Features:
- Seamless customs clearance and re-export capabilities.
- Preferred for large-scale shipments and international traders.
- Fully digital registration and enterprise-level facilities.
Why Choose DAFZA:
- Ideal for international gold exporters and cross-border e-commerce platforms.
License Cost (approx.): AED 35,000–40,000 annually
5. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi.
Key Features:
- Operates under English Common Law—strong investor confidence.
- Supports digital asset platforms and fintech-integrated bullion trade.
- Hosts licensed financial institutions and bullion funds.
Why Choose ADGM:
- Excellent for fintech, digital gold trading and institutional investors.
- Financial-grade governance and strong AML framework.
License Cost (approx.): AED 35,000–45,000 annually
Licensing Process for Gold Trading in Free Zones
- Choose the free zone based on business model (trading, refining, retail).
- Submit application with proposed trade name and activities.
- Provide KYC documents (passport, business plan, proof of address).
- AML Registration: register on goAML under the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit.
- Pay fees and lease required office/warehouse space.
- Receive license (commonly 5–10 working days) and open corporate bank account.
Cost of Setting Up Gold Trading in Free Zones (Summary)
| Free Zone | License Cost (AED) | Office / Warehouse | Setup Time | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DMCC | 30,000–35,000 | Mandatory flexi/physical office | 7–10 days | Premium reputation |
| DGDP | 25,000–30,000 | Retail + manufacturing | 7 days | Ideal for jewellery retail |
| SAIF Zone | 20,000–25,000 | Warehouse / office optional | 5 days | Cost-effective logistics |
| DAFZA | 35,000–40,000 | Physical office | 10 days | Fast re-export via DXB |
| ADGM | 35,000–45,000 | Office mandatory | 10–12 days | Digital gold & fintech |
Customs, Import & Export Benefits
- Duty-free trade within free zones.
- VAT treatment: reverse charge mechanism often applies when both parties are registered.
- Global re-export capability via Dubai ports and airports.
- Specialised bullion transport and secure logistics providers operate across zones.
Banking & Compliance Requirements
Free zone entities must comply with UAE Central Bank AML/CFT rules. Typical steps:
- Open a corporate bank account (often 2–3 weeks).
- Provide source of funds, invoices and customer KYC to the bank.
- Register with goAML for anti-money-laundering reporting.
- Maintain audited financials annually as required by the free zone.
See Also Start Gold Trading Business in Dubai, UAE: A Complete Guide to Licensing, Setup, and Compliance
Comparison: Best Gold Trading Free Zones
| Parameter | DMCC | DGDP | SAIF Zone | DAFZA | ADGM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Bullion & refining | Retail & manufacturing | Export & storage | Re-export & logistics | Digital gold & fintech |
| Ownership | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Tax | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| License Cost | AED 30k–35k | AED 25k–30k | AED 20k–25k | AED 35k–40k | AED 35k–45k |
| Setup Time | 7–10 days | 7 days | 5 days | 10 days | 10–12 days |
| Suitable For | Traders / refineries | Jewellers / retailers | Startups / exporters | International traders | Fintech / institutions |
Choosing the Right Free Zone for Your Gold Business
Pick a zone based on volume, business model and market reach:
- DMCC — international bullion trade, futures and refining.
- DGDP — jewellery design, retail and small-scale manufacturing.
- SAIF Zone — cost-efficient exports and logistics.
- DAFZA — re-exporters and large shipments via DXB.
- ADGM — fintech, digital-gold platforms and institutional investors.
Conclusion: Building a Gold Business in UAE Free Zones
The UAE offers a robust ecosystem for gold trade — 100% ownership, tax advantages (subject to prevailing laws), world-class infrastructure and global recognition. Selecting the free zone aligned to your gold business strategy will help you establish a strong presence in the heart of the world’s gold capital.
See Also Dubai Free Zones for Web3 Startups: Best Options & Complete Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why is Dubai called the “City of Gold”?
Because of its historic gold souks, tax-free trading advantages and role as a global hub for bullion imports, refining and exports.
2. Is gold trading legal in UAE free zones?
Yes — gold trading is legal and regulated through the UAE Ministry of Economy and free zone authorities (e.g., DMCC, DGDP, ADGM).
3. Can foreigners own 100% of a gold trading business in the UAE?
Yes — all UAE free zones permit 100% foreign ownership with full profit repatriation.
4. What is the cheapest free zone for gold trading?
SAIF Zone is typically one of the most affordable options, with license packages starting from around AED 20,000.
5. What is the most reputable free zone for gold trading?
DMCC is widely recognized internationally for gold and precious metals trade.
6. Can a free zone gold trading company sell in the UAE market?
Not directly — free zone companies usually appoint a mainland distributor or partner to sell locally.
7. Do I need a physical office for my gold business?
Most free zones require at least a flexi-desk or shared office lease as part of licensing, though options vary by zone.
8. What are the VAT implications for gold trading?
When both buyer and seller are VAT-registered, the reverse charge mechanism typically applies, so VAT payment may not occur at transaction time.
9. How long does it take to get a gold trading license in UAE?
Generally 5–10 working days depending on the chosen free zone and completeness of documents.
10. Is AML registration mandatory for gold companies?
Yes — gold trading entities must register on goAML and comply with UAE anti-money-laundering regulations.
Note: Figures and procedures above are approximate and may change based on each free zone authority’s current policy. Always confirm with the chosen free zone and a licensed consultant before initiating registration.