E Commerce License in Dubai – Cost & Requirements

The E-commerce sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has witnessed phenomenal growth in recent years. Experts in the industry believe this surge is just the beginning, projecting the E-commerce sector to soar to a value of USD 8 billion by 2025, indicating a remarkable increase in its current value within a mere four years!

This surge has captured the interest of ambitious entrepreneurs aiming to tap into the lucrative market of the UAE. Consequently, there is a huge demand for E commerce license in Dubai, given the city’s pivotal role as a central hub for numerous online businesses operating within the emirate.

What Is an Ecommerce License in Dubai?

An E-commerce license in Dubai is a legal authorization that permits individuals or companies to engage in E-commerce activities within a specified jurisdiction, typically a country or region. It is a legal requirement for operating an E-commerce business or selling goods and services online.

In Dubai, an ecommerce license is necessary for businesses trading exclusively through digital platforms. Even if your business stocks physical inventory but doesn’t sell in-person or from a physical store, you still need an ecommerce license. However, if your business also plans to sell from retail outlets or showrooms alongside online sales, you can apply for both a trading license and an ecommerce license. This flexibility ensures that your business is properly licensed, whether it operates solely online or combines digital and physical sales channels.

How to Get an E-Commerce License in Dubai, UAE

Choose a Jurisdiction for an E-Commerce License in Dubai:

Begin by selecting the jurisdiction for your E-commerce venture – whether in a free zone or on the mainland in Dubai. RadiantBiz can handle the legal requirements, ensuring you understand how business operations differ in each jurisdiction and the associated restrictions.

Decide On a Company Name for Your E Commerce License in Dubai:

Option for a suitable name for your E-commerce business, adhering to specific rules. Avoid using irrelevant words and ensure your chosen name isn’t already in use by another business.

Submit an Application for an E-Commerce License in UAE:

Initiate the process by submitting an application for E-commerce business approval, ensuring compliance with jurisdiction-specific criteria. RadiantBiz simplifies this process, offering direct application support for free zones or assisting in submissions to the local government or the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland operations.

Create an E-commerce Website:

A pivotal step in E-commerce setup is the development of a reliable, well-optimized, user-friendly, and secure website. RadiantBiz can guide you through this process, ensuring your online platform meets all criteria. Registering a domain name is also part of this step.

Register for E Commerce Residency Visa in UAE:

Following the application submission, proceed to apply for your visa. RadiantBiz expertise can be invaluable in navigating the visa registration process, providing insights into suitable options based on your specific requirements

E-commerce License Cost in Dubai, UAE

Acquiring an E-commerce license in Dubai typically involves costs ranging from 6,500 AED to 10,000 AED for E-commerce businesses. Nevertheless, these expenses can fluctuate based on various factors such as the type of business, business model, size, and structure.

The overall cost of obtaining an E-commerce license is influenced by several key factors. These include the nature of the business, the chosen business model, the size of the enterprise.

The cheapest option to start an e-commerce business in Dubai is to obtain an e-trader licence. The Dubai Department of Economic Development issues the licence for a fee of 1,070 AED.

Also Read : General Trading License in Dubai

Cheapest E-commerce License in Dubai, UAE

Setting up an e-commerce company in Dubai is straightforward, as nearly all UAE free zones offer business activities related to e-commerce, e-marketplaces, or portals.

Factors Affecting E-commerce License Cost in UAE

The cost of an e-commerce license in the UAE depends on several factors:

• Registering Authority: Different free zones have varying fee structures.
• Eligibility for Resident Visas: Some free zones include resident visas in their packages, which can affect the overall cost.
• Facilities: The availability of facilities like flexi-desks, offices, and warehouses can influence the price.

Free Zones Offering E-commerce Licenses

Here are some of the free zones in the UAE that offer e-commerce licenses:

UAQ Free Trade Zone
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)
Ajman Free Zone
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)
DTEC (Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Centre)
Ajman Media City Free Zone
Fujairah Creative City
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)
Commercity

Cheapest E-commerce License in Dubai

The most affordable e-commerce licenses are typically offered by the smaller Emirates. For instance, the UAQ Free Trade Zone in Umm Al Quwain provides cost-effective e-commerce licenses that can be used for online trading in Dubai as well.

Types of E-Commerce Licence in UAE

In the UAE, various types of E-commerce licenses are provided to the specific needs of businesses. In Dubai, specifically, three main E-commerce license options are available, offering flexibility based on both nationality and business activities.

E-Trader Licence:

The E-Trader License in Dubai is ideal for individuals or companies engaged in E-commerce activities exclusively from home or without a physical store. This option stands out as the most straightforward and cost-effective solution for obtaining an E-commerce license.

Portal Licence:

The Portal License, accessible to non-UAE nationals as well, allows entrepreneurs to establish an online business in Dubai by connecting buyers and sellers. It is particularly well-suited for operating a listing website that features products, services, or reservations.

Virtual Company Licence:

Launched by the Dubai Economy, the Virtual Company License extends the opportunity for overseas investors and non-residents of the UAE to conduct commercial activities in the region. This innovative license eliminates the necessity of setting up a physical office, offering a significant advantage for businesses seeking to expand their presence into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Also Read : Industrial License in Dubai

Advantages of Starting an E-commerce Business in Dubai, UAE

Dubai stands out as one of the most rapidly growing e-commerce markets in the Middle East and North Africa, making it a compelling choice for entrepreneurs aiming to establish their online businesses.

Business-Friendly Environment:

Unlike many countries with strict regulations, the UAE provide businesses with a range of tax incentives, tax holidays, and a low Dubai free zone license cost. This favorable environment includes no personal income tax, capital gains tax, withholding tax, and a 0% VAT rate for product and service exports.

Strategic Location:

Situated at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe, the UAE offers an unparalleled location that serves as a gateway to growth markets. With two-thirds of the population within an eight-hour flight, businesses benefit from easy access to the sea and proximity to Dubai International Airport, the world’s largest airports according to the World Bank Logistics Performance.

Infrastructure Investment Hub:

Widely recognized as a prime destination for infrastructure investments, the UAE provides businesses with a host of advantages. This includes high-standard manufacturing units and warehouses, a central hub for maritime activity and transportation, a variety of office spaces, an extensive road network connecting neighboring Oman and Saudi Arabia, and a global aviation hub with seven international airports.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity:

The UAE boasts the highest-speed broadband globally, supporting over 93% of homes. This advanced technological infrastructure contributes to the seamless operations of e-commerce companies.

Robust Banking and Payment Solutions:

E-commerce companies in the UAE enjoy the benefits of fast, easy, and secure banking services. The country’s reliable banks have proven their stability even during global crises. Moreover, a variety of payment providers such as Stripe, PayTabs, and HyperPay cater to businesses of all sizes.

What Are the Required Documents for an Ecommerce License in Dubai?

When establishing an e-commerce company in Dubai, the documentation process varies depending on the type of shareholders involved. Whether individual or corporate, ensuring the submission of the essentials documents for a smooth setup.

For E-commerce Companies with Individual Shareholders:

To set up an e-commerce company in Dubai with individual shareholders, the following documents are necessary:

• Passport copy
• Digital passport photo
• Application Form with UBO information
• Emirates ID and Visa Copy for UAE residents

For E-commerce Companies with Corporate Shareholders:

If corporate shareholders are involved in setting up an e-commerce company in Dubai, the following documents are required:

• Passport copy of every shareholder and General Manager of the corporate shareholder
• Digital passport photo of every shareholder and General Manager of the corporate shareholder
• Application form with UBO information
• Emirates ID and Visa Copy of a shareholder who is a UAE resident
• Board Resolution
• Memorandum & Articles of Association of the corporate shareholder (or its equivalent)
• Valid Trade License (or its equivalent)
• Certificate of Incorporation or Formation of the corporate shareholder

Ensuring the timely and accurate submission of these documents is crucial for a successful and compliant setup of your e-commerce business in Dubai.

How to apply for an e-commerce license in Dubai, UAE

Step 1: Understand the UAE Market

Contrary to misconceptions, market research isn’t reserved for large corporations with extensive budgets. Utilize your smartphone and Wi-Fi connection to conduct effective research, gaining insights into customer needs and expectations. Analyze online forums to identify market gaps and align your product with the market potential.

Step 2: Choose the Right Jurisdiction

Decide between a Free Zone or Mainland setup based on your business goals. Mainland operations allow direct trading with the local UAE market, while international Free Zones offer advantages like low tax rates, customs tax exemption, no currency restrictions, and full capital and profit repatriation.

Step 3: Follow Company Naming Rules

Adhere to the UAE naming regulations when choosing a company name, a crucial step in the process of obtaining your e-commerce license.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

The application process varies based on the chosen setup. Apply to the municipality or Department of Economy and Tourism for Mainland operations, or directly to the chosen Free Zone for international setups. Ensure a complete and error-free application to avoid rejections or delays.

Step 5: Apply for a Visa

After submitting your e-commerce license application, proceed to apply for your UAE residence visa. Explore options for visas for employees, family members, or domestic staff based on your business size and location.

Step 6: Open A Bank Account

Establishing a corporate bank account is essential for your business in the UAE. Seek professional assistance from reputable business formation companies like RadiantBiz for easy bank account opening process, and ensuring compliance with all formalities.

Are you ready to setup a buiness in Dubai with RadiantBiz? If you want to learn about starting business in UAE, you can contact us by calling +971 50 797 4832 or sending a WhatsApp message to +971 50 777 5554. You can also email us at info@radiantbiz.com for assistance.

FAQ – Ecommerce License in Dubai

• How much is an ecommerce license in Dubai?
  An ecommerce license in Dubai typically costs between 6500 AED to 10000 AED for e-commerce businesses. The price may vary depending on factors like business type, size, and structure.
• What license do I need to sell online in Dubai?
  To operate an e-commerce business in the UAE, you must obtain an e-commerce license.
• What can you do with an ecommerce license in Dubai?
  Once approved, you can swiftly register your business and open a corporate bank account. With an ecommerce license in Dubai, you gain access to the UAE market, enabling you to sell goods and services online nationwide.
• Do I need a license to sell on Amazon in UAE?
  Yes, selling products on Amazon UAE requires an e-commerce license.
• Do I need a license to sell on Shopify in UAE?
  Yes, you need an e-commerce license to operate a Shopify store in the UAE.
• Can I do dropshipping in UAE?
  Yes, dropshipping is legal in the UAE, but you must obtain a trade license to operate your business legally and avoid penalties under the Commercial Companies Law.
• How long is the eCommerce license valid in Dubai?
  The ecommerce license in Dubai is valid for up to 6 months and cannot be renewed. It is obtained alongside the trade name approval application.
• What is the difference between an e-trader license and an e-commerce license in Dubai?
  An e-trader license is limited to social media sales, while an ecommerce license in Dubai allows selling through websites and platforms like Amazon and Noon across the UAE.
• Can I open a bank account with an ecommerce license in Dubai?
  Yes, an ecommerce license in UAE enables you to open a corporate bank account in Dubai, but specific documentation is required for the bank account opening process.

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