Get Your E-Commerce License in Dubai, UAE
Let our experienced experts help you apply for and obtain an e-commerce license in the UAE. Claim your slice of a thriving retail industry.
How to Apply for E-Commerce License
Acquiring an e-commerce license in the UAE can be a complex process, which varies between Emirates. Here’s a breakdown to help you prepare and understand the essential steps involved:
Before you start the official process, you’ll need to grab the following documents and information:
- Details such as company name, business activity, and share ratio.
- Copies of passport/visa, entry stamp, and contact information of all shareholders.
- Photos — if required by the chosen free zone.
The e-commerce license application process differs between jurisdictions, so it’s important to get in touch and familiarize yourself with what’s required as soon as possible.
- Submit all required documents to the selected free zone or mainland jurisdiction.
- Upon document reception, your application undergoes initial approval, usually accompanied by a payment ranging from AED 5,750 onwards.
- Some jurisdictions mandate pre-approval before issuing the license, with processing times varying from three to seven days in free zones and up to two days in the mainland.
After successful processing, digital copies of the license are typically dispatched. Some free zones might require original documents sent at a later date.
If your e-commerce license package includes visa(s), the visa application process starts post-issuance of the immigration card.
E-Commerce Licenses in the Mainland, UAE
If you need an e-commerce license in the mainland, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the various options in the Mainland.
In Dubai, you can apply for the eTrader license from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) to conduct business on social media platforms. However, it’s currently limited to UAE and GCC nationals residing in Dubai. Alternatively, you can opt for a general trading license in Dubai mainland, starting from AED 30,000 — allowing online commercial activities.
Abu Dhabi offers the Tajer Abu Dhabi license, which permits online business activities for UAE and GCC nationals. It supports different legal structures, including establishments, single-shareholder companies, and limited liability companies.
Sharjah provides the Eitimad license for home-based and online businesses operating via social media, which is available to UAE nationals in Sharjah aged 18 and above.
Ras Al Khaimah introduces the Virtual Merchant License, enabling UAE nationals to conduct online business activities, including retail, IT, real estate brokerage, advisory, and professional services via social media, websites, or apps.
E-Commerce Licenses in UAE Free Zones
Several free zones in the UAE are welcoming e-commerce enterprises right now. Some prominent options include
Make sure you choose the free zone location that’s best suited to your e-commerce business.