Online shopping in the UAE keeps growing, and setting up a licensed online store is simpler than most people expect. A proper ecommerce license in Dubai lets you open a bank account, connect payment gateways and sell legally across the UAE and abroad.
Free zone or mainland for ecommerce?
- Free zone ecommerce license: the lowest cost route, ideal for selling online internationally or through marketplaces. Main Zone's free zone starter package starts from AED 5,500 for the first year.
- Mainland ecommerce license: better if you plan to hold stock in the UAE and deliver directly to UAE customers at scale, or open a physical store later.
What you can sell
Most general goods can be sold under an ecommerce license. Regulated products such as cosmetics, food, supplements and medical items need product registration, for example through Dubai Municipality's Montaji system.
Ask about Montaji product registration
Steps to get started
- Choose your activities and jurisdiction.
- Reserve your trade name.
- Get your license and incorporation documents.
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Connect a payment gateway and your online store platform.
- Register products if they are regulated.
Payment gateways
Most payment gateways in the UAE require a trade license and a corporate bank account. Prepare your website, refund policy and terms of service before you apply, as gateways check them.
FAQ
Yes. A licensed UAE company can register as a seller on major marketplaces.
No. The free zone starter package has no visa included, and you can add visas any time.
Talk to the advisors who handle this every day
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