Dubai is known as an international city due to the presence of people from all over the globe. It is the reason that international trends enter Dubai very quickly. Dubai is also a business hub. Both factors are encouraging a surge in e-commerce business in Dubai. E-commerce relates to online shopping, which is gaining immense popularity worldwide.
Company Formation the Smart Way !
E-Commerce License in Dubai
There are several factors favoring the growth of e-commerce in Dubai: internet usage exceeds 90%, and the taxation system benefits online businesses. To start any e-commerce venture, the most important step is to obtain an e-commerce license in Dubai. An individual or company must complete several steps to do so.
Steps to obtain an E-Commerce License in Dubai
- Choose your Business Type
Decide on the legal structure for your e-commerce venture. Options include an LLC (Limited Liability Company), branch of a company, representative office, professional company, joint venture, or single-person company (freelance). The licensing process varies slightly by structure. - Select Business Location
You can operate on the mainland or within a free zone. Popular free zones for e-commerce include Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Science Park. Mainland licences are issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); each free zone has its own authority. - Register Trade Name
Reserve a unique, memorable name that can also serve as your domain. Submit it to DET for mainland or to your chosen free-zone authority. - Apply for E-Commerce License
Submit your application and fee to DET (mainland) or the relevant free-zone authority. - Obtain Initial Approval Certificate
This NOC from the authority allows you to proceed with licensing. It’s valid for six months and cannot be renewed. You can apply for it alongside your trade-name reservation. - Draft Memorandum of Association
Mainland only: Prepare and notarize the MoA with your local sponsor or partner. - Set Up a Physical Office
A physical office is mandatory. Secure a tenancy contract (Ejari for mainland, lease agreement for free zone). - Obtain E-Commerce License
After submitting all required documents, you’ll receive your licence—typically within seven days of approval. - Get Importer’s Code
Register with Dubai Customs or the relevant ports authority to receive your importer’s code. - Open Corporate Bank Account
With your licence and tenancy contract, open a business account at any UAE bank.
Documents Required for an E-Commerce License
- Duly filled licence application
- Passport copies of partners/shareholders
- Memorandum of Association (mainland only)
- Trade-name approval letter
- Business plan summary
- Fee payment receipt
Benefits of an E-Commerce License
- Conduct local and international trade freely
- Quick and straightforward company incorporation
- Low operational and import-duty costs
- Trade multiple product lines under a single licence
- Eligibility for employee visas and three-year residence visas
- 100% foreign ownership in free zones
- Full repatriation of profits and capital
- No currency restrictions; free fund transfers
Getting an e-commerce licence in Dubai is highly profitable and faces relatively low competition. Whether you choose mainland or a free zone, Smart Business Creation Consultancy can guide you through every step.
Company Formation the Smart Way !
