How to Obtain an E-commerce License in Dubai? Dubai’s world-renowned position as a melting pot of culture and industry makes it one of the most suitable places on the planet to set up a thriving e-commerce venture. Thanks to a digital market that is always on an upward growth trajectory, it has since become a hub for online retail. If you are among the many entrepreneurs that have a vision of cashing in on this boom by setting up your own e-commerce venture, the first all important step is to secure your e-commerce license in Dubai. You’re in the right place, as this blog seeks to unravel just that!
First off, you’d want to determine the structure and location of your business. The most popular options are either a mainland or freezone business. The pros and cons are as follows:
- Mainland – Gives you more flexibility not just in Dubai, but across the UAE.
- Free Zone – Presents sought after benefits including 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. However, direct sales within the UAE are restricted
If you decide to go down the free zone route, you would need to pick one that best suits your needs. Popular choices for e-commerce ventures include Dubai CommerCity, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and Jebel Ali Free Zone. Map out your business goals and the choose the free zone that best aligns with them, as the specific requirements of each free zone differ.
Next, decide on the name of your company. The UAE has some conventions with regard to company names. It is your responsibility as a business owner to ensure that the company name complies with these regulations.
Once you’ve chosen a name, apply for initial approval with the free zone authority or the Department of Economic Development for mainland businesses. Do note that if your business will be based in mainland Dubai, drafting a Memorandum of Association which outlines the business structure and shareholder arrangements is essential.
In order to complete the licensing process, free zones require businesses to lease an office space. Because this would be an e-commerce business, a shared office space would do in most cases.
Once this is done, you are ready to submit your license application. During this process, documents such as your MOA, lease agreement and passport copies of all shareholders will have to be submitted along with the application. Once fees are paid and your application is approved, you will receive your e-commerce license. This will enable you to open an essential corporate bank account in Dubai.
After completing all formalities, you can officially start your online business operations.
Estimated Cost
The cost for an e-commerce license in Dubai can range from AED 10,000 to AED 50,000, depending on factors like the business location (mainland vs. free zone), office space, and additional services required.
Got Questions? Reach out to SetHub!
If you’re still unclear about how to secure your E-commerce license in Dubai, reach out to SetHub. We’re always available in case you need some tailored advice. Working with us ensures that this process will be smooth and hassle free!
Why Choose SetHub?
Our team of legal and business experts is well-versed in UAE regulations and procedures.
- Schedule a call with us and hear back within one business hour.
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Reach out now and let us help you through every concern you have in regard to E-Commerce License in Dubai.
