Industry · E-commerce
E-commerce Business Setup in Dubai
License, payment gateway and customs — set up to sell online, properly.
Dubai is a launchpad for online brands selling across the GCC and beyond. The right structure depends on what you sell and where your customers are — a free zone e-commerce licence for services and international/B2B sales, or a mainland licence to deliver to UAE consumers with a storefront presence.
Indicative from ~AED 6,500 for a lean free zone e-commerce licence; more with visas, office and a mainland option.
What's involved
The right licence
Free zone e-commerce for international/B2B and services; mainland to sell physical goods to UAE consumers with local delivery.
Payment gateway
You'll need a UAE business bank account first, then a gateway. Your licensed activity and website must line up or onboarding stalls.
Customs code
Importing physical stock means registering a customs code linked to your licence.
Marketplace-ready
Selling on regional marketplaces has its own seller-registration and trade-licence requirements — we set you up correctly.
VAT
Cross AED 375,000 turnover and VAT registration is mandatory; voluntary registration is possible above AED 187,500.
Recommended free zones
IFZA
Dubai · from AED 12,900/yr*
Meydan
Dubai · from AED 12,500/yr*
SHAMS
Sharjah · from AED 5,750/yr*
SPC
Sharjah · from AED 5,000/yr*
Frequently asked
01Which licence do I need to sell online in Dubai?＋
An e-commerce or trading licence. Free zones suit international/B2B and services; a mainland licence is usually better to sell physical goods to UAE consumers with local delivery.
02Do I need a customs code?＋
Yes, to import physical stock. Free zones handle import into the zone; distribution to the mainland has its own customs and duty implications.
Start here
Ready to incorporate in Dubai?
Book a free 30-minute consultation. We'll map the right structure, zone and budget for your business — with a written, all-in quote and no obligation.