How to Get an E-commerce License in Dubai: A 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Opening an online business in Dubai is an excellent idea in 2025. The city is blessed with opportunities, and more individuals are purchasing online than ever before. If you want to sell services or products online, you need something valuable—an e-commerce license Dubai. This license is a legal document that authorises you to do business safely and legally in the UAE. Without it, you may be fined or in legal trouble. But don’t worry! Obtaining this license is not difficult. It’s easier than you might believe.

First, you need to figure out where you will have your business. Second, you need to choose the type of license you need. Third, you go through a few simple steps. In this guide, we will inform you of everything clearly, so that you can start your online journey with confidence.

About E-commerce License Dubai

An e-commerce license Dubai is your legal permit to sell online. It can be services or products—you need this license to do business legally in the UAE. It’s a requirement for all platforms that carry on digital business.

This license helps in the protection of the buyers and the sellers. It also ensures compliance with UAE consumer law as well as tax rules. It is applicable through mainland or free zones, depending on your requirements.

It is essential to have this license if you’re looking for a Dubai e-commerce business setup. It provides you with the ability to trade both locally and globally.

Types of E-commerce License Dubai

There are multiple e-commerce licenses Dubai. Each is appropriate for different business needs. Here’s a summary:

1. E-Trader License

It is for UAE and GCC nationals who work in Dubai. It is appropriate for social media sellers and freelancers. However, expats cannot have this license unless there’s special permission.

2. Portal License

The Portal License allows you to establish a platform that facilitates buyers and sellers. It suits those operating service portals or online marketplaces. It permits foreign ownership.

3. Mainland E-commerce License

Dubai DED issues this license. It allows online trading all across the UAE and worldwide. It requires an office and is great for professional e-commerce businesses.

4. Free Zone E-commerce License

Ideal for worldwide online businesses. It provides 100% ownership and is offered in areas such as DSO, DAFZA, and CommerCity. But selling directly in the mainland might require a local agent.

5. Dubai CommerCity License

For those looking for full-scale e-commerce with warehousing and logistics. It includes warehousing and import-export benefits. It’s provided in Dubai CommerCity.

Documents Required for E-commerce License Dubai

Before applying for an e-commerce license Dubai, you will need to gather some important documents. These need to be approved. In the first place, prepare everything beforehand. Next, verify with the authority. Now, let us find out what you will require.

1. Passport Copies of All Shareholders

Firstly, submit clean copies of passports of all owners.  It facilitates rapid verification of nationality and identity.

2. A Business Name and Activity List

Second, choose a business name and state your activity. That is what your business will undertake.

3. Proof of Address (Such as Utility Bills)

Third, add a utility bill or lease document. It confirms your current home or office address.

4. Passport-Size Photos

Next, add passport-size photos of all the shareholders. They are for official documents and identification.

5. Trade Name Reservation (Where Required)

Reserve your trade name in some instances. It safeguards your business name prior to license approval occurring.

6. Emirates ID (If You are a Resident)

Lastly, UAE residents need to add their Emirates ID. It verifies residency and legal existence in Dubai.

These documents are required for Dubai e-commerce registration. Additionally, certain free zones might request additional forms or documents.

How to Get an E-commerce License in the UAE?

Getting an e-commerce license in Dubai may look difficult, but it is simple. You have to follow these steps how to get e-commerce license Dubai. First, decide on your business plan. Then, choose the correct place and license type. Lastly, complete your documents and start your application. We will proceed step by step.

Step 1: Choose Mainland or Free Zone

First, determine where you want to set up your business. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership. However, mainland licenses enable you to trade all over the UAE freely. So, choose what best suits your online purpose.

Step 2: Select Your Activity and Business Name

Then, choose the business activity. For instance, it may be dropshipping, online retailing, or selling digital services. Next, pick a name. However, ensure that it complies with UAE regulations and isn’t already in use.

Step 3: Submit Application

Now, get your documents ready and submit them to the appropriate authority. It is referred to as the e-commerce license application Dubai. Additionally, don’t miss paying the setup fee. Processing takes between 3 and 7 working days.

Step 4: Get Your License

Once your documents are cleared, you’ll get your license. Some free zones email it. Others send physical copies. So, inquire with your preferred zone for the detailed process and timeline.

Step 5: Open a Bank Account and Launch

Lastly, open your business bank account. You’ll use it to make payments and sell. Then, launch your website or app and go live online. And voilà, you’re ready.

These are the steps for e-commerce license Dubai 2025 made easy.

E-commerce License Cost in UAE

It’s crucial to plan your budget while venturing into an online business. An e-commerce license Dubai price relies on a couple of factors. For instance, license type, visa requirements, and office space. Let’s divide it.

1. Free Zone License: AED 5,750 to AED 15,000

First, free zones have flexible packages. Prices depend on services, visa quotas, and area. Yet, you attain 100% ownership and international market access, which makes it a worthwhile choice.

2. Mainland License: AED 6,500 to AED 10,000

Second, mainland licenses provide full UAE market access. Although office space is needed, you can sell throughout the country, which easily increases local business growth.

There can be additional fees for visas and offices. It’s advisable to consult business setup experts in Dubai for the precise cost.

Benefits of an E-commerce License in UAE

Having an online business in the UAE has numerous advantages. That’s why individuals in growing numbers are applying for an e-commerce permit Dubai 2025. Firstly, the procedure is easy. Secondly, the returns are large. Let’s discuss the best advantages one by one.

1. 100% Foreign Ownership (in Free Zones)

Firstly, free zones permit 100% foreign ownership. Therefore, you don’t require a local partner. Free Zone offers greater control, greater profit, and greater freedom to conduct your business the way you want it.

2. No Personal Income Tax

Secondly, the UAE does not have any personal income tax. You get to keep what you earn. This thing saves you more money and invests it back in your online store for quicker growth.

3. Growing Digital Economy

Besides, the UAE’s online market continues to expand. Increasing numbers of consumers shop online every year. Therefore, beginning today, there is more opportunity to prosper in a thriving e-commerce environment.

4. Secure and Reliable Legal Environment

Furthermore, the UAE has robust business legislation. It secures your online business and customers. It also increases confidence and maintains your business’s security every step of the way.

5. Access to Overseas Markets

And you’re not just restricted to selling in Dubai. You can access global buyers. Your small Dubai shop could easily become an international brand.

6. Simple Dubai Trade License process

Lastly, the procedure for obtaining a license is quick and easy. With professional assistance, you can do your Dubai trade license process in a few days.

The UAE also has quick approval, technology-ready infrastructure, and safe payment systems.

Cheapest E-commerce License in UAE

Suppose you’re starting small, saving money matters. Luckily, the UAE offers affordable license options. First, choose a zone that fits your budget. Then, explore these low-cost choices to begin.

1. SHAMS (Sharjah) – From AED 5,770

To begin with, SHAMS is perfect for startups and freelancers. It offers a low-cost entry and supports digital services and content-based businesses at affordable rates.

2. RAKEZ – From AED 6,010

Second, RAKEZ is outstanding for new businesses. It has attractive packages, easy-to-do procedures, and allows trading online at very competitive prices on various e-commerce activities.

3. Fujairah Creative City – Completion At an Estimated AED 6,500

Finally, this is the right place to find creative and online professionals. It is cheap, easy to enter, and not only is it ideal enough, but it is also befitting in terms of solo entrepreneurship, starting with little money.

These are suitable for startups. Otherwise, turn to the consultants for business setup in Dubai.

Which Free Zones Offer an E-commerce License?

The choice of the optimal free zone is important to your online firm. All of them possess different advantages and services. One is to start by planning your business goals. Then compare them with the characteristics of a zone. The next ones are the best to watch out for in 2025.

1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

First, DMCC is famous for its luxury goods and international trade. It is one of the best infrastructures that support e-commerce and its global connections.

2. Dubai CommerCity

Second, CommerCity was built so that it exclusively focuses on e-commerce. It offers complete services, including logistics, warehousing, and digital resources to scale.

3. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Also, DSO suits well to technology-based e-commerce. It offers smart office facilities, entrepreneurial support, and innovation hubs.

4. Dubai South

Subsequently, Dubai South is conveniently located near the airport. It is perfectly suitable for fast delivery, transportation, and online businesses that are ready to expand around the world.

5. Fujairah Creative City

Moreover, media and creative e-commerce can also be well located in this free zone. It has a low setup cost and is affordable for content-based businesses.

6. RAKEZ

After that, RAKEZ offers affordable packages. It is perfect in the case of smaller businesses, dropshipping orders, as well as for a person in need of a cheaper starting point.

7. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)

Finally, SHAMS works with digital merchants. It is so inexpensive and ideal for freelancers, influencers, and online service providers.

Each of them is beneficial. CommerCity is ideal as a place of logistics. SHAMS is low-priced. DMCC has a reputation for luxury goods.

Get Help from Us

The whole process of starting a business may be daunting at the start in Dubai. However, please do not feel overwhelmed, this is where we come in to help you at every stage. As the reliable business setup partners in the city of Dubai, we ensure that everything is stress-free with smooth sailing. First, we will guide you to make the right choice on an e-commerce license based on your needs. 

Subsequently, we will fill out all your paperwork and make sure you do not run out of something essential. We assist you in the opening of your business bank account and the visa for visiting. Finally, we support you until your business is fully prepared to start.

Most importantly, we make sure it is lawful and on time. Therefore, in case you require company formation in Dubai, we are ready to help you. We are going to make you successful online- together.

FAQs

Q1. What is the duration to get an e-commerce license in Dubai?

As a rule, between 3 and 10 working days. However, approvals in the mainland are sometimes obtained more quickly. Therefore, identify the plan, be swift, and go in.

Q2. Does my e-commerce business need a physical place of work?

Mainland licenses do need a physical office, yes. However, in the good news, flexi desks tend to be allowed in free zones. Therefore, choose appropriately, basing your decision on your business plan.

Q3. Is it possible to sell my products outside the UAE based on this license?

Yes, the majority of free zone licenses allow for selling in a global landscape. Moreover, it is a great option to drop-ship. Therefore, expand easily, get greater access to buyers, and upgrade.

Q4. Will expats be allowed to acquire an e-commerce license in Dubai?

Yes, it is possible with expats. However, only the UAE nationals or the GCC nationals are allowed to have e-trader licenses. Therefore, choose the right license and make sure you are eligible earlier.

Q5. What is the main distinction between e-trader and e-commerce licenses?

E-trader is only for social media traders. However, e-commerce allows the full operation of a business. Therefore, know your needs, compare, and then choose.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of everything related to getting an e-commerce license Dubai. From cost to process, documents to classifications – we covered it all.

For easy setup, get in touch with business setup consultants in Dubai. Need a free zone e-commerce license or a mainland license? UAE is ready to welcome your online venture. Want to start your web business? Let’s get it done in 2025.