Your UAE E-Commerce License: Sell Online in Days, Not Months
Starting an online business in the UAE? You need the right UAE-commerce license to stay legal and grow.
With Business Link, the process is quick, clear, and fully supported.
What Is a UAE E-Commerce License?
It’s the legal document that allows you to run an online business from the UAE. You can:
- Sell digital or physical products.
- Offer online services.
- Launch a subscription platform.
- Use dropshipping or affiliate models.
- Market and sell products using your website, Instagram, Amazon, or Noon platforms.
There are two main options:
Free Zone License
100% foreign ownership, quicker implementation, and lower costs.
Mainland License
Expanded opportunities for government contracts and wider reach within UAE markets.
Who Needs This License?
If you’re doing any of the following, you need a UAE e-commerce license:
- Selling products online from UAE or abroad.
- Dropshipping through AliExpress or other platforms.
- Offering online coaching, courses, or consultancy.
- Managing an online brand through social media.
- Freelancing via websites or apps targeting UAE clients.
What You Can Sell?
- Clothes, gadgets, and home goods.
- Digital products like e-books, templates, or design assets.
- Consulting services, coaching sessions, or online courses.
- Imported goods via a fulfillment service.
- Subscriptions or memberships.
- Affiliate or white-label products.
What You Get with a UAE-Commerce License?
Sell legally across the UAE and globally
Sell goods or services from your house or office.
No physical shop needed—save on rent.
Fast approval in as little as 5 business days.
Start with low costs and simple steps.
Choose from mainland or free zone options.
Sell using your website, social media channels, and mobile apps.
Accept global payments (PayPal, Stripe, etc.).
Open a local or international business account.
Add services like dropshipping or delivery.
Apply from anywhere—no UAE visit needed.
Easy yearly renewal and clear paperwork
Get VAT help and customs guidance.
Keep 100% ownership in many zones.
No local partner required in most cases
Office space is optional (virtual or shared).
Stay legal with UAE e-commerce rules.
Add partners or staff later—flexible license.
Scale your business anytime with new activities.
Get updates and alerts to avoid fines.
Use our partner network for delivery and tech.
Full support in English, Arabic, Hindi, or more.
Required Documents
Payment plans are available.
- Valid passport copy
- UAE residence visa or entry stamp
- UAE mobile number
- Trade name (we’ll check for availability)
- Short description of your business activity
- Emirates ID (if UAE resident)
- No objection letter (if employed under a visa).
License Types and Costs
| License Type | Cost (AED) | Office Needed | Ownership | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Zone Basic | 5,750 – 9,000 | Optional | 100% | 3–5 days |
| Free Zone Basic | 11,500 – 30,000+ | Often required | Up to 100% | 7–15 days |
- Renewal Costs: Typically start from AED 5,000 yearly
- Virtual Office Option: AED 2,999/year (no physical office rent)
- Visa Packages: Available as add-ons
Payment plans are available.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a UAE-Commerce License
1
Free consultation to review your idea
2
Pick a business structure (mainland or free zone)
3
Choose a name and check its availability
4
Submit documents online (passport, visa page, etc.)
5
Choose the right setup and activity (e.g., e-commerce trading, digital services)
6
Pay fees—all costs are shared clearly in advance
7
Receive your license by email or courier
8
Open a business bank account
9
Start selling online legally
What You Can Add Later
- UAE VAT registration
- Social media account support
- Domain name, hosting, and email setup
- Mobile app or website development
- UAE trademark registration
- Ongoing accounting and tax filing
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong activity selection (e.g., picking general trading for dropshipping)
- Missing renewal dates (late fees start from AED 1,000/day)
- Skipping VAT registration once you pass AED 375,000/year in revenue
- Opening the wrong license type for your target market
- Not associating payment gateway compliance with your license.
- Running ads before your license is approved
Why Work with Business Link UAE?
15+ years of helping businesses start online.
Registered with the UAE government authorities.
Full setup done remotely—no in-person visit required.
Personal help from real consultants, not automated bots.
Support in multiple languages (English, Arabic, and Hindi).
15+ years of helping businesses start online.
15+ years of helping businesses start online.
15+ years of helping businesses start online.
15+ years of helping businesses start online.
Let’s Set Up Your E-Commerce License
With us, you don’t need to guess. You get honest answers, fast help, and legal peace of mind. Whether you sell handmade items or digital services, we guide you from the first step to full start. Let’s make it happen.
Contact Business Link UAE now.
