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E-commerce License in Dubai
Sell online legally in the UAE with an e-commerce licence that matches your products, platform and delivery model.
Selling online from Dubai
Online stores, marketplace sellers and social commerce businesses need a licence that covers electronic trading. Dubai offers e-commerce activities on the mainland as well as in several free zones, each with different rules on where goods can be stored and sold.
We look at what you sell, where your customers are and how you fulfil orders, and then recommend the licence and jurisdiction that fits.
At a glance
- Mainland and free zone options
- Covers online stores and marketplaces
- Payment gateway and bank requirements
- Warehousing rules depend on jurisdiction
- VAT registration may be required
What we handle
- Activity and jurisdiction advice
- E-commerce licence application
- Trade name reservation
- Office or flexi desk
- Visa processing
- Corporate bank account support
- Payment gateway documentation
- VAT registration
- Bookkeeping setup
- Renewals
Why set up with Emna Capital
01
One point of contact
A single advisor manages your file from the first call to the day your licence, visas and bank account are ready.
02
The right jurisdiction
We compare mainland, free zone and offshore options against your activity, clients and budget before you commit.
03
Paperwork done properly
Applications, attestations and translations are prepared and checked by our team to avoid rejections and delays.
04
Support after setup
Accounting, VAT, corporate tax, renewals and PRO work continue with the same team once you are trading.
How it works
Step 1
Free consultation
We discuss your activity, clients, visas and budget and recommend the right route.
Step 2
Documents and approvals
We prepare the application, collect signatures and obtain the required approvals.
Step 3
Licence issued
Fees are paid and the licence and corporate documents issued.
Step 4
Visas and banking
We process visas and support your corporate bank account application.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, marketplaces require a valid trade licence and VAT registration once you cross the threshold.
Not always. Many sellers use third party logistics. If you store goods yourself, the premises must be suitable for the activity.
Rules differ between zones. Some allow online sales to the UAE market with conditions. We check this for you.
VAT registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 in 12 months, and voluntary from AED 187,500.
Talk to an Emna Capital advisor
Tell us what you are planning and we will map out the route, the paperwork and the timeline. The first consultation is free.