E-commerce licence in Dubai and the UAE
To sell online in the UAE — on your own website, on social media or on marketplaces such as Amazon.ae and Noon — you need a licence that covers e-commerce. Which one fits depends on who you sell to and where your stock is kept.
| Licence | Emirate | Licence only | With 1+ visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajman NuVentures Centre (ANCFZ) | Ajman | AED 4,888 | AED 10,800 |
| SHAMS — Media licence | Sharjah | AED 5,760 | AED 13,175 |
| RAKEZ | Ras Al Khaimah | AED 6,000 | AED 12,000 |
| SHAMS — Standard licence | Sharjah | AED 6,885 | AED 14,300 |
| Masdar City Free Zone | Abu Dhabi | AED 7,000 | AED 16,200 |
Biznexa package prices in AED, including standard government fees. The final cost depends on your activity and the zone's current offers — we confirm one fixed number in writing before you pay.
Your options
- Free zone e-commerce licence — the most affordable full company option, with 100% ownership and visas. Suits online stores, dropshipping, digital products and selling across borders.
- Mainland e-commerce licence — licensed by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism. Best if you need a UAE warehouse or showroom, or sell heavily to UAE customers and government buyers.
- eTrader permit — a low-cost permit for selling through social media and websites from home. Eligibility is limited, so we check whether you qualify before you rely on it.
Selling on Amazon.ae and Noon
Marketplaces ask for a trade licence, a bank account in the company's name and, once you are registered, your VAT certificate. We set up the licence and bank account so you can open your seller account straight away.
Payments and VAT
- Payment gateways need a licensed company and a business bank account.
- VAT is 5%. Registration is required once taxable supplies pass AED 375,000 a year, and you may register voluntarily from AED 187,500. Our tax team handles registration and returns.
How setup works
- Tell us what you sell, to whom, and where stock is kept.
- We recommend a free zone or mainland licence and the right e-commerce activities.
- Licence, establishment card and visas.
- Bank account and payment gateway, then marketplace onboarding.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to sell on Instagram or my own website?
Yes. Selling online as a business in the UAE requires a licence or permit that covers e-commerce.
Can a free zone e-commerce company sell to customers in the UAE?
Online sales to UAE customers are possible with the right e-commerce activity. If you need a local warehouse or retail space, a mainland licence may suit better — we check your model.
Which licence do I need for Amazon.ae?
A UAE trade licence that covers your activity, plus a business bank account. We set both up.
How much does an e-commerce licence cost?
Free zone packages start from AED 4,888 with Biznexa. Mainland costs depend on the activity and office — we quote a fixed price.