Why set up an e-commerce company in Dubai?
The UAE combines high online-shopping adoption, excellent logistics, and dedicated e-commerce licences. With the right licence and banking in place, you can sell across the UAE and the region, onboard with payment gateways and marketplaces, and sponsor your team, all on a compliant footing.
A digital-first market. The UAE has high e-commerce penetration, strong logistics, and a customer base comfortable with online purchasing.
Dedicated e-commerce licences. Several free zones and the mainland offer e-commerce and trading licences built for online retail and digital trade.
100% foreign ownership. E-commerce activities can typically be owned outright by foreign founders, in a free zone or on the mainland.
Mainland market access. A mainland licence lets you sell and deliver directly across the UAE without a local distributor.
Payment gateway eligibility. A proper licence and corporate bank account are the basis for onboarding with UAE payment gateways and marketplaces.
Visas and scale. Your licence supports residence visas for founders and staff and a structure that scales as the business grows.
E-commerce models we license
Whatever your online model, we map it to the correct trading or e-commerce activity:
Online Retail (B2C)
Selling physical or digital products directly to consumers through your own store or app.
Marketplace & Platform
Operating a platform that connects third-party sellers and buyers.
Dropshipping
Selling online while a supplier fulfils orders, structured with the correct trading activity.
B2B & Wholesale Trade
Online wholesale and distribution, often paired with a general trading activity.
Digital Products & Services
Selling software, subscriptions, courses, or other digital goods.
Social Commerce
Selling through social channels, with a licence that keeps the activity compliant.
Note: Costs are indicative and may change with your requirements and regulations. Contact us for a tailored quote.