Compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which modified consumer behavior and propelled populations online, the UAE eCommerce market is thriving. According to statistics, global eCommerce sales crossed over US$ 5.2 trillion, and the UAE alone contributed to 18% of the worldwide growth rate. Research highlights that UAE e-commerce market is expected to reach a staggering $9.2bn by 2026. Trusted leader in digital payments, Visa, alone processes 29 million transactions per day, which translates to over 300 transaction per second!
There is a surge in demand for Dubai eCommerce Licenses in the region as they enable competitive business owners like you to sell goods through your websites or a portal.
Here’s everything you need to know about acquiring an eCommerce license in the UAE:
Why Do You Need an eCommerce License?
If you’re looking to set up a business in a Dubai Free Zone, applying for a Business License is a primary requirement. This license provides a legal identification to your company and validates the business, allowing you to operate within the jurisdiction. A valid business license is a key requirement of opening a corporate bank account in the UAE. This will ensure secure and convenient financial transactions both locally and internationally.
Why Should You Set up an eCommerce Business in a Dubai Free Zone?
Dubai’s strategic geographic location, global reputation, robust infrastructure, and excellent government support has made it an attractive place to conduct business around the world. Along with this, Dubai Free Zone also offers the following benefits:
- 100% ownership of commercial enterprises
- 100% repatriation of capital and profit
- Tax-free import and export of goods in and out of the Free Zone
- Low tax environment
- Incorporation of FZCOs or the registration of branch offices
- No paid-up share capital requirement
How Can You Obtain a Dubai eCommerce License?
When obtaining a Free Zone license it is important to go with trusted experts to assist you through the process. Luckily, our global network of Professional Partners at IFZA has you covered.
To obtain an eCommerce License in Dubai, follow the below steps:
- Submit your application with completed UBO details and supporting documents
- Obtain license approval, including any third-party approvals, if required
- Issuance of Business License
- Continuing support, including UAE Residence Visa application, office spaces for rent, and others
For trade with the mainland as a Free Zone company, it is important for you to partner with a third-party logistics provider.
What Are the Required Documents?
IFZA has streamlined the process and requirements to open an eCommerce company in Dubai.
In the case that you would like to set up an eCommerce company with individual shareholders, you will need to submit the following:
- Passport copy
- Digital passport photo
- Application Form with UBO information (provided by IFZA)
- Emirates ID and Visa Copy for UAE residents
If you would like to set up an eCommerce company with corporate shareholders, the following documents are required:
- Passport copy of every shareholder and General Manager of the corporate shareholder
- Digital passport photo of every shareholder and General Manager of the corporate shareholder
- Application Form with UBO information (provided by IFZA)
- Emirates ID and Visa Copy of a shareholder who is a UAE resident
- Board Resolution
- Memorandum & Articles of Association of the corporate shareholder (or its equivalent)
- Valid Trade License (or its equivalent)
- Certificate of Incorporation or Formation of the corporate shareholder
- Additional documents may be required (inquire with PP).
Launch Your eCommerce business with the Professionals at IFZA
IFZA is a renowned name in the region and is popular for its simple and efficient processes. Our international network of Professional Partners can ensure easy navigation at every step of your IFZA License application. We value your time so you can expect a smooth company formation process without being physically present in the UAE.
You can enjoy the freedom to choose from thousands of business activities, even combining Commercial and Professional activities under a single license.
Post company formation in the UAE, the IFZA Free Zone ecosystem will continue to assist your business through its growing range of products and services that include corporate bank account opening support, medical insurance coverage, and others. Our Professional Partners also receive comprehensive training and can, at any time, take advantage of the IFZA Academy’s micro-learning opportunities centered on critical business skills such as customer service, sales, communication, and government regulations.
What are you waiting for? Success is just a call away! Contact an IFZA Professional Partner or contact us through the form