Can I get an e-commerce license in Dubai without a visa?

Yes. IFZA and Meydan offer 0-visa starter packages for AED 12,900–13,500 that still let you run the online business.

Do I need a local partner for an e-commerce license?

No. Since 2021, 100 % foreign ownership is allowed for e-commerce activities on both mainland and free zones.

Is VAT registration mandatory for all e-commerce businesses?

Only if your annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000. Below that threshold it is optional but recommended for B2B credibility.

Can I sell on Amazon.ae with a free-zone license?

Yes, provided the license explicitly lists the activity “E-commerce” or “Online Trading”. You may still owe 5 % customs duty on imported stock.

How long does approval take in 2026?

Free-zone digital licenses are issued in 3–5 working days; mainland approvals via DET usually take 7–10 working days.

E-commerce License in Dubai Cost 2026

Tax forms, a pen, and a coffee mug on a dark desk

Quick Answer

An e-commerce license in Dubai costs AED 12,900–28,000 per year, depending on whether you choose mainland (via DED) or a free zone such as IFZA, DMCC or Meydan. The fee covers the trade license, Ejari tenancy, medical fitness, and Emirates ID. Expect an additional AED 2,000–4,000 in government fees and 5 % VAT on most services. Always verify current rates directly with the licensing authority.

Why Dubai Is the Gulf’s E-commerce Hub

Dubai handled over AED 50 billion in online sales in 2025, and the government expects 30 % growth by 2027. Low taxes, 100 % foreign ownership, world-class logistics and a young, digital-first population make the emirate the obvious choice for online sellers targeting the wider GCC and Africa.

License Types You Can Choose in 2026

1. Mainland License (DED + MOHRE)

Issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED). You can trade anywhere in the UAE and deal directly with government entities. Requires a physical office under Ejari tenancy contract.

2. Free-Zone License (IFZA, DMCC, Meydan, SPC)

100 % ownership, flexible visa packages, and lower rents. Restrictions apply when selling to mainland customers—you will need a distributor or 5 % customs duty on imports.

3. E-commerce Specific Packages

Many free zones now offer “E-commerce” or “Online Trading” activity codes that explicitly allow Amazon.ae, Noon, Shopify and social-commerce sales. These packages usually bundle a website approval letter and payment-gateway support.

Full Cost Breakdown for 2026

Free-Zone E-commerce License (Most Popular Route)

License fee: AED 12,900–15,000 (IFZA 0-visa starter package)
Flexi-desk or co-working: AED 4,500–7,500
Medical fitness + Emirates ID: AED 1,200–1,800
VAT registration (if turnover > AED 375k): AED 0 (free via FTA portal)
Annual renewal: same as above

Mainland E-commerce License (DED)

Commercial license fee: AED 15,000–20,000
Ejari tenancy (minimum 150 sq ft): AED 8,000–15,000
Municipality fees: AED 2,000–3,000
MOHRE establishment card: AED 550
Medical + Emirates ID per person: AED 1,200

Hidden or One-off Costs

Memorandum of Association notarisation: AED 1,000–2,000
Translation of documents into Arabic: AED 50–80 per page
Bank account opening deposit: AED 3,000–10,000 (varies by bank)
Payment gateway integration (Telr, Checkout, PayTabs): 1.9–2.9 % per transaction

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your E-commerce License

Choose activity: “E-commerce”, “Online Trading”, or “Distance Selling”.
Reserve unique trade name via DET portal or free-zone website (AED 200–600).
Submit documents: passport copies, photos, business plan (free zones), signed application.
Pay license fees online; receive digital license within 3–7 working days.
Sign Ejari tenancy or flexi-desk agreement (mandatory for mainland).
Book medical fitness test at any DHA-approved centre (AED 300–500).
Apply for Emirates ID and visa (if required) via GDRFA or free-zone immigration.
Open corporate bank account and register for VAT if projected turnover exceeds AED 375,000.

Common Mistakes Expats Make

Underestimating total first-year cost by forgetting Ejari or medical fees.
Picking a low-cost license that does not include the exact activity needed for Amazon.ae or Noon seller accounts.
Skipping VAT registration and later paying 5 % retroactive fines.
Assuming a free-zone license allows unlimited mainland retail—customs duty applies.
Using a residential address for Ejari; Dubai Land Department rejects it.

Free Zone Comparison Table 2026

Free Zone	0-Visa Starter	Renewal Fee	Best For
IFZA	AED 12,900	AED 12,900	Lowest entry cost
Meydan	AED 13,500	AED 13,500	Fast track, digital nomads
DMCC	AED 18,000	AED 18,000	Commodities & premium logistics
SPC	AED 14,000	AED 14,000	Creative & media activities

Tips to Reduce Your First-Year Spend

Start with a 0-visa or 1-visa package; add visas later when revenue justifies it.
Use free-zone flexi-desks instead of full office; saves AED 6,000–10,000.
Pre-agree share capital at AED 1,000 to avoid extra bank fees.
Bundle medical + Emirates ID appointments at centres inside the free zone.
Register for VAT early—late registration triggers penalties.

Key Takeaway

Budget AED 15,000–25,000 all-in for your first year if you pick a free-zone e-commerce package, or AED 28,000+ if you need a mainland footprint. The difference is mainly rent and the freedom to sell directly to government clients. Whichever route you choose, verify current fees on the official DET, IFZA or DMCC portals before you pay, because government charges can change mid-year.