E-Commerce License Dubai Cost: Complete Fee Breakdown for 2026

6 min read

Jan 6, 2026Jan 6, 2026

E-Commerce License Dubai Cost: Complete Fee Breakdown for 2026

Imagine turning a few clicks into a thriving online business, right in the heart of Dubai. The city isn’t just about skyscrapers and luxury malls anymore. It’s a digital goldmine, attracting millions of entrepreneurs every year. To start legally, every online business must consider the e-commerce license Dubai cost. The fees vary depending on your business setup, location, and chosen services.

Charges for Free Zone business licenses start at AED 5,750, while mainland setups with visas and office space can exceed AED 25,000. In 2024, the UAE e‑commerce market was valued at USD 8.8 billion and is expected to exceed USD 13.8 billion by 2029 with strong digital demand.

This guide breaks down all fees, shares real-world examples, and provides a step-by-step roadmap to set up your online business in Dubai legally and efficiently.

What is an E-Commerce License in Dubai? Key Advantages

An official permit that allows you to legally operate an online business, an E-Commerce license in Dubai authorizes you to sell products, offer services, and open business accounts. Without this license, conducting e-commerce activities in the UAE is not permitted. Platforms like Amazon UAE and Noon require businesses to hold a valid license before listing products or accepting payments.

Dubai offers two main setups:

1. Free Zone Business Setup

Ideal for freelancers and small online stores. You get 100% ownership, fast approvals, and minimal bureaucracy. Free Zones often provide virtual offices or flexi-desk options, keeping setup costs low.

For example, a freelance designer or a small online shop can obtain an e-commerce license in Dubai Freezone from RAKEZ, SHAMS, or DMCC. This allows legal operation without high upfront costs.

2. Mainland Business Setup

Best for businesses aiming to trade directly across the UAE. Mainland business setups in Dubai allow you to work with local companies, participate in government contracts, and sell across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

For example, a company selling electronics or fashion products to customers across Dubai and Abu Dhabi would need a mainland e-commerce license in Dubai.

Getting a Free Zone e-commerce license is fast, cost-efficient, and ideal for small online businesses. On the other hand, Mainland licenses open bigger markets and larger contracts. Choosing the wrong setup can limit operations and lead to compliance issues or penalties.

Benefits of Obtaining an E-Commerce License in Dubai

Getting an e-commerce license in Dubai comes with multiple benefits. It allows you to operate legally and build trust with customers.

Legal Operations: An e-commerce trade license makes your business fully compliant with UAE laws. You can sell products, offer services, and open business accounts without any risk. For example, a freelancer selling digital art can operate legally with an e-commerce license in the Dubai Freezone.
Access to Marketplaces: With a valid license, you can register on online marketplaces like Amazon UAE, Noon, and Carrefour Online. This gives your business access to millions of potential customers.
Business Bank Account: A licensed business can open a bank account. This helps you manage payments, receive online transfers, and build financial credibility.
Visa Eligibility: Certain licenses allow you to sponsor visas for yourself and your employees. This is ideal for businesses that are growing and need multiple team members.
Credibility and Trust: Customers and partners trust licensed businesses more. It signals professionalism and reliability. For example, an online store with a Free Zone license is often preferred by international clients.
Growth Opportunities: A proper license unlocks expansion. Mainland licenses allow trading across the UAE, while Free Zone licenses give access to international markets.

Secure your e-commerce license in Dubai stress-free with SafeLedger, and launch your online business in Dubai the smart and legal way.

E-Commerce License Dubai Cost — Zone‑Wise Comparison

Knowing the e-commerce license Dubai cost is the first step to planning your online business. Costs vary by setup, business type, and market access.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the cost of an e-commerce license in Dubai by zone and license type:

Zone / License Type	Who It’s For	What It Includes	Approx. Cost (AED)
Free Zone – Basic E‑Commerce	Solo freelancers, micro e‑stores	License, registration, basic support	~5,750+
Free Zone – Standard E‑Commerce	Small & medium online businesses	License, registration, PRO services	~7,500 – 10,000
Free Zone – Premium / Full Package	Growing online brands	License, visa quota, office options	~10,000 – 15,000
Mainland E‑Commerce License	Businesses selling to the local UAE market	License, trade registration, and local compliance	~10,000+ (varies)
Mainland with Office Requirement	Companies needing physical presence	License + office lease + local sponsor	~15,000 – 25,000+
Home‑Based or Virtual Office Free Zone	Freelancers & tiny startups	License + virtual office services	~5,750 – 7,000
Offshore E‑Commerce Setup	Export‑focused sellers (no UAE market access)	License + offshore benefits	~9,000 – 12,000

Note: The cost of an e-commerce license in Dubai depends on the Free Zone authority, Mainland requirements, visas, and added services. Free Zones are faster and cheaper for startups, while the Mainland suits businesses selling directly to UAE customers.

Get your e-commerce license in Dubai stress-free with SafeLedger. Choose the best option for your business, stay compliant, and start selling online confidently. Contact us today to launch your venture with ease and efficiency!

Components in an E-Commerce License Cost

The e-commerce license in Dubai fees includes multiple charges, not just the license cost. These vary by zone and business setup.

License Issuance Fee: Base cost charged by the Free Zone authority or DED.
Trade Name Reservation: Fee to approve and reserve your business name.
Business Activity Charges: Costs may increase if multiple e-commerce activities are added.
Office or Virtual Address: Flexi-desk or virtual office in Free Zones; Ejari-registered office for Mainland.
Visa Fees: Applies if your license includes investor or employee visas.
External Approvals: Extra charges for regulated activities like food or health products.
PRO & Government Fees: Document processing and compliance services.
Annual Renewal: License renewal cost is paid every year.

Knowing these components lets you estimate the e-commerce license Dubai cost accurately and prevents unexpected expenses.

If you want to start your online business in Dubai, you need a clear roadmap. Follow the steps to register your e-commerce company. Choose the right license and meet all legal requirements.

Learn more about the process here: How to Open an E-Commerce Business in Dubai.

Renewal & Annual Compliance Costs

Running an e-commerce business in Dubai involves annual renewal and compliance expenses. Planning these costs in advance helps you avoid penalties and ensures uninterrupted operations.

Cost Component	Details	Approx. Annual Cost (AED)
E-Commerce License Renewal	Renewal of Free Zone or DED mainland license	5,500 – 15,000
Business Address Renewal	Flexi-desk / virtual office (Free Zone)	2,000 – 5,000
Mainland Office (Ejari)	Physical office lease and Ejari renewal	8,000 – 20,000+
Visa Renewal (per visa)	Medical test + Emirates ID	3,500 – 6,000
VAT Compliance (if applicable)	VAT filing and return support	1,500 – 5,000
Accounting Services	Basic bookkeeping	2,000 – 6,000
Audit Fees (if required)	Mandatory for some Free Zones	3,000 – 7,000
PRO & Government Charges	Ongoing approvals and documentation	1,000 – 3,000

Planning for these recurring costs helps you manage the long-term e-commerce license Dubai cost and stay fully compliant.

SafeLedger has years of experience in e-commerce business setups in Dubai. We help entrepreneurs get the most affordable e-commerce license in Dubai quickly. Our team ensures a smooth, stress-free, and fully compliant process. Start your online business with confidence and ease with SafeLedger.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I sell on Amazon UAE or Noon with an e‑commerce license?

Yes, a valid e-commerce license in Dubai lets you register as a seller on Amazon UAE, Noon, Carrefour Online, and other marketplaces. Marketplaces require a legal business license before you can list products or accept payments. This applies whether you operate from a Free Zone or Mainland setup, though the Mainland gives broader local sales flexibility without needing a distributor.

2. Do I need a physical office to get an e‑commerce license in Dubai?

Free Zones often allow virtual offices or flexi‑desks, so you don’t need a physical space to apply for a license. Mainland e‑commerce setups typically require a tenancy agreement (Ejari) for an office or shared workspace, especially if you want local market access. Choosing a Free Zone setup can keep your initial Dubai e-commerce license cost lower and set up faster.

3. Can foreigners own 100% of an e‑commerce business in Dubai?

Yes, most Free Zone authorities allow 100% foreign ownership of your e‑commerce company without a local sponsor, making it ideal for international founders. Mainland rules have also evolved to allow full foreign ownership in many activities, depending on the legal structure and activity. Free Zone setups remain popular for e‑commerce because they offer low entry costs and full ownership transparency.

4. Is the DED e‑Trader license enough for e‑commerce?

The DED e‑Trader license is a low-cost option for UAE and GCC nationals who sell online. It allows social media and marketplace sales on a small scale. However, it does not provide visas or employ staff and is limited in scope. For broader e‑commerce activity, especially for non‑GCC nationals or larger operations, a Free Zone or Mainland e‑commerce license is recommended instead.

5. How soon can I get an e‑commerce license once I apply?

Once you submit all documents correctly, many Free Zones can issue your e‑commerce license in 3–5 business days. Some zones offer even faster digital issuance. Mainland approvals may take slightly longer due to office and Ejari checks, but the process remains efficient. Quick approval helps you launch your online store and start selling sooner.

6. Can I add e‑commerce activity to my existing mainland license?

Yes, if you already hold a Mainland commercial or trading license issued by the DED, you can add e-commerce activities to legally cover online sales. This allows you to sell through your website and online marketplaces without obtaining a separate Free Zone license. Ensure the added e-commerce activity code matches your existing business category to avoid delays or rejection.

7. Does a Free Zone e‑commerce license allow sales to UAE residents?

Free Zone e‑commerce licenses let you serve international customers and sell online globally. However, direct business‑to‑consumer (B2C) sales inside the UAE mainland may require additional approvals or a local distributor. If your main target is the UAE market, a Mainland license or dual licensing strategy may be better, even if your business is based in a Free Zone.

8. Do I need VAT registration with an e‑commerce license?

You must register for VAT in the UAE if your taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000 within 12 months. Once you have a valid e‑commerce license and start selling online, keep track of your revenue. If you cross this threshold, you must apply for VAT registration with the Federal Tax Authority and comply with reporting requirements.

9. Can I run a dropshipping business with a Dubai e‑commerce license?

Yes, Dropshipping still qualifies as e‑commerce activity, and a valid Dubai e‑commerce license allows you to sell products online without holding stock. Some Free Zones and Mainland setups are suitable for dropshipping operations. Ensure your license activity includes “online trading of goods” or similar wording to avoid compliance issues.

10. Does my employer’s permission affect getting an e‑commerce license?

If you are on a UAE employment visa, Free Zones usually don’t require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. Mainland applications sometimes ask for an NOC, depending on your visa type and Free Zone rules. Always check specific zone requirements before you apply to avoid delays.

11. Is an e-commerce license mandatory in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai law requires an e-commerce license for any online business selling products or services. Whether you sell through a website, mobile app, or online marketplace, you must hold a valid license. Operating without a license can lead to fines, platform bans, and payment gateway restrictions. A proper license also allows you to open bank accounts, register for VAT, and build customer trust legally.

12. Can I sell on Instagram or social media without a license in Dubai?

No, selling on Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, or TikTok without a license is illegal in Dubai. Social media selling still counts as commercial activity. You need a valid e-commerce license or, in limited cases, a DED e-Trader license (for eligible individuals). Platforms and payment gateways increasingly ask for license details, making compliance essential for uninterrupted online sales.

13. Can I open a business bank account with an e-commerce license?

Yes, once you receive your e-commerce license, you can apply for a UAE business bank account. Banks require your license, incorporation documents, passport copies, and business activity details. Having a licensed entity improves approval chances and allows you to accept online payments, manage transactions, and build financial credibility. Free Zone and Mainland companies are both eligible, subject to bank compliance checks.