Online business license Dubai: Costs and requirements

Research shows that businesses with an online presence perform better than those without. All they require is a good laptop, relevant software and a high-speed internet connection, and they can offer their services to anyone, anywhere in the world.

If you are thinking about getting an online business license in Dubai, you’ve already started down the road to success. Dubai has one of the best internet penetration rates globally and boasts one of the world’s largest B2C eCommerce markets. More than 60% of GCC online shoppers reside in Dubai, making it the GCC eCommerce leader.

Setting up an e-commerce license in Dubai can be quick and simple if you have the right guidance. Here’s everything you need to know about the costs and requirements for obtaining an online business license in Dubai.

In this article, we will cover the following topics:

Benefits of an online business license in Dubai

The following are some of the significant advantages of acquiring an online business license in Dubai:

• Minimal capital investment
• Low operating cost
• 100% foreign qwnership
• Overcome geographical limitations
• Secure and modern banking system

Steps to obtain an online business license in Dubai

Company formation in Dubai can be complicated, but if you follow a simple step-by-step process, it can be much easier than you think. Working with Creative Zone will make obtaining your online business license effortless and simplify the process into five easy steps.

Step 1: Select a name for your company
The first step is naming your organization. The UAE is strict regarding company names, so be mindful of the rules. You must avoid offensive or blasphemous language and names already owned by well-known organisations.

Step 2: Decide on a free zone or mainland license
You can get your business license either from a free zone or the mainland. While a free zone company cannot trade with the local UAE market, it does enjoy 100% business profit repatriation, no corporate tax, 100% business ownership, and no customs fees. If you decide to set up a business on the mainland, you can cater to international and local markets.

Step 3: Apply for an e-commerce license
After choosing a suitable location, you must apply for an e-commerce license in Dubai. If you have selected a mainland license, you need to apply to the Department of Economic Development (DED), the licensing authority for e-commerce. If you wish to start a business in a free zone, you may directly apply to the free zone of your choice.

Step 4: Apply for your visa
Once your license application is approved, you can apply for a UAE visa. You can also apply for your staff and family members along with your visa application.

Step 5: Open your bank account
After successfully getting your license, the first thing you should do is open a bank account. You cannot start operating in the UAE without having a business bank account.

Documents required for an online business license

The Department of Economic Development requires specific documentation and basic details to get your business online. You will have to provide the following documentation:

• The investor’s passport copy
• Passport copy of the local sponsor (if any)
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you or any other shareholder is working in a UAE company
• A copy of your Emirates ID
• The application form of registration from DED
• An attested tenancy contract for the office premises (if any)
• An attested Memorandum of Association from public notary

It’s worth getting in touch with one of the business setup managers at Creative Zone if you have any doubts. They can direct you through the detailed requirements and help you ensure your paperwork is entirely mistake free.

Online business license cost Dubai

The cost of an online business license in Dubai will depend on various factors such as the size of the business, the number of visas applied for, office space, and whether the company is to be in a free zone or on the mainland. In terms of costs, you should anticipate paying anywhere from AED 5,500 to AED 30,000, depending on your requirements. Registering in a free zone is the most popular, cost-effective way option.

To find out the exact price, contact one of the business setup managers at Creative Zone. They can give you the most up-to-date pricing based on what you need.

Frequently asked questions:

Do I need a business license to sell online in Dubai?

Yes, companies wishing to conduct business online or otherwise in Dubai must get a business license from the Department of Economic Development.

Can I do online business in the UAE?
The e-commerce market in the UAE is estimated to be worth more than $10 billion. Launching an online business is simple. You only need a business license, an internet connection, and things that people wish to buy to start your own company

Do I need a business license for an online store in the UAE?
Yes, you do need a business license for an online store. It is illegal to conduct business without a permit, and if caught, you can face fines up to AED 500,000.

What business license do I need to sell online in the UAE?
You require an e-commerce license if you plan to sell your services or products online in the UAE.

Working with creative zone

Now is the time to get your online business license. While setting up an online business in Dubai appears simple enough, it requires qualified and expert professionals to handle all government-related work. They ensure a smooth setup of your new business.

Creative Zone is UAE’s oldest and most trusted business setup expert in the region. We have assisted over 44,000 entrepreneurs in successfully establishing their businesses since our inception in 2010. We specialise in delivering solutions that best fit your needs when starting a business by providing quick, dependable, hassle-free, and experienced assistance.

Assisting your business setup in Dubai is only the first step. We also offer assistances ranging from tax preparations, legal counsel, HR services, and more.

The benefits don’t end there. When you become a client of Creative Zone, through our networking tool, CZ Connect, every client gets access to a thriving community of fellow entrepreneurs. This allows you to interact, network, and develop significant relationships with the region’s larger business community.

Take advantage of our free consultations today and get unbiased advice on UAE business formation, with the sole goal of finding the best possible fit for your needs.