Selling online in the UAE needs the right licence. Here is what an e-commerce licence costs, which jurisdiction fits, and how to get set up to accept payments.
E-commerce is one of the fastest-growing business categories in the UAE, and getting licensed properly is what lets you open a payment gateway, sign with marketplaces, and operate legally. Here is how to start. What an e-commerce licence covers An e-commerce licence permits selling products or services online — through your own website, social media, or marketplaces like Amazon and Noon. It is the foundation that lets you open a corporate bank account and integrate payment gateways like Stripe, Telr or Network. Free zone or mainland for online selling? For most online sellers, a free zone licence is ideal — cheaper, 100% ownership, and perfectly suited to selling internationally or through marketplaces. If you plan to hold stock in a UAE warehouse and sell directly to UAE consumers with your own delivery, mainland may fit better. The "where are your customers and stock" question decides it. What it costs A RAKEZ e-commerce licence starts from AED 3,500 for zero visas, scaling with your visa needs. That is genuinely one of the most affordable routes to a legitimate online business in the region. Payment gateways Once licensed with a corporate bank account, you can apply for a payment gateway. This is the step that turns your licence into a working store. Some gateways favour certain licence types and banks, so getting the setup right upfront saves friction later. Ready to launch your online store? We handle licence, banking and gateway setup. Talk to us.