E-Trader License in Dubai
The E-Trader License was introduced in 2017 by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai to regulate businesses operating through online platforms. This license is crucial for individuals running home businesses or selling products/services digitally, especially via social media platforms.
The purpose of this initiative is to ensure that businesses operate legally and transparently in the UAE, reducing the risk of fraudulent or counterfeit products being sold online. The E-Trader license adds credibility to businesses, showing customers that products are legitimate.
About the E-Trader License
Eligibility:
Must be a UAE resident and at least 21 years old.
Emirate-specific rules apply (different regulations in each Emirate).
Only the license holder can operate under the license; hiring staff or opening physical stores is not permitted.
Business Activities: The E-Trader license is designed to cover a range of online business activities, including:
Graphic & Web Designing
Social Media Marketing & Blogging
IT Services & Software Designing
Typing & Translation Services
Film, TV & Radio Production
Jewelry Designing
Handcrafts
Event Planning & Filming
Cleaning Services
Project Management Services
Public Relations Management
Non-commercial Information Services
And more.
Must be a UAE resident and at least 21 years old.
Emirate-specific rules apply (different regulations in each Emirate).
Only the license holder can operate under the license; hiring staff or opening physical stores is not permitted.
Business Activities: The E-Trader license is designed to cover a range of online business activities, including:
Graphic & Web Designing
Social Media Marketing & Blogging
IT Services & Software Designing
Typing & Translation Services
Film, TV & Radio Production
Jewelry Designing
Handcrafts
Event Planning & Filming
Cleaning Services
Project Management Services
Public Relations Management
Non-commercial Information Services
And more.
How to Obtain an E-Trader License in Dubai
Applying for the E-Trader license is simple and efficient. Here's the process:
Create a Business Account:
Visit the DED’s Trader Website and create an account.
Add relevant business details, such as your personal information and the social media platforms you will use to conduct business.
Submit Required Documents:
Valid Emirates ID
Trade Name Approval Documents
Proof of Residence
Proof of Identity & Age
Payment Invoice
Pay for the License:
License fees are renewable annually.
Eligibility for Non-Nationals:
Initially available only to GCC and UAE nationals, but the license is now also available to expats residing in the UAE.
Create a Business Account:
Visit the DED’s Trader Website and create an account.
Add relevant business details, such as your personal information and the social media platforms you will use to conduct business.
Submit Required Documents:
Valid Emirates ID
Trade Name Approval Documents
Proof of Residence
Proof of Identity & Age
Payment Invoice
Pay for the License:
License fees are renewable annually.
Eligibility for Non-Nationals:
Initially available only to GCC and UAE nationals, but the license is now also available to expats residing in the UAE.
Benefits of an E-Trader License
Provides consultations to help you start your business.
Dubai Chamber Membership for commercial activities.
Bank facilities and assistance with customs procedures.
Ability to participate in exhibitions, conferences, and training workshops.
Temporary employment services and the option to employ up to three employees.
Workspace options available through Dubai Economy Partners.
Dubai Chamber Membership for commercial activities.
Bank facilities and assistance with customs procedures.
Ability to participate in exhibitions, conferences, and training workshops.
Temporary employment services and the option to employ up to three employees.
Workspace options available through Dubai Economy Partners.
Required Documentation for Branch Registration
To register a branch in Dubai or another UAE emirate, foreign companies must submit specific documents to secure the necessary permits. These documents confirm the parent company’s validity and operational scope, ensuring adherence to UAE standards. Required documents include:
Memorandum of Association (MoA): Outlines the company’s structure and objectives.
Certificate of Incorporation: Confirms the company’s registration in its home country.
Certificate of Good Standing: Validates the company’s legal status.
Board Resolution: Authorizes the branch setup and appoints a branch Manager.
Power of Attorney (PoA): Grants the appointed Manager authority to act on the company’s behalf in the UAE.
Additional documents may be requested depending on the specific business activities. Regulatory authorities may require more paperwork for industry-specific compliance.
Memorandum of Association (MoA): Outlines the company’s structure and objectives.
Certificate of Incorporation: Confirms the company’s registration in its home country.
Certificate of Good Standing: Validates the company’s legal status.
Board Resolution: Authorizes the branch setup and appoints a branch Manager.
Power of Attorney (PoA): Grants the appointed Manager authority to act on the company’s behalf in the UAE.
Additional documents may be requested depending on the specific business activities. Regulatory authorities may require more paperwork for industry-specific compliance.
Packages Chosen For You
Packages Offered by One Stop Solution
Basic Package
AED 2,999
Suitable for individuals with an existing residence visa.
Includes one-page website.
Access to the activities listed under the E-Trader License.
Suitable for individuals with an existing residence visa.
Includes one-page website.
Access to the activities listed under the E-Trader License.
Startup Package
AED 5,600
Includes access to the customer portal with over 150 services.
Covers registration fees, license fees, chamber of commerce certificate, name and security approval.
Includes access to the customer portal with over 150 services.
Covers registration fees, license fees, chamber of commerce certificate, name and security approval.
Co-working Package
AED 9,600
Includes one visa and co-working space access.
Visa status change and valid for 2 years.
Includes E-channel registration and refundable deposit fees.
Renewal fee: AED 1,100.
Additional Features:
Co-working spaces, 24/7 surveillance, free Wi-Fi, and more.
Includes one visa and co-working space access.
Visa status change and valid for 2 years.
Includes E-channel registration and refundable deposit fees.
Renewal fee: AED 1,100.
Additional Features:
Co-working spaces, 24/7 surveillance, free Wi-Fi, and more.
Full Package
AED 12,900
Ideal for new businesses in General Trading, E-commerce, and Consultancy.
Includes:
Business License
Visa (including medical, Emirates ID, and visa stamping)
Visa status change
Ideal for new businesses in General Trading, E-commerce, and Consultancy.
Includes:
Business License
Visa (including medical, Emirates ID, and visa stamping)
Visa status change
Summary of E-Trader License Benefits
Credibility: Gain legitimacy for your online business.
Flexibility: Operate from home or as a small business without the need for a physical store.
Support: Access to resources like the Dubai Chamber Membership and bank facilities.
Economic Participation: The license enables you to participate in exhibitions, events, and training.
Competitive Edge: Establish credibility with customers, ensuring they can trust the products and services you offer.
Flexibility: Operate from home or as a small business without the need for a physical store.
Support: Access to resources like the Dubai Chamber Membership and bank facilities.
Economic Participation: The license enables you to participate in exhibitions, events, and training.
Competitive Edge: Establish credibility with customers, ensuring they can trust the products and services you offer.