The market for e-commerce business licensing Dubai is among the fastest-growing in the Middle East. This is driven by a high internet penetration, global trade links, and a government-backed digital infrastructure. Recent reports show the e-commerce market in the UAE currently stands at USD 11.05 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 20.54 billion by 2030. In the UAE, Dubai has experienced significant growth, having the most developed digital marketplace in the region due to its digital framework, expanding mobile-wallet usage, and incentives targeted at international businesses. Mobile-first behaviour, rising disposable income, and social-commerce adoption also strengthen conversions, while regulations and advanced logistics sustain cross-border fulfilment.
So, when it comes to starting an online business in Dubai, it begins with selecting your business activity, obtaining an e-commerce business license in Dubai, and ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. Dubai South Business Hub is a free zone that enables this through a 100% digital setup platform, allowing entrepreneurs to apply, get verified, and receive their trade license the same day, regardless of location.
For entrepreneurs living abroad, UAE makes it possible to operate remotely, open a bank account, and manage all compliance requirements online with an e-commerce license without residency. By using our cost calculator, you can estimate the cost of setting up an e-commerce business and begin your business setup.
Have a business idea?
Select from retail, wholesale, marketplace, or service-based categories. Your choice determines the permitted products or services you can offer.
Fill out the online form, upload the required documents, and access professional support to ensure compliance with the free zone’s regulations.
Get a quick, secure ID verification with same-day processing to speed up your business registration process.
Your e-commerce trade license UAE can be issued within the same day, with all the official documents available in the Dubai South Business Hub digital portal.
The Dubai e-commerce license cost at Dubai South Business Hub starts from AED 12,500.
You get access to a suite of value-added services that include corporate bank account setup, VAT registration, Emirates ID issuance, and flexible workspace solutions. Costs vary based on service selection.
The Dubai South Business Hub cost calculator allows both local and overseas founders to simulate the total business setup costs in order to prepare a proper budget.
With an e-commerce license without residency UAE, you can operate your business remotely while maintaining a legal standing of its presence.
During setup, you can choose the number of visas required, with up to 6 allocated. Dependant visa assistance is also available for family relocation into the UAE.
Concierge support includes corporate banking introductions, Emirates ID processing, and VAT and Corporate Tax registrations support.
Within your license activity, you can sell products online legally in UAE, such as consumer goods, electronics, fashion, and approved services.
Comply with VAT regulations, labelling standards, and age restrictions for certain goods such as alcohol or health-related products.
Dubai South Business Hub is a free zone located just 10 minutes from Al Maktoum International Airport, with the Dubai Metro Blue line and Etihad Rail enhancing its future connectivity in the region.
The free zone provides a complete paperless workflow with real-time support, and live chat assistance makes online business setup Dubai free zone processes more efficient.
Beyond licensing, the Dubai South Business Hub offers a suite of value-added services when you seek scalable options. This includes banking assistance, corporate tax and VAT registration services, and accounting services. In addition to these services, Dubai South Business Hub provides mentoring and collaborative networking opportunities through its integrated ecosystem.
Ready to begin?
Dubai’s position as a leading e-commerce hub is supported by a business landscape designed for speed, following compliance, and creating a growth-enabled environment. Dubai South Business Hub is a free zone that offers more than licensing; it delivers a complete integrated platform for founders, whether they operate locally in the UAE or from abroad. The combination of a strategic location within Dubai South’s master-planned city, cost transparency and a digital-first process, enables entrepreneurs to launch with complete confidence, and manage their business in an environment that nurtures growth for the long term.
An e-commerce license starts from AED 12,500 at Dubai South Business Hub.
Yes, it is possible to get an e-commerce license without residency in the UAE.
With your license and selected activities, you can sell any approved products or services that are listed.
You can get your e-commerce license within the same day once your documents have been submitted and approved, and your ID verification is complete.
You can open an online business in Dubai from anywhere in the world. If you choose to move to Dubai to manage your operations, you will have access to visa packages.
Yes, if the business activity you choose is approved under your license.
No, with Dubai South Business Hub, you are permitted to conduct and manage your business operations virtually.
To complete your application form, you will need a passport copy, and proof of address.
Yes, Dubai South Business Hub is a free zone that supports licensing, and setting up e-commerce businesses.
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