How to Start Your E-commerce Business in Dubai

The mode of a business transaction is quickly changing as technology advances. Many organizations and corporations are quickly adapting these technological advancements and setting up their businesses online. These days, clients are doing their research and making their orders online. It is no wonder then that the e-commerce industry is the fastest-growing of all business sectors in the world. The beauty of it is that it has largely expanded the market by getting rid of geographical boundaries. You can now conduct a business transaction with basically anyone anywhere in the world as long as they have access to the internet. Setting up an e-commerce business in Dubai is quite easy. Here is how to do it.

Get a Dubai e-commerce License

The first requirement is applying for an e-commerce license to the Department of Economic Development (DED). You can do this application online in about an hour. After completing the registration, you then apply for your license directly without the need to visit their physical offices. Send the necessary documents online and then wait for them to process your application. You will pay a small fee for this application. Ensure that you choose a free zone to enjoy the maximum benefits of your business.

Register a Physical Office

Much as you will be running an online entity, you will need to at least have a physical office. Dubai has some of the best office spaces in the world, so this should not be a problem. Get a local sponsor to assist you in leasing or buying a viable office space. In most cases, foreigners are restricted from buying these spaces hence the need for a local sponsor. You should not worry about this since you can always lease the spaces and carry out your businesses.

Website Development

Developing a website in Dubai follows the same criteria as anywhere else in the world. You need to get and register a domain name which can be your business name. You can choose a name from the numerous available online. There are a lot of companies in the emirates offering domain name registration services, so this should not be a challenge. Once you have your website up and running, link it up to online payment gateways like credit cards and other online payment services.

Import and Export Requirements

You will need to register your business with the relevant customs and ports departments to import or export goods from Dubai. The departments will issue an importer’s code that will allow you to bring goods to the region. The relevant authorities require you to pay a 5% customs duty for all the goods you import into Dubai. If you are within the free zone area, and are selling your goods within that area or outside Dubai, then you will be exempt from that duty. However, if selling within the Emirates and outside the free zone, then you will have to pay the duty and have a local agent. It s important that you understand these jurisdictions to avoid getting into trouble with the authorities.