As the technological landscape changes, it has become increasingly easier to set up an online business. If you’re thinking about starting an online business, then Dubai is one of the best places for up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Whether you want to sell a product or a service online you’ll need to get an e-commerce license and the right visa based on your business activities. One of the advantages of having an online business is that you don’t have to rent office space, you can run your online business virtually from the comfort of your home. You can also opt for a shared workspace. Dubai has some of the most amazing shared workspaces for you to choose from.
Here is an outline of the process to set up your online business.
- Choose your online business activity: Are you selling a product or providing a service?
- Select and book your Business Trading Name: You need 3 variations
- Buy your website domain name and set up your social media accounts: You can buy you domain from GoDaddy; NameCheap or Domain.com
- Decide if you want to trade in a Free Zone or Mainland: Free Zones are more cost effective
- Decide if you want a physical or virtual office: A virtual office keeps your costs low
- Apply for an Ecommerce Business License and Visa (be very specific on the type of activities
- Open a Corporate Bank Account
- Design your brand identity: You can use Canva
- Build and host your website: Use WordPress to you build and use Hostinger or BlueHost to host
- Create content for your website: Use copy.ai
- Source images for your website: Use Pexels and Pixabay
- Market your business: LinkedIn; FaceBook; Instagram; TikTok; Pinterest; Google
Mainland vs Free Zone
Businesses operating on the mainland can operate across the UAE and international markets but cannot be registered as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). You can trade directly with the UAE market without having to use a local agent. You are also able to work on Government contracts. Another advantage is that there is no limit on the number of employee visas that you can get but this is based on the size of your office.
Businesses operating in the Free Zones can set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC). They have no customer duties or taxes for trading within the Free Zones.
How to Apply for your Visa and Business License
You can apply directly with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or you can work with one of the many companies that can help you with this process. I highly recommend FreelancerVisa.com, they offer great service; they will process all your documentation for your visa and your business license.
Documents Needed for an eCommerce License
- Application Form
- Passport copies
- Passport photos
- Emirates ID
- Trade Name Certificate
- Memorandum of Articles of Association
- Proof of Address
- Attested Academic Certificates