Beginning an internet enterprise in Dubai seems intriguing. Many, nevertheless, fixate on one question: How much does it actually cost to obtain an Ecommerce License in Dubai and how is the process in 2025?
This manual will help you to avoid uncertainty if you are an European entrepreneur considering to grow in the UAE. We shall go step by step through the prices, permissions, and deadlines. You will understand exactly how to get your license by the end without any postponements.
Why Most Entrepreneurs Struggle With Licensing
Let’s start with a harsh truth. Many first-time business owners waste months and thousands of euros because they do not understand the rules for getting an Ecommerce License Dubai. Some apply with the wrong business activity. Others underestimate hidden fees. A few even get rejected because their documents are incomplete.
The good news? If you know the exact process and updated costs in 2025, getting your license is much faster and smoother.
The Real Cost of an Ecommerce License in Dubai (2025 Update)
The price of an Ecommerce License Dubai depends on several factors:
- The free zone or mainland authority you choose
- The number of visas you need
- Office or flexi-desk rental
- Government fees
Average Cost in Free Zones
In 2025, the cost of an ecommerce license in a Dubai free zone starts at AED 12,500 (about €3,100). This basic package usually covers:
- One-year trade license
- Company registration
- Flexi-desk or shared office
- One shareholder
Some free zones now offer “zero visa” packages for startups at a lower cost. But if you plan to hire staff or sponsor a family, you’ll need to pay for extra visas, which add around AED 3,000–5,000 (€750–€1,250) each.
Average Cost in Mainland Dubai
If you want to sell directly to the UAE market without restrictions, you may choose the mainland. A mainland Ecommerce License Dubai costs between AED 14,000–20,000 (€3,500–€5,000) in 2025. The higher cost comes from extra government approvals, local service agent fees, and office rental requirements.
Additional Costs to Remember
- Visa deposits: AED 3,000 (€750) per employee or dependent
- Medical test and Emirates ID: AED 1,200 (€300) per visa
- Corporate bank account: Free to open, but banks often require a minimum balance of AED 25,000 (€6,250)
When you add everything, most small businesses spend between AED 15,000–25,000 (€3,750–€6,250) to fully set up their ecommerce company in Dubai in 2025.
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Ecommerce License
Now let’s go through the process in simple steps.
Step 1: Choose Mainland or Free Zone
This is the first big decision. Free zones are cheaper and faster. Mainland gives more flexibility for trading across the UAE.
Step 2: Pick Your Business Activity
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or the selected free zone will require your business activity. You have to select the appropriate activity code if you’re selling gadgets, digital products, or garments. Choosing the incorrect one might cause your application to be delayed.
Step 3: Reserve Your Company Name
Dubai requires every company to have a registered trade name. It must be unique and cannot include offensive words. Name reservation usually costs AED 600 (€150).
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
You submit your application with your passport copy, visa page, and business plan. This approval shows that the government has no objection to your business.
Step 5: Office or Flexi-Desk Rental
For free zone companies, a flexi-desk is enough. In mainland Dubai, you need a physical office. Rents start from AED 8,000 (€2,000) yearly.
Step 6: Pay Fees and Collect License
Once you pay the required fees, you will receive your Ecommerce License Dubai. This usually takes 5 to 7 working days in a free zone and 10 to 14 days on the mainland.
Step 7: Apply for Visas and Bank Account
The final step is to apply for visas for yourself, staff, or family members. Then, open a corporate bank account to start trading.
Timeline: How Fast Can You Get Approved?
In 2025, Dubai authorities have made the licensing process faster. On average:
- Free zone approval: 5–7 working days
- Mainland approval: 10–14 working days
- Visa stamping and Emirates ID: 7–10 working days
So if your documents are correct, you can start operating your online store in Dubai in 3 weeks or less.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring visa costs: Many entrepreneurs only look at license fees and forget about visas.
- Choosing the wrong free zone: Some free zones don’t allow certain online activities.
- Bank account delays: European entrepreneurs often face strict compliance checks. Working with a consultant can speed this up.
- Incomplete documents: Missing passport copies or signatures cause the most rejections.
Why Dubai Is Worth the Investment
Dubai is not the cheapest place to set up an online business. But it offers what many European countries do not:
- 0% personal income tax
- 5% VAT only
- Strategic hub between Europe, Asia, and Africa
- Great logistics including easy access to important airports and ports
According to UAE government statistics, more than 30,000 new e-commerce enterprises are predicted to register in Dubai alone by 2025.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the expenses and procedures ahead will make getting an Ecommerce License Dubai in 2025 easy. For a complete configuration, anticipate to pay AED 15,000–25,000 (3,750–€6,250). While the mainland gives more freedom, free zones are faster and less expensive.
Working with an experienced expert like Neo Vision Corporate makes the process easier if you want to save time and prevent errors. We enable European entrepreneurs to get their licenses approved quickly without hidden expenses or needless delays.
Therefore, the actual issue is: Do you prefer to waste months resolving this on your own or begin selling online in Dubai in a few weeks?
