E-commerce has become quite popular in Dubai with most of the population choosing to buy products online. By the end of 2018, online shopping is expected to grow by 21.5%, as the number of startup in the IT sector is also expanding. Moreover, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating as shops in Dubai are encouraged to create online presences in order to increase their profits.
Foreign investors who want to start a shop in Dubai can try and create an online version also apart from the physical one. Our company formation agents in Dubai can assist with the registration procedure of an online store.
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Requirements to set up an online store in Dubai
Up to this point, there are no specific requirements to create an online shop in Dubai. Foreign entrepreneurs can create companies on the mainland of Dubai or one of the free zones where they can sell various types of products or services. One thing must not be forgotten: the company registration procedure must be completed with the Dubai Department of Economic Development.
Following that, the online shop owner must create a website and register a domain name in Dubai. It is useful to know that the Dubai government is currently working on a legal framework that will enable the creation of the first e-commerce hub in the emirate: Matajircom.
Our company incorporation consultants in Dubai can offer information on the current legislation governing the e-commerce.
Licenses related to opening an online shop in Dubai
There are several aspects to be considered when starting a Dubai online shop. The first one is the licensing phase. One will need a trading license which must be obtained once the company is registered. Then specific licenses must be obtained. These depend on the products or services which will be sold.
Another aspect to take into account is offering a secure payment gateway to the clients. A merchant account is one of the most suitable options in the case of online stores in Dubai.
If the products to be sold in the shop are imported or are destined for export, specific licenses and requirements must be taken into consideration.
For full information or assistance in opening an online shop, please contact our Dubai company formation advisors.