Sell online legally in Dubai — the DED eTrader license
Sell online. Legally.
The eTrader license is a DED-issued permit for individuals to sell products and services through social media and digital platforms. No office required, no physical shop needed.
The DED eTrader license is currently available to UAE nationals, GCC citizens residing in Dubai, and UAE residents holding a valid UAE residency visa. Expatriates without UAE residency cannot apply. If you are an expatriate without UAE residency, a Mainland or Freezone license is the correct route — we will guide you.
Prices include VAT 5% where applicable
3–5 working daysWho can get the eTrader license
- UAE nationals (Emirati citizens)
- GCC nationals residing in Dubai with a valid UAE residency visa
- UAE residents (expatriates) holding a valid UAE residency visa
- Applicant must be 21 years old or above
- One eTrader license per individual — you cannot hold multiple eTrader licenses
Permitted activities under the eTrader license
The eTrader license covers a specific list of activities approved by DED (Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism). Most retail, handmade goods, digital services, and personal training activities are permitted.
- Handmade crafts, art, and home goods
- Clothing, accessories, and personal care products
- Food preparation and home baking (subject to food safety permits)
- Digital content, design, and online coaching
- Pet care products and accessories
- Plants, flowers, and home decor
- Services requiring a professional license (e.g. legal, medical, engineering)
- Activities requiring a Mainland or Freezone company (e.g. importing goods for wholesale)
- Operating a physical retail shop or office
- Hiring employees (eTrader is for solo operators only)
How the eTrader license works
We collect your Emirates ID, mobile number, and intended activity. All done online — no need to visit DED.
We confirm your activity is on the approved DED eTrader list and submit your application.
DED issues the eTrader license digitally. Typical timeline: 3–5 working days. We send you the digital license certificate.
Your license covers sales via Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, and your own website. Annual renewal applies.
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Not a UAE national or resident — here is what to do
The eTrader license requires UAE residency or UAE national status. If you are an expatriate without a UAE residency visa, the right path is either a Dubai Mainland Professional License or a Freezone license. Both give you 100% foreign ownership and the right to operate a business legally in the UAE.
Trading in days.
Name reservation, initial approval, license issue and a bank introduction — sequenced so nothing waits on anything it did not have to.
Common questions about the eTrader license
No. The eTrader license is specifically designed for home-based and online sellers. There is no requirement for a physical office, shop, or Ejari. Your home address or Emirates ID address is sufficient.
No. The eTrader license is for individual sole traders only. You cannot sponsor employment visas or hire staff under this license. If you need to hire, you must upgrade to a Mainland or Freezone company.
Some UAE banks accept eTrader licenses for business accounts, but acceptance varies. Most eTrader holders use personal bank accounts for their sales. We will advise on banking options during the process.
An eTrader license renewal is AED 2,299, and cancellation is AED 1,199 if you ever need it. Both are published prices, not estimates — you pay what the page says.
Yes, subject to obtaining a separate food safety permit from Dubai Municipality before selling food. The eTrader license alone does not authorise food sales — the municipality permit is a separate requirement. We can guide you through both.
Ready when you are.
Ready to sell online legally in Dubai
Tell us your activity and we will confirm eligibility and get your eTrader license in 3–5 working days.