What documents does a German national need to start a e-commerce business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Germany, attested documents via German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, and a business plan for your e-commerce venture.

How long does it take for a German citizen to set up a e-commerce company in Dubai DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a E-Commerce company in Dubai DED?

Most of the setup process for a e-commerce business in Dubai DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

What documents do I need to set up an E-Commerce business in Dubai DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

What are the annual renewal costs for an E-Commerce business in Dubai Mainland?

The annual licence renewal for an E-Commerce Dubai DED company costs approximately AED 12,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Is Dubai Mainland good for e-commerce start-ups?

Dubai DED is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering trade anywhere in the uae and government contracts eligibility. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 15,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

How long does it take to get a E-Commerce licence in Dubai DED?

The typical processing time for a e-commerce licence at Dubai DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

E-Commerce in Dubai Mainland for German nationals

MainlandCommercial

E-Commerce in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About E-Commerce

As a German national looking to establish an E-Commerce business in Dubai Mainland, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Germany has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of German professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a mainland entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your E-Commerce business will benefit from trade anywhere in the uae and government contracts eligibility. The Dubai DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your e-commerce setup in Dubai DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why Dubai DED for E-Commerce?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Mainland continues to attract e-commerce entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for e-commerce operations. Additionally, government contracts eligibility ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 8,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. No geographic restrictions further enhances the appeal of Dubai DED for e-commerce professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your e-commerce business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Dubai DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For German nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large German business community.

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Government contracts eligibility

No geographic restrictions

Wider business scope

Direct customer access

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your e-commerce licence is issued by Dubai DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for German Business Owners

German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. For your e-commerce business in Dubai DED, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving German business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Germany-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

German nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for e-commerce), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to Dubai DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	12,000
Visa Package (per visa)	4,500
Ejari Office	15,000
Co-Working	8,000
Private Office	30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 31,500

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your e-commerce business plan and the best Dubai DED licence options for German nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the e-commerce licence application to Dubai DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Dubai DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your e-commerce business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, German nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including e-commerce.

E-Commerce in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750