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

You will need a valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Lebanon, attested documents via Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your e-commerce venture.

How long does it take for a Lebanese citizen to set up a e-commerce company in JAFZA Offshore?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

What are the tax implications for an E-Commerce business in JAFZA Offshore?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Offshore entities are generally exempt from UAE corporate tax on income earned outside the UAE. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my JAFZA Offshore licence?

Your JAFZA Offshore licence can include e-commerce as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my JAFZA Offshore E-Commerce licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from JAFZA Offshore, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Offshore companies can open corporate accounts, though the choice of banks may be more limited. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Is JAFZA Offshore good for e-commerce start-ups?

JAFZA Offshore is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering zero tax on all income and full capital repatriation.

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

Most of the setup process for a e-commerce business in JAFZA Offshore can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. Offshore company registration can typically be completed entirely remotely without any UAE visit.

OffshoreCommercial

E-Commerce in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About E-Commerce

Setting up an E-Commerce business in JAFZA Offshore as a Lebanese citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Lebanon-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Lebanese business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at JAFZA Offshore has been streamlined significantly, with most commercial licences processed within 5 business days. As an offshore entity, you benefit from maximum privacy and asset protection. The base licence fee is approximately AED 18,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your e-commerce business in JAFZA Offshore. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why JAFZA Offshore for E-Commerce?

JAFZA Offshore is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for commercial businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers zero tax on all income, which is particularly valuable for e-commerce operations. Additionally, full capital repatriation ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. The offshore structure provides maximum confidentiality and is ideal for holding assets, intellectual property, and international trade operations. Many international businesses choose the offshore route for its streamlined compliance requirements and ability to open multi-currency bank accounts with leading UAE banks. Corporate bank account access further enhances the appeal of JAFZA Offshore for e-commerce professionals. Furthermore, no physical office required positions your e-commerce business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, JAFZA Offshore remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Zero tax on all income

Full capital repatriation

Corporate bank account access

No physical office required

Asset protection

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Nationals

Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your e-commerce licence is issued by JAFZA Offshore, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Lebanese Business Owners

Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles. Many have established successful businesses across various sectors. For your e-commerce business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Lebanese business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Lebanon-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Lebanese Nationals

Lebanese nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 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 JAFZA Offshore.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

6Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

7Bank reference letter from your current bank

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,000

* 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 JAFZA Offshore licence options for Lebanese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Lebanon through Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official JAFZA Offshore trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. JAFZA Offshore allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Lebanese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

E-Commerce in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

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RAKEZ

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DIFC

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Abu Dhabi DED

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JAFZA

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

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