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Time Business News
7 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
E-commerce license cost and renewal details in Dubai free zones
Starting an online business in the UAE requires obtaining an E-Commerce License in Dubai, which allows individuals and companies to legally offer products or services through digital platforms. As online retail, dropshipping, and digital services grow rapidly, this license has become essential for anyone planning to sell through websites, apps, or marketplaces within or outside the UAE. Dubai offers one of the most favorable environments for e-commerce startups, thanks to its strategic location, advanced logistics, and supportive government regulations. Whether you're targeting local consumers or global buyers, having a registered online business boosts your brand credibility, enables you to run paid ads, open a business bank account, and operate within legal limits. There are two primary ways to obtain an E-Commerce License in Dubai: through the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland companies or through one of the various Dubai free zones, such as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai South, or Dubai CommerCity. Each offers different benefits depending on your business goals, visa needs, and target markets. The DED license allows you to sell directly to the UAE market without a local agent, while free zone licenses often come with 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. Both models require trade name registration, submission of identification documents, and business activity approval. Online businesses that sell physical products may also need warehouse space or a fulfillment partner. To complete the E-commerce License Registration in Dubai, you must gather specific documents and follow a clear application process. These documents and steps ensure your business is legally recognized and properly categorized: Passport copy of the business owner or shareholders UAE residence visa and Emirates ID (if applicable) Proof of residential address or tenancy contract Trade name reservation certificate Description of e-commerce business activity Initial approval from licensing authority Payment of license and registration fees Once these documents are submitted, you can receive your trade license within 3 to 5 working days in most cases. After registration, you can also apply for additional services such as office space, employee visas, or VAT registration, if needed. The E-Commerce License Cost in Dubai and Business setup in Dubai depends on whether you choose a free zone or mainland setup, as well as on optional services like office rent, visa quotas, and business activities. Here's a general cost breakdown: DED e-commerce license: AED 12,000 to AED 15,000 (approx.) Free zone license (no visa): AED 5,750 to AED 10,000 Free zone license (with visa quota): AED 11,000 to AED 18,000 Shared desk or flexi-desk: AED 5,000 to AED 8,000 per year E-channel registration and immigration card: AED 2,500 to AED 3,000 Many business setup consultants in Dubai offer bundled packages that include all services like license issuance, office space, and visa processing. Some free zones offer promotional rates for new startups or female entrepreneurs. It's also important to renew your license annually to avoid fines and maintain business continuity. Getting an E-Commerce License in Dubai offers many benefits that go beyond legal compliance. Dubai is a major global hub for trade and technology, which gives online entrepreneurs a significant edge. Here are some major benefits: Full legal rights to advertise and sell through online platforms Ability to open corporate bank accounts in the UAE Protection of intellectual property and business brand Easier access to payment gateways and logistics partners Business credibility for local and international clients Eligibility for UAE residency visa for owners and staff Freedom to trade globally without currency restrictions With growing consumer trust in digital platforms and government support for digital transformation, e-commerce in Dubai is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. This makes now an ideal time to enter the market with a registered and licensed online business. Before applying for your license, it's important to evaluate your business model. For instance, a seller targeting UAE customers through social media may benefit more from a DED license, while a digital service provider working internationally might find free zones more cost-effective. It's also useful to consult a licensed business setup and Business setup in Abu Dhabi Mainland advisor who can suggest the best jurisdiction based on your budget, visa needs, and future goals. If you plan to scale your business, consider choosing a free zone that allows easy upgrade of license activities, expansion of staff visas, and leasing of office space. Also, make sure your trade name is aligned with your business type and that it complies with local naming rules. Q1: Is an E-Commerce License in Dubai mandatory for online business? Yes, you need a valid e-commerce license to legally operate an online business in Dubai. Q2: What is the E-Commerce License Cost in Dubai? The cost ranges from AED 5,750 to AED 18,000 depending on the license type and visa requirement. Q3: Can a foreigner apply for an e-commerce license in Dubai? Yes, foreigners can apply and own 100% of the business, especially in free zones. Q4: How long does it take to get an e-commerce license in Dubai? It usually takes between 3 to 7 working days if all documents are complete.Q5: Can I register my e-commerce business online in Dubai? Yes, most free zones and DED allow online applications and digital document submissions. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
7 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Legal Requirements for Forming a Business in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has rapidly become a hub for international trade, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Investors from around the world prefer company formation in Abu Dhabi Mainland because it allows access to the local UAE market without trade restrictions. Businesses established in the mainland can freely operate throughout the Emirates, deal with government entities, and benefit from a favorable tax environment, including zero income tax and competitive corporate tax rates. The economic stability, modern infrastructure, and pro-business reforms make Abu Dhabi a compelling location for entrepreneurs looking to build and scale operations in the region. Investors have several options when choosing a legal structure for setting up in Abu Dhabi Mainland. The most common form is a Limited Liability Company (LLC), which allows the business to have one or more shareholders with limited financial liability. This structure suits commercial and industrial businesses. Other available structures include Sole Proprietorship, best suited for individual professionals; Civil Company, for service providers like engineers or doctors; and Branch of a Foreign Company, ideal for expanding an existing international brand into the UAE. Each structure comes with its own documentation, ownership, and licensing requirements. The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Abu Dhabi permits a wide variety of business activities under commercial, professional, and industrial licenses. From general trading and consultancy to construction, tourism, health care, real estate, and education, there are hundreds of registered activities to choose from. If your business involves a regulated industry (e.g., legal services, finance, or medical fields), you may need additional approvals from relevant authorities before finalizing your license. To successfully register a company in Abu Dhabi Mainland, you will need several important documents. These include: Passport copies of all shareholders Emirates ID and residence visa (if applicable) Trade name reservation certificate Initial approval from the DED Notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA) Tenancy contract for office space External approvals (if required for specific activities) Once these documents are submitted and approved, the DED will issue the business license, allowing the company to begin operations legally. The business setup cost in Dubai Mainland depends on the business activity, number of visas required, office size, and chosen legal structure. On average, setting up a company can cost between AED 15,000 to AED 30,000, including government fees, trade license issuance, name reservation, and notarization. Additional costs may include: Immigration and labor card fees Visa processing charges Office rent and Ejari (tenancy) registration Investors often work with business setup consultants in Abu Dhabi to handle documentation, legal approvals, and minimize delays in the process. Setting up a company in the mainland comes with numerous advantages. Businesses can enjoy 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, thanks to the UAE's updated commercial company law. Mainland companies can also freely conduct business across the UAE without needing a local agent or distributor. Another major benefit is the ability to apply for an unlimited number of visas, subject to office space size, which allows for smooth business expansion. Additionally, mainland companies can bid on government contracts—a major competitive advantage not available to businesses in most free zones. A unique feature of Abu Dhabi Mainland licensing is the requirement for a physical office space. This space must comply with local regulations and be registered with the Abu Dhabi Municipality. The size of the office determines the number of visas you can obtain for employees. As your business grows and you need to hire more staff, expanding your office space becomes essential. Flexi-desk or shared office options may be acceptable for smaller companies, especially those in consultancy or IT services. 1. Legal Structure and Trade Name Approval Choose the appropriate business structure (LLC, Sole Proprietorship, etc.) and get your company's trade name approved by the Department of Economic Development. The name must be unique, relevant to your activity, and meet government naming criteria. 2. Obtain Initial Approval and Office Lease Apply for initial approval from the DED and secure a tenancy contract (Ejari) for office space. This is mandatory for proceeding with license issuance. Depending on your business activity, external approvals may be required from regulatory bodies. 3. License Issuance and Company Registration After receiving all approvals and completing the documentation (MOA, tenancy, etc.), you will get your Business Setup in Dubai. You can then apply for immigration and labor files to hire staff and apply for residency visas. Q1: Can foreign investors fully own a company in Abu Dhabi Mainland? Yes. Most sectors now allow 100% foreign ownership under updated UAE laws. Q2: How long does it take to complete the company formation process? On average, the process takes between 7 to 14 business days, depending on activity and approvals. Q3: Is it necessary to have an office in Abu Dhabi Mainland? Yes. A tenancy contract for a physical office or flexi-desk is mandatory to issue the license. Q4: What are the advantages of mainland over free zone setup? Mainland companies can operate across the UAE, participate in government contracts, and are not limited to zone-specific operations. Q5: Are there tax benefits for mainland businesses in Abu Dhabi? Yes. The UAE offers zero personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates, making it attractive for businesses. Q6: Can a mainland company apply for employee visas? Yes. Once the immigration file is opened, companies can sponsor employee and dependent visas. Q7: Do I need a local partner or sponsor? Not for most activities. 100% foreign ownership is allowed in many sectors, but some still require a UAE national as a local service agent.Q8: Who regulates company registration in Abu Dhabi Mainland? The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the main regulatory body for mainland business setup. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Gulf Today
25-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
14.5% increase in total licensed capital of active business licences in H1: Ras Al Khaimah DED
A report issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK DED) revealed a 14.5% increase in the total licensed capital of active business licences registered with the department during the first half of 2025, reaching Dhs10.2 billion. The report also noted a 6% growth in the total number of active licences in the emirate compared to the same period last year. According to the report, industrial licences recorded the highest growth, increasing by 14.3%, followed by a 6% rise in professional licences, and a 5% growth in commercial licences. Amina Qahtan, Director of the Department of Commercial Affairs, stated that these results reflect the sustained economic momentum witnessed in the emirate. She attributed the positive performance to the support of the wise leadership and a series of facilitative measures that have enhanced business resilience and attracted investors. Qahtan highlighted that the number of new licences issued in the first half of 2025 increased by 17.6%, with industrial licences experiencing the highest surge at 111%. Commercial licences increased by 12.6%, while professional licences rose by around 20%. She added that the total licensed capital of new businesses climbed by 7.5%, reaching Dhs495 million, compared to Dhs460 million during the same period last year. The capital for professional licences alone grew by 40%, while capital associated with industrial licences multiplied by 6.7 times, reaching Dhs47.5 million. WAM
India Today
23-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
The silent strain: Why dry eyes are the new urban epidemic
Dry, itchy, and irritated eyes often feel like a small annoyance. But even unassuming signs like redness and irriation could just be the beginning of an overlooked condition called Dry Eye Disease (DED).Dry eyes happen when your eyes don't cause enough tears, or when the tears aren't good enough to keep the surface of the eye properly moisturised. Without this protection, the eyes become inflamed, irritated and even get damaged over CAUSES DRY EYES? Tears are a complex mix of oil, water, and mucin. If any part of this delicate balance is disrupted, it can cause the tear film to break result: dryness, blurry vision, a burning sensation, or even watery eyes - the body's reflex to of the most common symptoms include: a gritty feeling in the eyes, burning or stinging, redness and light sensitivity, fluctuating or blurry vision and excessive tearing (a response to dryness).According to Dr. Parul Maheshwari Sharma, Senior Ophthalmologist at Fortis Gurugram, more and more people, now including younger adults, are coming to clinics with dry eye symptoms. And the reasons are IS DRY EYE SO COMMON NOW?One of the biggest culprits is excessive screen time.'When we stare at digital screens for long periods, our blink rate drops,' explains Dr. Sharma. 'That means tears evaporate faster, leading to dryness.' Incomplete blinking is another hidden trigger, we don't fully close our eyes during each blink, which affects how tears spread across the it's not just about screens. Modern lifestyles and environments are also to pollution and dust irritate the eyes, air-conditioning and low humidity dry out the tear film, contact lens wear can interfere with tear production, ageing and hormonal changes, especially in postmenopausal women, reduce natural tear THAN JUST A SCREEN PROBLEMDr. Sharma points out that dry eyes aren't only caused by external factors. Sometimes, they can be a sign of deeper health issues or lifestyle habits:Autoimmune diseases like Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can all contribute to dry eye. Diabetes and rosacea may also disrupt tear gland drugs, including antihistamines, antidepressants, oral contraceptives, and acne treatments like isotretinoin, can interfere with tear use of eye makeup, eyelash extensions, and cosmetic eye procedures (like LASIK or Botox around the eyes) may block or damage the oil glands that help produce Sharma highlights low levels of vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to poor tear quality. Add to that chronic stress and lack of sleep, and the eyes pay the environmental triggers such as long flights, dry climates, or even a windy day can strip moisture from the eyes, especially if you're already prone to dry YOU SHOULDN'T IGNORE IT'Dry eye isn't just an inconvenience,' warns Dr. Sharma. 'If left untreated, it can lead to chronic inflammation, corneal damage, and even affect your ability to see clearly.' In severe cases, people may struggle with daily tasks like reading, driving, or working on a the good news is, dry eye is often starts with lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears. For more critical cases, doctors may recommend:Lifestyle changes (like taking regular screen breaks)Nutritional supplements (omega-3 fatty acids)Prescription medicationsIn-office procedures to unblock tear glands or reduce inflammationDON'T SELF-MEDICATE'Many people ignore symptoms or just keep using over-the-counter drops without seeing a doctor,' says Dr. Sharma. 'That can make things worse. A proper diagnosis and customised treatment plan can make a big difference.'If you're experiencing frequent eye discomfort, especially in today's screen-heavy world, don't brush it eyes may be trying to tell you something.- Ends
Arabian Business
19-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Ras Al Khaimah sees 17.6 per cent surge in new business licences in H1 2025, led by industrial sector boom
Ras Al Khaimah' s economy continues to gain momentum in 2025, with the Department of Economic Development (DED) reporting a 17.6 per cent increase in new business licences issued during the first half of the year. A total of 1,219 licences were issued from January to June, up from 1,037 in the same period last year. The sharpest rise came from the industrial sector, which saw a remarkable 111 per cent increase in new licences, underscoring Ras Al Khaimah's growing appeal as a manufacturing and industrial hub. Ras Al Khaimah business licences Professional licences grew by 20 per cent, and commercial licences by 12.6 per cent. Amina Qahtan, Director of the Commercial Affairs Department at the Department of Economic Development, affirmed that the positive results reflect the emirate's dynamic and growing economic trajectory. She attributed this growth to the wise leadership's directives aimed at fostering a more flexible economy, supported by a range of incentives and facilitative measures that ease doing business and attract investors. Ras Al Khaimah economic highlights Wholesale and retail trade: 44.4 per cent of new licences Construction: 18 per cent Accommodation and food services: 13.2 per cent Manufacturing: 11.1 per cent Other services: 8.6 per cent The total registered capital for new businesses increased by 7.5 per cent in H1 2025. Notably, the capital of industrial licences surged by more than 7.6 times compared to the same period in 2024. Professional licences also saw a capital increase of 24.7 per cent. Al Jazirah Al Hamra led in attracting new capital, accounting for nearly one-third of all new investments. Al Dhait and Al Ghail followed, with 13 per cent and 8.5 per cent respectively. Geographically, Al Dhait area recorded the highest share of new licences, accounting for 8.7 percent of the total, followed by Al Nakheel with 8.4 percent, and both Al Qusaidat and Julphar with 7.7 percent. In terms of the ratio of new licences to active licences within each area, Khalifa bin Zayed City ranked first with 18.9 percent, followed by Dahan at 13.4 percent, and Al Ghail at 9.1 percent. These figures suggest a broadening distribution of economic activity across Ras Al Khaimah's districts, reflecting both grassroots growth and targeted investment strategies.
