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What is an E-Trader Licence?

Fast and Straightforward Licensing for Social Media Sellers and Home-Based Entrepreneurs

An E-Trader licence in Dubai is a digital trade licence issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), allowing UAE and GCC nationals residing in Dubai to legally sell products or services online without the need for office space or commercial premises.

This licence is designed for individuals operating through websites, social media platforms, or messaging apps, including Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok. It encompasses a wide range of home-based and online activities, as listed in the official DET e-commerce categories.

EGSH, as a government-authorised entity, handles the entire registration process — from selecting approved activities to DET validation and licence issuance — ensuring a fast, compliant setup for eligible applicants.

How to Get Your E-Trader Licence in Dubai

EGSH Makes Registration Smooth and Official

01

Visit Our Centre

Consult EGSH to confirm eligibility and choose a licensed activity from the approved E-Trader list.

02

Submit Documents

Provide Emirates ID, address proof, and other required information for DET verification.

03

Pay the Service Fee

Settle the official DET fee for E-Trader licence issuance through EGSH.

04

Receive Your E-Trader Licence

Once approved, obtain your licence digitally within minutes and start selling legally online.

Documents Needed for E-Trader Licence

Minimal Paperwork, Fully Online Process

Passport Copy or Emirates ID

Identification document of the applicant (UAE nationals or GCC residents only).

Trade Name Selection

Reserve the preferred name under which the online activity will be registered.

Mobile Number & Email Address

Registered UAE contact details required for licence issuance and login.

Activity Details

Specific business activity chosen from the official E-Trader activities list.

About EGSH

Enabling Compliant and Confident Online Businesses in the UAE

EGSH is a government-authorised centre officially approved to manage E-Trader licence applications in coordination with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

All steps — from eligibility confirmation to activity selection and licence issuance — are carried out through official DET platforms, with full legal compliance.

Applications are reviewed for accuracy, ID verification, and activity eligibility to ensure compliance with UAE online trading regulations. The entire process can be completed in one place, with structured support, instant registration, and transparent licencing for home-based and social media businesses.

Why EGSH

EGSH makes all public services available in one place—fast, transparent, and compliant. We deliver convenience, personalised support, and priority processing for every client, focusing on innovation and sustainability.

Our Mission

To simplify life in Dubai by providing secure, seamless access to all government and real estate services from a single centre

Our Vision

To set the benchmark for integrated government solutions, delivering efficiency and exceptional client care across the UAE.

Our Values

Transparency, efficiency, innovation, and complete client satisfaction.

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What is an e-trader licence in Dubai, and how does it work?

An e-trader licence in Dubai is a sole-owner permit issued by DET for selling goods or services online without a physical office. It covers home-based and social media businesses and is available to UAE and GCC nationals residing in the UAE and the GCC.

How do I get an e-trader licence in Dubai?

To obtain an e-trader licence in Dubai, you must be eligible — only UAE or GCC nationals aged 18 and above residing in Dubai can apply. Then select an approved activity from the DET list and submit your Emirates ID and personal details to DET. EGSH offers full support as an authorised centre, guiding you through every step and ensuring you receive your e-trader licence within 5 minutes and without complications.

What is included in the official DET e-trader licence activities list?

The DET e-trader licence activities list includes various professional and commercial activities that can be conducted online without a physical office, such as fashion design, marketing services, photography, online trading of handmade goods, consultancy, and more. The activity must not require external approvals or a commercial premise. EGSH helps verify your activity against the official list before applying.

What is the total cost of an e-trader licence in Dubai?

The government fee for an e-trader licence issued by DET is AED 1,070 (this includes the licence fees and knowledge and innovation fees) + AED 300 (Dubai Chamber membership fees). However, the total cost of an e-trader licence in Dubai may vary depending on the business activity. For accurate estimates and end-to-end support, EGSH offers comprehensive consultation tailored to your specific business setup.

How do I renew an e-trader licence, and how often is this required?

An e-trader licence issued by DET must be renewed annually. Renewal can be done online via the official DET platform using your Emirates ID. EGSH can assist with timely renewal, ensuring compliance and continuity of your online business.

Can I sell legally on Instagram with an e-trader licence?

The e-trader licence in Dubai legally permits individuals to promote and sell products or services through social media platforms, such as Instagram, as long as the selected activity is approved under the DET e-trader licence activities list. EGSH helps verify that your intended activity is eligible and assists with the complete licence application process through official government channels.

Still have any questions?

Why Choose EGSH for Your E-Trader Licence

Online Business Licensing Made Simple

Government Authorisation

EGSH is an authorised Dubai Economy centre providing official business registration services in full compliance with local regulations.

One-Stop Registration Service

All steps — consultation, document submission, payment, and application tracking — are handled in one place.

Secure and Confidential Transactions

All personal and corporate information is processed securely and is fully compliant with UAE data protection laws.

Expert Support in Several Languages

Our team offers services in English, Arabic, and other languages to ensure clear communication.

Personalised Assistance

Each client receives individual attention from an experienced specialist.

Flexible Appointment Scheduling

Book your visit at a convenient time—our office is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, to accommodate your schedule.