The UAE is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in the region. With strong logistics, high purchasing power, and platforms like Amazon and Noon, starting an online business seems simple.
However, importing and selling products in the UAE is regulated.
Many founders make costly mistakes because they assume:
“If I can ship it, I can sell it.”
That is not always true.
This guide explains the legal framework you must follow before importing and selling products online in the UAE.
Obtain the Correct Trade License
Before importing or selling any product, you must have a valid trade license issued by:
-
Mainland authority such as Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism
or - A UAE Free Zone authority
Your license activity must allow:
- E-commerce
- General trading or specific product trading
- Import & export
Without the correct activity, customs clearance and marketplace approvals may be rejected.
Apply for a Customs Code
To import goods into Dubai, your company must obtain a Customs Code from:
Dubai Customs
This is mandatory even if:
- You import small quantities
- You import through courier
- You import samples
Without a customs code, your shipment cannot legally clear customs.
Do All Products Require Registration?
No.
But many product categories are regulated and require prior approval before import or sale.
There are two types of products:
A. Non-Regulated Products (Typically No Pre-Registration Required)
These usually include:
- Standard clothing and fashion items
- Non-electric home décor
- Stationery
- Basic furniture
- Non-electronic accessories
These products generally require:
- Trade license
- Customs code
- Proper HS code classification
- Country of origin marking
- Compliant labeling
However, even non-regulated products remain subject to customs inspection and consumer protection laws.
B. Regulated Products (Registration / Approval Required)
Certain categories require approval before selling.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Must be registered with:
Dubai Municipality
Includes:
- Skin care
- Makeup
- Hair products
- Perfumes
Food & Supplements
Also regulated by:
Dubai Municipality
Includes:
- Packaged food
- Herbal products
- Protein powders
- Vitamins
Medical Devices
Regulated by:
Ministry of Health and Prevention
Includes:
- Diagnostic devices
- Monitoring equipment
- Certain wellness devices
Wireless / Telecom Devices
Require approval from:
Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority
Includes:
- WiFi routers
- Bluetooth devices
- Smart devices
- IoT products
Labeling Requirements
Even if a product does not require registration, it must comply with UAE labeling standards.
Depending on product type, labeling may require:
- Product name
- Country of origin
- Manufacturer details
- Ingredients (if applicable)
- Expiry date (if applicable)
- Arabic labeling (for certain categories like food & cosmetics)
Incorrect labeling is one of the most common reasons for shipment delays.
VAT Registration
If your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 annually, VAT registration is mandatory under:
Federal Tax Authority
Even if you sell only online through:
- Shopify
- Amazon UAE
- Noon
VAT obligations may apply.
Failure to register on time may result in penalties.
Consumer Protection Compliance
Online sellers must comply with UAE consumer protection regulations, including:
- Clear refund & return policies
- Transparent pricing
- Accurate product descriptions
- Proper invoicing
Misleading advertising or selling non-compliant goods can result in fines and reputational damage.
Can You Import Using Someone Else’s License?
While technically possible, it is legally risky.
Using another company’s customs code:
- Transfers liability
- Creates compliance risks
- Complicates ownership and control
For sustainable growth, your business should operate under its own compliant structure.
Final Practical Rule
If your product:
- Goes inside the body → registration required
- Is applied to skin → registration required
- Emits wireless signals → approval required
- Is food or supplement → registration required
If none of the above, it may not require pre-registration — but it must still comply with customs and consumer protection laws.
Conclusion
The UAE is a highly attractive market — but it is regulated.
Building your online business correctly from day one helps you:
✔ Avoid penalties
✔ Prevent shipment rejections
✔ Build brand credibility
✔ Scale with confidence
Compliance is not a barrier — it is your foundation.
How Finzoryx Can Support You
At Finzoryx, we assist with:
- Trade license advisory
- Customs code registration
- Product registration
- VAT registration & compliance
- Ongoing accounting and tax support
📞 +971-503978121