E-Trader License for Dubai Expats : Activity List, Cost & More

Have you been running a small home business online - selling homemade crafts, digital products, offering photography services, or earning through platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or affiliate links? If yes, and you're living in Dubai, then the E-Trader license for Dubai expats and GCC nationals could be the perfect way to turn your hustle into a fully legal, recognized business.

This license is designed for individuals living in Dubai who want to run a home-based or online business legally - without needing a physical office or shop. Isn’t that amazing?

In this article, we’ll walk you through what the E-Trader license is, how much it costs, and what kind of business activities you can do with it. But here is something important to note - the business activities allowed under the E-Trader license are limited for expats compared to UAE and GCC nationals. Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything in detail.

Are you excited? Let’s go through it!

So, What is the E-Trader License in Dubai?

The E-Trader license was introduced by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) with one mission in mind - to regulate the booming business activities on social media platforms.

If you’ve ever:

a. Sold homemade products on Instagram or Facebook
b. Offered services through WhatsApp or TikTok
c. Created content and monetized it

Or provided services like photography, graphic design, or digital consulting... then this license was designed exactly for you!

And here’s the fun part - you don’t need an office, a warehouse, or even a physical shop. This license lets you run your business from the comfort of your home. Isn’t that amazing?

And yes, once your license is issued, you can open a business bank account to start accepting payments like a pro.

Who Can Apply for an E-Trader License?

This license is open to all Dubai residents aged 21 or older.

UAE and GCC nationals: Can apply for both commercial and professional license types. Expats Can apply for the professional service under E-trader license only.

If you're living in Dubai and have a valid Emirates ID, you’re already halfway there. Isn’t it great when things are this straightforward?

Business Activities Can You Do with an E-Trader License?

This is where it gets exciting.

As you may know from our previous article on types of business licenses in Dubai, the E-Trader license supports both commercial and professional activities - but there’s a twist based on who’s applying.

For UAE & GCC Nationals

You can:

1. Sell homemade products like crafts, candles or art.
2. Resell crafts, fashion items, or household goods
3. Run a social media store for physical products
4. Offer professional services like training, social media marketing, or coaching

You’re allowed to buy, trade, resell, and manufacture homemade products under this license. That’s pretty powerful!

E-trader license for Expats

Here’s the deal - you can only apply for a professional E-Trader license.

That means you can:

1. Offer services through social media or online
2. Sell digital products like courses, eBooks, or design templates
3. Do photography, makeup, video editing, or coaching sessions
4. Run a monetized blog or YouTube channel

However, you’re not allowed to trade or sell physical products under this license as an expat.

But don’t let that hold you back - there’s a world of professional service-based business you can still grow!

Some Popular Activities Allowed Under E-Trader?

Let’s go even deeper.

Here’s what many people in Dubai are doing under the E-Trader license:

1. Managing social media pages for businesses
2. Selling online courses, PDFs, or digital kits
3. Providing fitness coaching or wellness advice online
4. Running virtual workshops or webinars
5. Creating and selling graphic design or illustration services

As long as you're offering something digitally or service-based, you're good to go. And trust us - there's a massive market out there.

How Much Does the E-Trader License Cost in Dubai?

You’ll love this part - it’s super affordable.

The license costs AED 1,070 per year, and yes, it must be renewed annually. That’s it. No hidden fees or complicated approvals.

And guess what? You don’t even have to go anywhere to apply for the license. All you need to do is:

1. Head over to the Invest in Dubai portal
2. Log in with your UAE Pass
3. Make sure you have a social media profile for your business
4. Choose a name (we’ll help if needed)
5. Pay the license fee

Within 2 - 3 working days, your E-Trader license will be issued.

Excited already? We knew it.

What Documents Do You Need?

Here’s the super simple list:

1. A valid Emirates ID
2. Your Ejari (tenancy contract) or Makani number (location code for your address)

That’s it. No long paperwork or bank statements needed. Just proof you’re a Dubai resident and have a place you’re operating from.

Get a Bank Account with E-trader License

Yes, absolutely!

Once your E-Trader license is issued, you can open a business bank account with online-friendly banks. Most accounts are set up within 5–8 days, and you’re officially in business.

From here, you can accept client payments, receive brand deals, or sell digital products online - all 100% legal.

Let’s Recap:

1. You live in Dubai.
2. You’re making money online through your skills or content.
3. You want to legalize it and grow it.

The E-Trader license is your golden ticket. This license gives you the freedom to operate legally, build trust with customers, and access essential services like bank accounts.

Let COFTT Make It Even Easier

At COFTT, we’ve helped hundreds of freelancers, creators, and solo entrepreneurs in Dubai launch their businesses the right way. We’ll guide you step-by-step - from choosing your business activity to getting your license and opening your bank account.

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Want to get started fast and stress-free? Reach out to COFTT today - and let's turn your online hustle into a registered business.