Online shopping has become an integral part of our everyday lives, whether we purchase items for ourselves or our businesses. In the next few years, e-commerce businesses will be even more prominent due to the rising number of online shoppers. To practice e-commerce business in the UAE, you will require an e-trader license issued by Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET).

Moreover, you can legally sell products on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and other online marketplaces with the DET license. Online business has seen a rise among freelancers worldwide. You can be an entrepreneur without a brick-and-mortar shop! 

Sounds interesting? There has been an upsurge in demand for freelancer licenses in the UAE. According to the joint research "UAE eCommerce Landscape" by Dubai Economy and VISA, the United Arab Emirates is the most developed e-commerce industry in the MENA region. 

The country is on course to achieve a staggering US$16 billion (AED 59 billion) in e-commerce transactions in 2019, exaggerating your need for an online freelancing license in the UAE.

DET Freelancer License in Dubai

With the help of a valid license, an e-commerce license enables you to conduct business online. A conventional business may be successfully operated and have a physical structure. 

You can not open a physical store or issue visas under a freelancer license. However, you can take a freelance visa to enjoy freelancing benefits in the UAE!

It will also cover the only market with a constrained supply of goods, generating a meager profit or income. An e-trader license is a trade or business license required to operate e-commerce businesses like a physical enterprise in Dubai. 

The principal drivers of this sector are the buyer and the seller. To trade various items, they utilize the internet. Because of this, the business is an online corporation. As per the DET regulations, you must have a freelancer license for this business and all other legal enterprises.

Why Do You Need a DET Freelancer Licence in Dubai?

Dubai introduced a freelancer license to regulate and legalize online commercial and retail businesses to protect customers from illegal vendors. With a DET freelance license package in Dubai, as an entrepreneur, you can protect your trade name and be legally bound in case of any issues or disputes. 

Who can Apply for the Freelancer License?

Any young entrepreneurs, freelancers, self-employed individuals, or home-business owners can apply for the license. Only one individual can register under a single license.

Eligibility Criteria to apply:

• All UAE and GCC nationals can apply for an e-trader license.
• You must reside in Dubai and possess a valid Emirates ID 
• Applicants must be 21 years of age or older

DET Freelancer license Dubai for Expats

You must get a residence visa since the licenses are issued only for UAE nationals and residents. If you are a freelancer, you can apply for a freelancer resident visa and possess a valid Emirates ID to apply for the license. 

Please note that you can not use an e-trader license issued in Dubai in any other Emirates. The UAE and GCC nationals can engage in commercial and professional activities with an e-trader license, but expats have a few restrictions. 

Social Media Platforms You Can Use for Selling

With an e-trader license, you can sell products through social media or online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, E-commerce or personal websites, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. 

 Documents Required for DET Freelancer License in Dubai

• Emirates ID document
• Application form
• Copies of your passport and passport photos
• Trade names should be registered with the appropriate authorities. The approval has to be attached to the application.
• A valid proof of residency.

Can You Run a Business Online without a Freelancer License?

It is necessary to have a license for every trading activity in the UAE. You will face severe penalties for conducting online business without an e-trader license. A DET freelancer license is an excellent option for start-ups, solopreneurs, or small business owners wishing to test the market and launch their companies. 

Wrapping up,

DET freelancing licenses are for individuals with small endeavors or home-based entrepreneurs and freelancers. For a large business setup, you must get a proper trade license. Moreover, an e-trader license does not offer you a resident permit. You must apply for a freelance visa to get residency in the UAE. 

Get a freelance permit and visa with Freedom2Work! Enjoy hassle-free visa processing! Contact us at info@freedom2work.com or 800FREEDOM (373 3366) for more info!