Amazon’s growth and Amazon.ae Seller Central are among the most remarkable business success stories. In just over a decade, it evolved from a modest online bookstore into a global conglomerate.
This success extends to many of its sellers, from large corporations to individual entrepreneurs, selling everything from electronics to food, clothing, and office supplies.
Amazon’s UAE platform, amazon.ae, is a newer player in the local e-commerce space, officially rebranded in 2019 following the acquisition of Souq.com two years prior. However, due to its strong brand and Souq.com’s infrastructure, it quickly impacted the UAE market.
Last year, the site generated over USD 350 million in sales, a number expected to grow in the coming years.
Good news for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region: setting up to sell on Amazon.ae is incredibly easy. By partnering with a local business setup expert, you can start selling in a few days.
Can I sell on Amazon.ae Seller Central?
In most cases, yes. However, you’ll need a license. An e-commerce license is required to trade online in the UAE.
You can apply for a mainland or free zone license, with most e-commerce businesses opting for the free zone model. Free zones offer 100% customs tax exemption and no currency restrictions, making them ideal for online trading.
Many free zones also provide warehousing, storage, and excellent transport links via air, sea, and land.
How to obtain an e-commerce license
Working with a company setup agent like Dubai Business Service simplifies the formation process, which involves four steps.
Step 1: Choose and register your company name, ensuring it meets UAE naming rules. Offensive language or references to Allah or Islam are not allowed, and personal names must be used in full if included.
Step 2: Once your name is approved, you can apply for your e-commerce license through your selected free zone or have an agent manage this for you. Free zones are self-regulated, meaning no additional approvals are needed, making the process more efficient. You’ll need to submit basic documents like passport copies and your application.
Step 3: If you plan to live and work in the UAE, you’ll also need a visa, which requires biometric data, a fitness test, a blood test, and a chest x-ray. If eligible, you can also sponsor family members for their visas. A setup agent can manage your visa and trade license applications.
Step 4: Once you have your license and visa, you can apply for a corporate bank account. While Dubai offers many banking options, the process can be complex for foreign business owners, so working with an expert is advisable.
Requirements to Start Selling with Dubai Business Services
To complete your registration and start selling through Dubai Business Services, please have the following ready:
Business Email ID or Existing Customer Account:
You will use this email or account for registration and all official communications.
Contact Number:
Provide an active phone number for verification and support-related contact.
National Identity Proof:
Submit a valid ID (such as Emirates ID) for identity verification and secure transactions.
For registered businesses:
Trade License: Mandatory if you are a business owner.
E-Commerce License: Required to sell products online through the Dubai Business Services platform.
Power of Attorney: Only required when a legal representative or account handler is managing the account.
For individual sellers:
A recent document (not older than 3 months) to confirm your address such as a bank statement, credit card statement or utility bill.
Bank account details:
An active bank account is required so that Dubai Business Services can transfer your sales proceeds.
How to Start Selling on Amazon U A E
Once your e-commerce license and business setup are complete, you can register as a seller on Amazon UAE.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit Amazon UAE Seller Central and click ‘Start Selling’.
Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Amazon store.
Step 3: Provide business details, including:
- Business name and addressA valid UAE bank account
- A billing address and contact number
Step 4: List your products and start selling!
Advantages of selling on Amazon.ae Seller Central
Selling on Amazon.ae Seller Central offers many benefits, the most significant being access to a global market. After setting up an account, you’ll instantly reach millions of potential customers. Amazon’s ready-made infrastructure provides sellers with affordable, enterprise-level e-commerce tools and minimal startup costs. Sometimes, you may only need a laptop and an internet connection.
Maximizing Your Sales on Amazon.ae
Research is key to success. Use online tools to identify top-selling items and analyze your competition. Create standout product listings and focus on after-sales service, encouraging customers to leave positive reviews.
Get started selling on Amazon.ae with Dubai Business Service
The UAE business setup process is straightforward but requires local regulations and customs knowledge. That’s why it’s recommended that you work with a business setup company. They can guide you through the process and help you select the right license and structure for your needs and budget.
By using professional setup services, you ensure that your license and visa applications are accurate, avoiding delays or rejections. With a formation expert, all you need to provide is essential information, and they will handle the rest, from managing applications to liaising with relevant authorities, ensuring you’re ready to start trading smoothly.
FAQs
Q1. How to become an Amazon seller
Setting up as a seller on Amazon.ae Seller Central is quick and straightforward. Visit https://services.amazon.ae/ and follow the instructions to start selling.
Q2. How long does it take to open a store on Amazon.ae Seller Central?
There is no fixed timeline. The application process takes minutes, but approval can range from 24 hours to several weeks.
Q3. What documents are required to become a seller on Amazon.ae Seller Central?
During the online registration, you must submit your business name, address, and contact details, a valid bank account and billing address, and a phone number.
Q4. How to make money on Amazon UAE
As with any business, research is key when selling on Amazon.ae Seller Central. Tools are available to help identify popular products, and studying your competition is essential. Once you’ve chosen a product, focus on standing out. Use your experience as a customer to create compelling listings and encourage reviews, as they often influence purchasing decisions.
