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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.