Start Dropshipping from the UAE in 2025 – Trade License and Visa Costs Explained

Author: Melban Mascarenhas
Published: July 28, 2025

Overview of UAE Dropshipping Market and Licensing

The UAE continues to be a popular choice for entrepreneurs worldwide who want to build online businesses. The dropshipping license UAE cost is highly sought after, as the model is one of the fastest-growing due to the flexibility it offers. A recent analysis reveals that the UAE dropshipping market was worth about USD 1,691.54 million in 2024 and is expected to be worth USD 2,751.16 million by 2030.

SPC Free Zone offers a complete process for licensing, fast-track visa assistance, and an easy setup system for modern entrepreneurs who want to start an internet business like dropshipping.

SPC Free Zone Makes Dropshipping Business Setup Fast, Affordable, and Compliant

You can run a dropshipping business that complies with regulations if you have a business license from SPC Free Zone. This way, you can trade all over the UAE and the world, no matter where you sell, such as Amazon or other online marketplaces.

SPC Free Zone takes care of everything for you, right from sending your documents and application, to acquiring the visas you need. The Free Zone also has packages and a fast license process, which helps to reduce any delays that usually occur. This lets business owners focus on running their businesses while SPC Free Zone takes care of the backend.

Dropshipping License UAE Cost Varies by Visa Quota and Location

The 2025 dropshipping license cost UAE depends on the entrepreneur's visa quota and the licensing authority they choose.

Mainland setups normally have more regulations, require a greater investment up front, and often need external sponsors. SPC Free Zone, on the other hand, allows you to choose the number of visas you want, from 0 to 6 or more, and value-based pricing. The SPC Free Zone dropshipping license price is meant to help both small businesses who are just starting out and large firms that are looking to expand. This level of freedom is great for remote teams or business owners who want to grow slowly and stay within a small budget.

Breakdown of Trade License Fees to Start a Dropshipping Business in the UAE

Understanding the dropshipping trade license UAE fees is essential before launching. At SPC Free Zone, you can customise your package based on your visa needs.

Base License Packages by Visa Quota

Visa Quota License Cost (AED)
0 visa quota 5,750
1 visa quota 6,875
2 visa quotas 8,575
6+ visas 16,475

Optional Services and Add-ons

Service Cost (AED)
Visa allocation x 1 1,600
Establishment Card 640
E-Channel Registration 2,280
Investor Visa (2 years) x 1 2,200
Emirates ID x 1 330
Change of Status x 1 700
Medical Test x 1 365

UAE Dropshipping License Price in AED – SPC Free Zone Packages

The UAE dropshipping license price AED packages at SPC Free Zone are built around simplicity and transparency. Whether you are a solo founder or hiring staff, you can select a package that fits your team's size.

Package Options

These rates are among the best in the region, especially for businesses that start online.

SPC Free Zone Offers a Cost-Effective Way to Start a Dropshipping Business in Sharjah

When it comes to the cheapest dropshipping license Sharjah Free Zone options, SPC Free Zone leads the way. This is perfect for new business owners starting with just their laptops or testing markets with limited capital.

With this business structure, the SPC Free Zone dropshipping business license cost is especially favourable for first-time entrepreneurs who want to avoid high investment requirements and inventory or storage overheads.

E-Trader vs. Business License for Dropshipping in the UAE – Know the Difference

While an e-trader license might seem appealing for first-time sellers, it has several limitations.

Comparison Table: E-Trader License vs Full Trade License

Feature E-Trader License Full Trade License
Visa Support ✘ Not included ✔ Included
Trade Scope ✘ Limited to Emirate ✔ UAE & Global
Office Requirement ✘ Home-based only ✔ Flexible options
Business Scaling ✘ Restricted ✔ Scalable

The comparison above between the e-trader license vs dropshipping license UAE shows that a full business license is better for serious dropshipping business owners.

Visa Support Included When You Set Up a Dropshipping Business with SPC Free Zone

A key benefit of SPC Free Zone is that a dropshipping license visa included UAE package is available. If your license includes a visa quota, SPC Free Zone manages the whole visa process:

The visa remains valid for 2 years and can be renewed along with your license. This is highly beneficial for foreigners who want to live in the UAE for an extended duration to run their business.

The Cost of Starting a Dropshipping Business in the UAE with a Visa

So, how much is a dropshipping license in the UAE in 2025 if you include visa processing and documentation?

Sample Cost Breakdown: Solo Founder (1 Visa)

Item Cost (AED)
Business License cost 6,875
Visa allocation x 1 1,600
Establishment Card 640
E-Channel Registration 2,280
Investor Visa (2 years) x 1 2,200
Emirates ID x 1 330
Medical Test x 1 365
Total 14,290

SPC Free Zone offers packages such as AED 14,290 for license + 2-year visa which is ideal for new businesses looking for an all-inclusive setup.

The total cost of dropshipping license Dubai entrepreneurs may encounter depends on how many visas are included and whether additional services like banking or office space are needed.

Conclusion

Starting a dropshipping business in the UAE is simpler than ever. Entrepreneurs can obtain affordable licenses, receive on-site visa assistance, and benefit from a faster setup process that is designed for modern entrepreneurs.

If you are starting small or planning to scale, the transparent pricing and integrated support make SPC Free Zone one of the smartest choices for dropshipping in the region.

Set up your dropshipping business legally and affordably with SPC Free Zone. Get your trade license and visa, all in one place, starting from AED 6,875.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of starting a dropshipping business in the UAE with a visa?

A business license starts from AED 6,875, and the cost goes up if you require assistance with obtaining visas.

What does the SPC Free Zone trade license include for dropshipping businesses?

It gives you legal authority to run a business and sell online, as well as apply for visas.

Is visa support included with a free zone license for dropshipping in the UAE?

Yes, if the package you choose includes a visa quota, you can apply for a visa.

What are the differences between an e-trader license and a trade license for dropshipping?

An e-trader license does not include a visa and can only be used with limited scope, but the trade license gives them full support.

Can I run my dropshipping business outside the UAE using an SPC Free Zone license?

Yes, you can operate your business in the UAE from anywhere in the world.

What documents are required to apply for a business license for dropshipping in the UAE?

A copy of a valid passport, a photo, proof of address, and an application form.

How long does it take to get a trade license and visa for a dropshipping business through SPC Free Zone?

Obtaining a business license normally takes 1 to 2 days, but processing a visa can take 5 to 7 business days.