Dubai, UAE

How to set up an online business directory platform

I am looking forward to setting up an online business directory for businesses in a specific sector and charging these businesses an annual fee for there ads.

For me to accept online payments from these businesses in Dubai, is it a legal requirement to have my business incorporated in Dubai/UAE or I can incorporate it offshore like in the BVI's, Cyprus...etc. and legally operate here?

The reason is that the business may not necessarily operate in the UAE alone but also in many other countries.

Hayyan Khan

Avrio Legal Group

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25 Jan 2020, 06:53

Hi,

In order to operate an online platform and receive payments in return, you must be licensed by the relevant jurisdiction (either the UAE mainland or Free Zone).

Since you plan on operating in more than one country, we advise that you license your company through a free zone. This will offer you the flexibility to support your business.

Our company has a strong professional relationship with a number of free zones within the UAE, and therefore, we are able to offer highly competitive prices.

For further information, please contact us via phone or email.

25 Jan 2020, 07:11

Thanks for your response!

But could you please explain how is it possible to use online companies like [------] or [-------] (as examples)?

These are online businesses who I can pay to from the UAE, however, they aren't based in the UAE?

25 Jan 2020, 09:21

Hello,

You are correct, the companies you mentioned are licensed from their respective jurisdictions and are not based in the UAE, but they provide services within the UAE through an online platform.

However, for a company that will be based in the UAE (UAE being the headquarters so to speak), in order to provide services locally and internationally, that company must be licensed by a relevant UAE authority.

This is where the UAE has introduced the option of an e-commerce license through which entrepreneurs can host and maintain online platforms to fulfill their business requirements.

25 Jan 2020, 09:52

Ok!

Thank you for clarifying,

Much appreciated!

26 Jan 2020, 04:05

Are you looking to set-up your company in a specific jurisdiction or you are still in the research phase for the most suitable option for you?

Either way, we're happy to provide guidance on the process, costs and timeline.

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