The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the strongest trade hubs in the Middle East. With its strategic location, free trade policies, robust logistics infrastructure, and high internet usage, the eCommerce industry is rapidly growing. When Amazon transformed Souq.com into Amazon.ae in 2019, the UAE turned into a major opportunity for both local entrepreneurs and international sellers.
For entrepreneurs who want to sell on Amazon, the first step is to open an Amazon seller account. This guide explains in detail the process of creating an Amazon seller account in the UAE, the required documents, the benefits of setting up a company, payment and tax procedures, marketing strategies, and key tips for success.
Why Register an Amazon Seller Account in the UAE?
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High purchasing power: The UAE has one of the highest per capita incomes, boosting eCommerce spending.
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Global customer reach: With Amazon.ae, sellers can reach not only UAE customers but also the wider GCC (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman).
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Tax advantages: There is no corporate tax, only a 5% VAT.
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Amazon FBA benefits: Amazon’s fulfillment centers in the UAE simplify logistics.
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Strategic location: The UAE serves as a bridge between Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Types of Amazon Seller Accounts
There are two types of seller accounts on Amazon UAE:
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Individual Seller Account: Best for small-scale sellers. No monthly subscription fee, but higher commission per sale.
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Professional Seller Account: Suitable for larger sales volumes. A monthly subscription fee applies, but with lower transaction fees and advanced reporting tools.
Required Documents
To open an Amazon seller account in the UAE, the following documents are required:
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Valid passport or ID
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Proof of residence (utility bill or bank statement)
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Valid credit card for verification
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Bank account information (international or UAE IBAN)
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If registering as a company: business license and tax registration number (TRN)
Can You Register Without a Company?
Yes, you can start as an individual seller. However, setting up a company provides significant advantages if you plan to sell at higher volumes:
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Ability to issue official invoices
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Faster approval processes with Amazon and banks
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Easier tax compliance with a TRN number
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The option to open a UAE-based bank account
Many eCommerce entrepreneurs prefer establishing a Free Zone company in Dubai due to its cost-effectiveness and speed.
Step-by-Step Amazon UAE Registration Process
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Go to Amazon Seller Central UAE at sellercentral.amazon.ae.
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Enter your email address and create a password.
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Choose whether to register as an individual or professional seller.
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Upload your documents including ID, proof of address, and bank details.
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Verify your credit card (Amazon will make a small authorization charge).
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Add store details and select your product categories.
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Wait for approval, which typically takes 5–7 business days.
Using Amazon FBA
Most sellers in the UAE use Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon).
Benefits include:
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Storing products in Amazon’s local warehouses
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Amazon handling packing, shipping, and delivery
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Amazon managing customer service and returns
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Faster delivery, leading to higher customer satisfaction
Popular Product Categories
Best-selling categories in Amazon UAE include:
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Electronics
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Fashion and apparel
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Beauty and personal care
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Jewelry and accessories
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Home and living products
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Sports equipment
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Toys and baby products
Tax and Legal Requirements
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No corporate income tax in the UAE
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Only 5% VAT applies
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VAT registration (TRN) is mandatory for sellers exceeding AED 375,000 in annual revenue
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Amazon provides support with VAT reporting
Strategies for Success on Amazon UAE
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Write product descriptions in both English and Arabic
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Optimize listings using Amazon SEO and relevant keywords
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Provide fast shipping and responsive customer service
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Use Amazon PPC (Pay Per Click) advertising campaigns
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Be transparent with return and refund policies
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Increase brand awareness through social media and influencer marketing
Advantages
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Low tax burden (only 5% VAT)
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Wealthy customer base
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Reliable Amazon logistics infrastructure
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Access to the Middle Eastern eCommerce market
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Opportunity to build a global brand presence