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E-commerce · Free zone company formation + VAT registration

IFZA E-Commerce Licence — Solo Founder Setup in 12 Days

Timeline: 12 business days to licence; VAT TRN within 6 weeks of threshold

Challenge

First-time founder selling consumer goods online needed a low-cost licence with visa quota and clarity on when VAT registration becomes mandatory.

Approach

  1. Compared IFZA vs mainland using our setup calculator — IFZA fit for overseas-fulfilment model with UAE warehousing planned in year two.
  2. Prepared MOA, passport copies, and business plan for IFZA submission.
  3. Opened corporate bank account with trade licence and shareholder resolutions.
  4. Monitored turnover against AED 375,000 VAT threshold; registered on EmaraTax when 12-month supplies crossed mandatory limit.

Outcome

Licensed IFZA company with one investor visa, operational bank account, and VAT TRN — founder focused on product while KPM handled PRO and filing calendar.

AED ~18,500 all-in
Year-one setup cost
21 days
Licence to bank account
Completed before first return due
VAT registration

Last verified: June 2026

Fees and rules traced to official UAE authorities. KPM Global review cadence: monthly or on FTA/GDRFA updates.