Turning creativity into a profitable business has never been easier in the UAE. With the rise of Noon, Amazon UAE, and Instagram Shops, handmade product sellers are reaching thousands of customers without needing a physical store. Whether you’re into candles, jewelry, crafts, or customized décor, the UAE offers a thriving online market, provided you understand the licenses, costs, and best platforms to sell your products.
If you’re ready to launch your handmade business online, Raes Associates can help you secure the right e-commerce license in UAE and get started without delays. Click here to chat with us instantly.
Why UAE is the Best Market for Handmade Products
Dubai and the wider UAE are known for their love of unique, luxury, and artisanal goods. With an increasing demand for sustainable and personalized products, customers are turning to online platforms to discover new sellers. Many small businesses start from home, selling handmade candles, soaps, or crafts, and then expand into full-fledged e-commerce stores.
The best part? Even expats can open online shops and legally sell handmade products in the UAE with the right trade license.
Do You Need a License to Sell Handmade Products Online in UAE?
Yes, you need a valid e-commerce license in Dubai or other Emirates to sell on Amazon, Noon, or even Instagram. Many first-time sellers think they can sell without registering, but UAE regulations require a business license for all commercial sales.
For Instagram shops or home-based crafts businesses, this means applying for an e-trader license or a general e-commerce license in UAE. The cost varies depending on your chosen jurisdiction, but on average it ranges from AED 5,500 to AED 12,000. You can check our detailed guide here: E-commerce License in the UAE.
Selling on Amazon UAE – Handmade Products
Amazon UAE has become one of the most popular platforms for local sellers. With millions of users across the region, listing your products here gives you unmatched reach.
To sell handmade items on Amazon UAE, you need:
- A valid trade license
- Amazon seller account approval
- Product photos, descriptions, and pricing
Many entrepreneurs ask about costs. On Amazon, sellers typically pay a referral fee of 8%–15% per product plus a monthly subscription fee. While this might seem high, the visibility and trust Amazon provides often outweigh the costs.
If you’re unsure how to get started, read our full guide: How to Sell on Amazon UAE.
Noon UAE – A Growing Marketplace for Handmade Businesses
Noon is giving tough competition to Amazon in the UAE, especially for locally crafted and affordable handmade products. Noon seller registration requires:
- A UAE trade license
- Valid Emirates ID and bank account
- Product listings with high-quality images
Sellers love Noon because it often charges lower commissions than Amazon and supports smaller businesses. If you’re looking for visibility in the UAE and Saudi markets, Noon is a fantastic starting point.
Many forum discussions highlight how small handmade businesses are finding it easier to compete on Noon compared to Amazon, making it an attractive option for new entrepreneurs.
Instagram Shops – Selling Directly to Your Audience
For sellers who want creative control and direct connection with customers, Instagram Shops are powerful. You can showcase your handmade crafts through reels, stories, and posts, and then convert followers into buyers.
However, remember: you still need a license to sell legally, even if sales happen through Instagram DM or WhatsApp. The UAE authorities can penalize unlicensed sellers. That’s why securing a proper license early on ensures you can scale safely.
Many expats start by selling on Instagram before moving to Amazon or Noon once their business grows. This allows them to test products and build a brand identity before investing heavily.
Choosing the Right Platform – Noon, Amazon, or Instagram?
Each platform has its strengths:
- Amazon UAE: Best for large reach and trust, but more competitive and higher fees.
- Noon UAE: Great for small handmade sellers with competitive pricing.
- Instagram Shops: Perfect for building a personal brand and engaging directly with customers.
Many successful UAE entrepreneurs actually combine all three platforms: starting with Instagram for branding, expanding to Noon for local growth, and then scaling to Amazon for regional and global reach.
Steps to Start Selling Handmade Products Online in UAE
Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Choose your niche – candles, crafts, skincare, décor, jewelry, or custom products.
- Apply for an e-commerce license in Dubai/UAE.
- Register your trade name and secure initial approvals.
- Open your online store or register on Amazon/Noon/Instagram.
- Set up payment gateways and logistics partners.
- Market your products through SEO, Instagram ads, and influencer collaborations.
- Scale by expanding across multiple platforms.
At this stage, having an expert like Raes Associates ensures you meet all licensing and compliance requirements, so you can focus on creating while we handle the paperwork. Contact us here today.
Build Your Handmade Brand in UAE
Selling handmade products in the UAE is a profitable and sustainable business opportunity. With platforms like Amazon, Noon, and Instagram, you can build your brand, reach thousands of customers, and grow into a recognized e-commerce business.
Don’t let licensing hold you back. Connect with Raes Associates now and let us help you launch your online handmade shop in UAE the right way.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to get an e-commerce license in UAE?
Costs range from AED 5,500 to AED 12,000 depending on the jurisdiction and scope of your business. - Which platform is better for handmade products—Amazon or Noon?
Amazon offers wider reach, while Noon provides easier entry and lower costs for small businesses. Many sellers use both. - Can I sell on Instagram without a license?
No. All sellers must have a trade license, even if they sell via Instagram DM or WhatsApp. - Is selling handmade products online in UAE profitable?
Yes—due to high demand for unique, luxury, and eco-friendly items, handmade products sell at premium margins. - Can expats open an online handmade shop in UAE?
Yes, expats can apply for an e-commerce license and start selling through UAE platforms legally.
