
Almost 4 billion people scroll on Meta platforms everyday. Over 58% of TikTok users shop directly on the platform.
Realistically, you only need a 100 to buy your products to start seeing real traction.
If you want to start selling on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok — you’re stepping into the world’s largest digital shopfronts. Your customers are already scrolling, tapping, and buying in real-time.
But what’s the catch?
To start your social selling journey in the UAE, you need a valid trade license to go live. And the best part? Meydan Free Zone makes that easy with fast setup, full support, and zero paperwork.
This guide will cover everything from setup, regulations, and how to turn views into likes Instagram and Facebook the right way.
Why Social Media Selling Works in Dubai
Let’s be real. Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have become digital malls, where people scroll, stop, and purchase, without ever leaving the app.
So, the real question is: how do you capitalise on this and turn your posts into products?
Whether you have an Instagram business account in UAE, or are a Facebook Commerce Manager, or even are a merchant on TikTok Shop, in-app tools make it easy for you:
- Tag your products in posts, reels, and stories
- Create a space to mix sales with entertainment
- Run targeted ad campaigns that hit exactly the right target audience
- Create curated product collections on your Shop
- Live selling and shoppable videos with TikTok and Instagram
- Allow customers to ‘DM to order’ through linked WhatsApp or Messenger
But what’s different in 2025?
- No more in-app checkout: Meta’s phasing out the ability to sell directly on the app. You’ll need external links or an app like WhatsApp to take orders.
- An e-commerce license is a requirement: If you’re doing social media selling in the UAE, it’s treated like any other business, which means you need an e-commerce license to even sell through Instagram DMs or stories in UAE.
- Newer regulations: If you’re giving any advice, or promoting products on social media, especially in the finance and investment space, you’ll need special approval from the Securities and Commodities Association (SCA) in UAE.
- TikTok Shop is growing fast: Most users on TikTok use the app as the go-to for product information, and UAE-based merchants are now eligible to make use of this powerful marketing channel, but only with a valid trade license.
What You Need To Start Selling in the UAE
Selling courses? Skincare? Or handmade crafts? Regardless of what you’re selling on social media in the UAE, you need a proper
setup.
- A business license: Social selling requires a valid trade license. At Meydan Free Zone, we offer a multitude of options like a complete e-commerce license , which you can fast-track with Fawri – perfect for creators or solopreneurs. This is how you get started.
- Bank account and Emirates ID: Helps with Meta verification, smoother payments, and building customer relationships.
- Commerce Manager or TikTok Seller Center setup: You need Meta’s or TikTok’s backend which seamlessly connects your Facebook page, Instagram business account or TikTok Shop to the product catalog.
We make it simple from day one.
Meydan Free Zone’s e-commerce license gives you full legal coverage to sell across all platforms, whether you’re selling a service, or building a product brand. And if you want speed and flexibility, we’ve got you covered with Fawri. No redtape. Fully online. Under an hour.
Your Social Commerce Setup Made Simple
Here’s how you can launch your Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok Shop from UAE:
What Influencers Need To Know About Social Media Selling in UAE
Whether you’re recommending products online, or offering financial advice on your feed, your content is commerce.
Here’s how UAE makes sure it’s regulated:
With a license from a Meydan Free Zone, you can bundle upto three activity groups all under one license. Whether you’re a creator, consultant, or finfluencer, our setup is a launchpad for those who do it all.
Start Your Social Commerce Journey with Meydan Free Zone
Are you ready to turn scrolls into sales?
With Meydan Free Zone, you can launch your Facebook or TikTok Shop setup, and Instagram Shopping in Dubai, legally in under 60 minutes. With a 100% digital platform tailored to creators, sellers, and consultants who are ready to launch fast, you get complete ownership and flexible activities for your business as you grow.
Sell smarter. Scale smarter.
FAQs
1. Do I need a trade license to sell on Instagram in the UAE?
Yes. Even if you're selling via DMs, stories, or lives, UAE regulations require a valid e-commerce license. Meydan Free Zone offers fast, digital licensing so you can sell legally on Instagram and Facebook within 60 minutes.
2. What kind of license do I need to sell on social media?
You need a UAE e-commerce license that covers online product or service sales. Meydan Free Zone offers flexible options including the fast-tracked Fawri license—perfect for creators, solopreneurs, or small brands looking to start in under an hour.
3. Do I need a trade or e-commerce license to sell on TikTok in the UAE?
Yes. Selling on TikTok Shop requires a valid e-commerce license, and Meydan Free Zone provides fast-track licensing if you’re a digital seller.
4. Can influencers legally earn money without a license in the UAE?
No. If you're promoting products, sharing affiliate links, or selling digital content, you need a trade license. Influencer activity is regulated in the UAE and must be licensed under commercial law to avoid fines.
5. Can I run multiple online businesses under one license?
Yes! With Meydan Free Zone, you can bundle up to three activity groups in one license—like content creation, e-commerce, and consulting—giving you flexibility to grow and diversify legally.
6. How long does it take to get an e-commerce license in Dubai?
With Meydan Free Zone’s Fawri license, you can get fully licensed in under 60 minutes. It’s 100% online, paperless, and designed to get you selling quickly across Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms.
7. Can I sell physical and digital products on Instagram with this license?
Yes. Whether you're selling handmade goods, skincare, e-books, or courses, your Meydan Free Zone license covers both physical and digital sales made through social media.
8. Do I need approval from UAE authorities to post sponsored financial content?
Yes. If you’re promoting financial services or giving investment advice, you must register with the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and hold a relevant trade license. Violations can lead to serious fines.
9. Is TikTok Shop available in the UAE?
Yes, TikTok Shop has officially expanded into the UAE market. UAE-based businesses with valid licenses can register and sell.