Selling on Noon is one of the fastest ways for UAE businesses to reach millions of local and regional customers. With its massive marketplace reach across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, Noon offers sellers access to active buyers and robust logistics. But before you start listing products and scaling your business, there’s a critical legal question you must answer: Do you need a license to sell on Noon in the UAE?
In this blog, we’ll break down everything from the exact license requirements and documentation to the tax and compliance factors you must consider before launching your Noon store. We’ll also explain how professional help like our Noon seller account management services can make the process seamless, especially if you’re new to marketplaces or focused on growth. If you’re still exploring how Noon works, don’t forget to check our detailed blog on how to sell on Noon for step-by-step setup guidance.
Do You Need a License to Sell on Noon in UAE?
Yes! you must have a valid commercial registration or trade license to sell on Noon in the UAE. Noon requires every seller operating in its marketplace to be a legally registered business entity with approved documentation that proves the legitimacy of the business. Without such documentation, Noon will not approve your seller account or allow you to list products for sale.
This requirement applies to local sellers based in the UAE as well as international sellers looking to list products in Noon’s Gulf region marketplaces. Your license must be active, valid, and correctly aligned with the types of products you intend to sell.
Types of Licenses Accepted by Noon
When setting up your Noon seller account, your license must clearly authorize commerce or trade activity. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of trade registrations accepted:
1. UAE Commercial or Trade License
For most sellers based in the UAE, a commercial trade license typically issued by the relevant Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority is required. This license gives you legal permission to engage in trade and e-commerce activities, including selling goods online.
Your license must:
- Be valid and active (not expired or suspended)
- Include business activities related to selling, trading, or distribution
- Match the legal name and business entity details you use when registering on Noon
Both mainland and free zone licenses can be used as long as they include appropriate trade activities. Free zone licenses are often popular for e-commerce sellers because they allow 100% ownership for foreign investors and fast setup.
2. E-Commerce or Online Trading License
Some free zones issue specific e-commerce licenses or online trading licenses that are pre-configured for internet-based sales. These allow you to sell products through marketplaces like Noon without needing a physical retail location. As long as the license activity covers online selling or commerce, Noon will accept it.
3. VAT Registration (If Applicable)
Value-Added Tax (VAT) registration is required only if your annual revenue exceeds the UAE threshold (currently AED 375,000). Noon allows local sellers who are below the VAT threshold to select “non-VAT registered” during setup, but once your sales exceed the limit, VAT details must be submitted.
For international sellers without a UAE license but a company registered in another country, Noon also allows a non-VAT registered option during legal entity setup, though requirements differ depending on how you fulfill orders to customers.
Required Documents to Sell on Noon UAE
In addition to your trade license or commercial registration, you must prepare several key documents when applying to become a Noon seller:
- Valid Trade License / Commercial Registration – Active and matching your seller account details.
- Valid Identity Proof – Emirates ID (front and back) or passport.
- Bank Account Details – Business bank account information such as a cancelled cheque, statement, or bank letter with your company name.
- VAT Certificate or Declaration (If applicable) – Required if you are VAT-registered; otherwise, you can indicate “non-VAT registered.”
Noon ensures that your legal documents are complete and consistent before allowing you to sell and receive payouts. Keeping everything accurate helps avoid delays during the onboarding process.
Licensing Requirements Explained (Local vs International Sellers)
Local UAE Sellers
If your company is registered in the UAE, Noon requires:
- A legal trade license with relevant activities
- Identity proof linking you or your authorized signatory to the business
- Bank account matching the business name
- VAT information if revenue meets the tax threshold
This ensures you comply with UAE commercial and tax laws while operating as an online seller.
International Sellers (Cross-Border)
International sellers can register with Noon and sell into the UAE or other GCC markets. If your company is registered outside the UAE, Noon’s onboarding tools allow you to submit your foreign business license and identity documents. In such cases:
- VAT requirements depend on whether you store products locally or internationally.
- A trade license from your home country is often sufficient as part of international seller verification.
However, it’s important to confirm specifics with Noon or a professional, as requirements can vary based on shipment model, fulfillment strategy, and bank settlement processes.
Why Licensing is Important for Your Noon Business Growth?
A valid trade license is more than just an entry ticket, it’s a foundation for sustainable growth on Noon and other major marketplaces. With the license in place, you can:
- List more products and categories without restrictions.
- Access promotional tools and marketplace features within Noon’s Seller Lab portal.
- Receive weekly payouts directly into your business bank account.
- Build trust with customers who see you as a legitimate brand.
Without proper licensing, your account may be suspended or restricted, leading to lost sales opportunities and wasted time on setup.
Common Missteps and Compliance Tips
Even if you have a license, Noon can flag your account if:
- Your trade license doesn’t cover trade or sales activities — service-only licenses may be rejected.
- Your bank account details don’t match the legal entity name.
- Licenses are expired or incorrectly filed.
Always double-check your legal documents before submitting them to Noon’s Seller Lab.
How ProCommerce Can Help You Sell on Noon
Getting licensed and compliant is only the first step. Successfully selling on Noon requires operational excellence, from product listing optimization to managing orders, advertising, analytics, and performance.
That’s where ProCommerce steps in.
Our Noon seller account management services are designed to help you:
- Set up and verify your Noon seller account accurately and fast
- Optimize product listings for better search visibility and conversions
- Handle inventory, pricing strategies, and promotions
- Manage logistics and fulfillment workflows
- Monitor performance and growth opportunities
With expert support, you can focus on scaling your brand while we handle the technical, operational, and marketplace compliance details.
Conclusion
Yes, to sell on Noon in the UAE, a valid commercial or trade license is mandatory. Whether you operate locally or internationally, your license must be active, accurately represent your business, and include the right business activities to satisfy Noon’s seller policies.
Once you’re licensed and approved, you’ll be ready to list products, reach a broad audience, and grow your e-commerce presence in the UAE and beyond. For help with strategy, compliance, and day-to-day marketplace execution, get in touch with ProCommerce today!