Question 1

Do I need to register for VAT before launch?

Accepted Answer

Only if your taxable supplies will exceed AED 375,000 in 12 months — but voluntary registration from AED 187,500 is sensible for any serious e-commerce launch, since input VAT recovery alone often justifies it. We test this with you before launch.

Question 2

Should I accept cash on delivery?

Accepted Answer

If you're targeting mass UAE consumers, yes — COD is still 20–35% of orders for many categories. The trade-off is failed deliveries and refused orders. We design the COD flow with a deposit or partial card capture to limit losses.

Question 3

How does shipping pricing work?

Accepted Answer

Most stores either flat-rate (AED 15–30 within UAE), free above a threshold (AED 200), or live-rated through the courier API. We model the impact on margin with you before you set the policy.

Question 4

What's the typical conversion rate for a UAE store?

Accepted Answer

Healthy is 1.5–3% for general retail and 0.5–1.5% for considered purchases. We benchmark you against your category and tune through structured CRO sprints after launch.

Question 5

Can you work with us if we don't live in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most of our clients are based outside the UAE when they first engage us. We sign and onboard remotely, collect documents through a secure portal, and only need you in person for steps that the authorities require, such as biometrics for your residency visa.