Launching an online store here? Follow this Shopify store setup guide for the UAE to configure currency, taxes, payments and delivery properly.
1. Create Your Store and Choose a Plan
Sign up, pick a plan that fits your volume and add your brand details. Choose a fast, mobile-first theme or a custom theme from our Shopify developers in Dubai.
2. Set Currency, Region and VAT
Set AED as your store currency, configure UAE tax settings per current VAT rules and add legal pages (terms, privacy, returns). Confirm tax details with your accountant.
3. Add Products
Write unique descriptions, optimise images, add variants and collections, and include SEO titles and meta descriptions for every product.
4. Connect Payment Methods
Offer cards, Apple Pay and buy-now-pay-later providers such as Tabby and Tamara, subject to provider approval and availability. Cash on delivery remains popular in the region; decide whether to enable it.
5. Configure Shipping
Set zones for Dubai, other emirates and GCC, with flat or weight-based rates. Connect couriers such as Aramex or local last-mile providers and offer same-day delivery where possible.
6. Add an Arabic Storefront
Enable multiple languages with proper RTL support and translated product content.
7. Set Up Analytics and Marketing
Install Google Analytics, Meta Pixel and Conversions API, and connect Google Merchant Center. Launch with Google Shopping and Meta catalogue ads.
8. Test Before Launch
Place test orders, check emails, mobile speed and tracking.
Choosing a platform? Read WordPress vs Shopify for UAE businesses.