How to Set Up Stripe for UAE Free Zone Company 2026
Stripe is one of the most popular payment processors for online businesses. Here is the 2026 guide on setting up Stripe with a UAE free zone company.
In this guide:
Does Stripe Support UAE Companies?
Yes — Stripe supports UAE-incorporated companies since 2023. Stripe UAE allows:
- Accepting payments from global customers in multiple currencies
- UAE AED settlements directly to UAE bank accounts
- USD, EUR, GBP settlements via Stripe multi-currency accounts
Requirements to Set Up Stripe UAE
- Valid UAE trade licence (free zone or mainland)
- UAE business bank account (for payouts)
- UAE company owner passport and Emirates ID
- Website with Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, Refund Policy
- Description of business and products/services
Step-by-Step Stripe UAE Setup
- Go to stripe.com/ae and create a new account
- Select “United Arab Emirates” as your business country
- Enter UAE trade licence details
- Upload supporting documents (trade licence, passport, Emirates ID)
- Add UAE business bank account for payouts (IBAN format)
- Complete Stripe’s identity verification (usually instant for UAE companies with clean documentation)
- Go live: Start accepting payments
Which UAE Free Zone Companies Can Use Stripe?
Stripe UAE accepts most UAE free zone company types including IFZA, DMCC, RAKEZ, SPC, and others. However, Stripe may request additional documentation for:
- High-risk business activities (gambling, crypto, adult content — these are also not permitted in UAE free zones)
- Companies with multiple UBO (ultimate beneficial owners) in jurisdictions with high AML risk
Stripe UAE Fees
- Standard UAE card rate: 2.9% + AED 1.00 per transaction
- International cards: Additional 1.5% fee
- AMEX: Additional 0.8% fee