How to Get Your Business Online in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide
Everything a small UAE business needs to get online — domain, website, Google Business Profile, WhatsApp Business, social media and the first steps to being found on Google.
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Getting your business online in the UAE takes a few days if you do it in the right order. Here's the checklist.
1. Register a domain name
Choose a short name that matches your business. A .ae domain shows you're local, and .com is the global default. Many businesses register both.
2. Get a website
Start with a professional one-page site: what you do, proof, and how to contact you. Our AED 500 website covers this, with WhatsApp, a form, maps and basic SEO.
3. Create your Google Business Profile
It's free, and it's how you appear on Google Maps and in "near me" searches. Add photos, hours, services and your website link, and ask happy customers for reviews.
4. Set up WhatsApp Business
Add your business description, hours, catalogue and a greeting message. Link it from your website and profile.
5. Claim your social profiles
Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or TikTok, depending on your customers. Use the same name, logo and website link everywhere.
6. Get found on Google
- Submit your sitemap in Google Search Console
- Use your city and service in page titles ("Plumber in Al Barsha, Dubai")
- Get listed in relevant UAE directories
- Collect reviews on Google
7. Measure
Track website visits, WhatsApp clicks and calls. Double down on what brings enquiries.
Related: small business website checklist · one-page websites
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