Find sales agents in Dubai and the Emirates

For a lot of products working with a local sales agent or with a dedicated sales representative can be a good solution.

Especially if you have a customized product or service, or you want to work with a number of resellers in the country, an agent can be the one connecting these parties to your organization abroad.

Agents can be individuals, but I often recommend to work with established companies who already have a good network and where you are not dependent on just one person.

Set up your sales force in Dubai and the Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven emirates in the Arabian Peninsula, has a population of about 9.9 million as of 2023. It is known for its oil wealth, futuristic architecture, and international business hubs.

The UAE’s economy, with a GDP per capita of around $43,000 USD in 2023, is highly diversified. Although oil and gas remain significant, sectors like finance, tourism, real estate, and aviation play major roles. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are key drivers of economic growth.

Dubai and UAE business etiquette

Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan business centres in the Middle East, and a world trade hub. It is relatively easy to do business in Dubai compared to other Middle Eastern countries; Dubai ranks an impressive 22nd in the ease of doing business among 189 countries surveyed in the world.

Agent, local office or distance selling?

An agent sells in your name for a commission and has limited room to negotiate. A local office gives you full control, but costs staff and facilities. Distance selling works when your product can be delivered and serviced from abroad.

Be careful with agent contracts. In many countries agents are well protected by law, and ending the relationship can mean compensating the income you take away. Agree territory, targets, commission and termination before you start.

Do you need help in Dubai and the Emirates?

Our service providers are local specialists. They know the market, the regulations and the parties that matter, and they can support you with the steps on this page.

Ask a professional

Finding a sales agent in Dubai and the Emirates in three steps

Step 1

Describe the role

Decide what the agent does: generate leads only, or close deals and handle after-sales too. Set the territory, the type of customer and the commission.

Step 2

Find and screen

Prefer an established agency over a single individual. Check which brands they carry, whether those compete with you, and ask two of their clients for a reference.

Step 3

Contract and manage

Put targets, reporting, commission and termination in writing, and plan regular contact. An agent who hears nothing from you sells nothing for you.