Short answer: start with what you sell and who buys it, then pick a platform, set up payments and delivery, and launch with a small range you can handle well.
1. Decide what you sell and who buys it
Write down the product or service, the customer, the price range, and why a customer would buy from you instead of a bigger store. A small, focused range is easier to photograph, price, ship, and support than a large catalogue.
2. Check the business basics
Confirm the registration and tax rules that apply to your activity with official Egyptian sources before you take money from customers. Rules change, so check them yourself rather than relying on any single guide, including this one.
3. Choose a platform
Three common routes exist: a hosted platform such as Shopify, an Arabic-first platform such as Salla or Zid, or a self-hosted store on WordPress with WooCommerce. The choice depends on your budget, how much control you need, and whether you have a developer. Our platform comparison covers the trade-offs in more detail.
4. Plan payments, including cash on delivery
Many Egyptian customers still pay on delivery, so most stores offer cash on delivery alongside card or wallet payments. Check which gateways and delivery partners your platform supports before you design the checkout. Our cash on delivery guide explains how to reduce failed orders.
5. Plan shipping
Decide your delivery zones, the fee for each zone, and whether you offer free shipping above an order value. Confirm each carrier’s rates and cash-on-delivery terms in writing. Shipping costs that appear only at the last step are a common reason customers leave.
6. Build the store pages that sell
Every product page needs clear photos, the real price, what is included, delivery information, and a simple way to order. Add a contact route the customer trusts, such as a phone number, WhatsApp, and a visible return policy. Our product page checklist lists the details to check before launch.
7. Launch with a checklist
- Test a full order from product page to delivery confirmation.
- Check the store on a phone, because most visitors will use one.
- Confirm the privacy policy, contact details and terms are visible.
- Set up order notifications so no order is missed.
- Track which pages and products bring orders, then improve those first.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to launch? It depends on the platform, the product photos, and how many products you add. Plan for a test period before advertising.
Do I need a developer? Hosted platforms let you start without one. A custom store, or a WooCommerce store with special features, usually needs a developer.
Should I start on a marketplace first? A marketplace gives reach but takes a fee and controls the customer relationship. Many sellers use both, and keep their own store as the main channel.
