Frequently Asked
Questions
Everything you need to know about shopping, delivery, returns, sizing, and selling on The Locals.
Shopping On The Locals
The essentials of buying from UAE independent brands.
What exactly is The Locals?
The Locals is a curated marketplace for UAE-born fashion and lifestyle brands. Every brand is reviewed and approved before it can sell, and every product goes through a quality check before it appears on the site — so what you see is genuinely local and genuinely vetted.
Do I need an account to order?
No. You can check out as a guest with just your email and delivery details. After your order, we send you a secure link so you can claim an account and track everything in one place — but it is entirely optional.
How does the Compare feature work?
Pick any two products from the same category — say, two jackets from two different brands — and see their price, materials, sizes, colours, and stock side by side. It is the easiest way to choose between local makers interpreting the same piece.
Delivery
How pickup-on-demand fulfilment gets your order to you.
Where do you deliver?
Across all 7 UAE Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Al Ain, and Umm Al Quwain. Choose same-day delivery (order before 2PM), standard delivery within 2–3 business days, or free Click & Collect from our hub.
Why does my order come from the brand, not a warehouse?
The Locals runs on pickup-on-demand fulfilment. Brands keep their own stock, and when you order, we send a courier to collect your pieces directly from the brand — usually within 24 hours — then deliver them to you. Fresher stock, and local brands stay in control of their inventory.
How do I track my order?
Every status change triggers an email, and you can track any order at thelocals.ae/track using your order number and checkout email — no account required. Orders move through Confirmed, Pickup Scheduled, Picked Up, Out for Delivery, and Delivered.
Returns & Sizing
Fit, returns, and exchanges — without the fine-print headache.
What is your returns policy?
You have 14 days from delivery to request a return on eligible items in original condition with tags attached. Request it from Account → Returns, and once approved we arrange courier collection from your door. Refunds go to your original payment method after the items are checked.
Can I exchange for a different size?
Yes — we handle exchanges as a return plus a new order, so you do not have to wait. Return the piece that does not fit and order your preferred size whenever you are ready, before it sells out.
How do I know which size to order?
Each brand cuts to its own pattern, so start with the size guide on the product page and the product description for fit notes. Our Size Guides page has full measurement instructions plus clothing and shoe conversion charts.
For Brands
Selling on the platform, commission, and fulfilment.
How do I sell my brand on The Locals?
Apply through the brand application on the site. Our team reviews every application to keep the marketplace curated. Once approved, you receive a secure setup link, complete onboarding, and can start listing products from your brand dashboard.
What commission does The Locals charge?
A flat 20% of the net (pre-VAT) price — you keep 80%. There are no listing fees, subscriptions, or storage fees, and the commission covers courier pickup, delivery, payments, marketing, and customer service. See the Commission & Payouts page for a full breakdown.
Do I need to ship stock to a warehouse?
No. You keep your stock at your own studio or workspace. When an order comes in, we schedule a courier pickup with you — your dashboard shows exactly what to pack and when the courier is coming.