1. Understand Your Business Type and Needs

Different businesses require different POS functionalities. A retail store needs barcode scanning and inventory management, while a restaurant may require table management, kitchen display systems, and order tracking.

Ask yourself:

• Do I need multi-store or multi-terminal support?

• Will my staff need mobile POS capabilities?

• Do I require integration with accounting, CRM, or eCommerce platforms?

Tailoring your POS to your industry ensures smoother daily operations and better customer experiences.

2. Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise POS

Many UAE businesses are shifting toward cloud-based POS systems due to their flexibility and lower upfront costs. A cloud POS allows you to:

• Access reports remotely

• Manage multiple locations

• Get automatic software updates

• Scale easily as your business grows

On-premise systems may offer more control and security for large enterprises, but they come with higher setup and maintenance costs.

3. Local Compliance and Tax Features (UAE VAT)

Make sure the POS system is compliant with UAE VAT regulations and can generate FATOORAH-compliant invoices. A locally developed or regionally adapted POS system is more likely to support:

• VAT configuration

• Arabic/English billing

• Local payment gateway integrations

• FTA-compliant reporting

4. Ease of Use and Training

A POS system should be intuitive and easy for your staff to learn. Look for:

• A user-friendly interface

• Quick navigation for sales transactions

• Multilingual options (Arabic/English)

• Support for touchscreen terminals or tablets

Also, check if the provider offers training and local support in the UAE, which can save you time and reduce operational downtime.

5. Key Features to Look For

The ideal POS system should offer more than just sales processing. Key features include:

• Inventory and stock management

• Real-time sales reports and analytics

• Loyalty program and customer database

• Employee management (shift tracking, roles, permissions)

• Multiple payment options (cash, card, digital wallets)

• Offline functionality for uninterrupted billing

6. Integration Capabilities

Choose a POS system that integrates well with your existing tools—whether it’s an ERP system, an accounting platform like Tally or QuickBooks, or a CRM system. This ensures data flows smoothly between departments, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

7. Customer Support and Local Presence

Working with a UAE-based provider means:

• Faster response times

• Localized updates

• Better understanding of the market and regulatory needs

Make sure your POS vendor offers reliable after-sales support, preferably with phone, email, and on-site service options.