Many small businesses in the UAE still use a POS that is installed on one computer at the counter. It works – until the computer breaks, the owner wants to check sales from home, or a second branch opens. Cloud POS is the modern alternative. But is it right for your business?
In this guide we compare cloud POS and traditional POS in simple terms.
What is a traditional POS?
A traditional (on-premise) POS is software installed on a computer in your shop. Your data is saved on that computer. Often you pay a large amount upfront for the licence and sometimes for special hardware.
What is a cloud POS?
A cloud POS runs in a web browser. You log in from a PC, tablet or phone, and your data is stored securely online. You usually pay a monthly or yearly subscription that includes updates and support.
Cloud POS vs traditional POS: side by side
Access
- Cloud: check sales, stock and reports from anywhere – at home, on holiday or at another branch.
- Traditional: you must be at the shop computer, or set up remote access.
Data safety and backups
- Cloud: data is backed up online. If a device is lost or broken, log in from another one.
- Traditional: if the computer fails and there is no recent backup, your records can be lost.
Cost
- Cloud: small yearly or monthly fee, usually no big upfront cost.
- Traditional: higher upfront cost, plus paid upgrades and support later.
Updates
- Cloud: new features and fixes arrive automatically.
- Traditional: updates may need a technician or a paid upgrade.
Hardware
- Cloud: works on devices you already have; add a thermal printer and barcode scanner if needed.
- Traditional: may require specific computers or terminals.
Internet
- Cloud: needs an internet connection. In the UAE most shops already have reliable internet, and a mobile hotspot works as a backup.
- Traditional: can work fully offline.
Our view: for most small and medium businesses in the UAE – shops, restaurants, salons, laundries and typing centres – a cloud POS is simpler, safer and cheaper over time. A traditional POS mainly makes sense where there is no reliable internet at all.
Questions to ask before choosing a cloud POS
- Is my data kept separate from other businesses, and can I download it anytime?
- Does it create correct VAT invoices with my TRN?
- Does it support Arabic and English?
- Which printers and barcode scanners does it work with?
- What is the total yearly price, and is there a free trial?
Our cloud POS options
- Business POS Software for UAE shops – for servicing workshops, hardware, paint, electronics and general stores. VAT invoices with TRN, stock, purchases and reports. $150 per year, 15-day free trial.
- Smart POS Manager – for restaurants, groceries, salons, laundries, typing centres, optical, flower, garment and pet shops. Kitchen display, KOT printing and service job tracking. AED 550 per year, 14-day free trial.
Not sure which one fits? Read our guide to POS software with VAT invoicing for UAE shops.
Tell us your business type on WhatsApp +971 58 156 5050 and we will recommend the right POS and set up your free trial.
