Import & Export License Registration

The Federal Customs Authority of the UAE establishes the country’s customs rules. Each emirate also has its own customs departments. Customs offices are found at airports, seaports, and land borders. An Import-Export License in the UAE costs approximately AED 24,683 and up for mainland operations. This license is essential for companies looking to engage in international trade from a base in the UAE. Whether operating in mainland areas or free trade zones, obtaining a trade license is the initial requirement to conduct import and export activities in the UAE.

To obtain an import-export license in the UAE, you typically need to follow these steps:

1. Choose Business Activity: Decide on the type of import-export activities you intend to conduct.
2. Select Company Type: Determine whether you want to set up in the mainland or in a free zone, which affects licensing requirements.
3. Register Trade Name: Reserve and register a unique trade name for your business.
4. Apply for Initial Approval: Apply to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority for initial approval.
5. Lease Office Space: Arrange for office space as per the requirements of the chosen jurisdiction.
6. Prepare Documents: Gather required documents such as passport copies, proof of address, business plan, and NOC (No Objection Certificate) if applicable.
7. Submit Application: Complete and submit the application form along with the necessary documents.
8. Payment of Fees: Pay the required fees for the license issuance and processing.
9. Receive License: Upon approval, receive your import-export license from the DED or the free zone authority.
10. Additional Steps: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to apply for additional permits or approvals (e.g., import permits for specific goods).

Compliance: Ensure compliance with all UAE regulations related to import-export activities, including customs and trade laws.

The Import Export Code (IEC) in UAE is a necessary document for businesses to import and export goods. It’s issued by the Customs Department of the emirate where the company is registered. To apply for the IEC in Dubai or any other emirate, a valid trading license specifying the business activity is required. This code allows companies to conduct global import-export operations from the UAE.

To get an import-export license in Dubai, foreign investors need to register their company as a trading or general trading business with the Dubai Economy or a Free Trade Zone. They also need to register with Dubai Customs and obtain an Import Export Code to trade globally.

Businesses in Dubai need valid trade licenses from specific authorities to operate. The cost for an import-export license in Dubai starts at around AED 25,232 for mainland operations. Dubai offers extensive opportunities for import-export and trading companies, driven by local demand for various goods like clothes, household items, and food.

Dubai’s robust logistics, business infrastructure, and expanding opportunities make it an attractive market for import-export businesses.

Import-export registration in Dubai involves registering a trading company with Dubai Customs to obtain an Import Export Code. This code is essential for importing and exporting goods to and from the UAE.

To get the Import Export Code, investors need to submit required documents like the Trade License and passport copies. There is a fee for obtaining this code.

After submitting documents and paying the fee, authorities will review the application. Dubai Customs will then issue the Import Export Code, typically valid for one year and renewable.

The Trade License must be active to apply for the Import Export Code. Dubai Customs oversees this registration process across different Emirates and Free Zones, with slight variations in costs.

The approximate cost for Import Export Code registration in Dubai is AED 500, providing investors with a specific Customs Code for their trading operations.

The cost of an import-export license in Dubai is around AED 25,232 and may vary in real time. Connect with our team for more details about the exact cost of an import-export business license in Dubai.

The Import Export License Cost in Dubai includes the general trading license cost, virtual office contract, application form, and import-export code fee. For investors requiring a physical office setup, the tenancy contract for a year is to be prepared based on the annual rent for the desired office space.

Hence, the cost of an import-export license covers all aspects of obtaining a general trading license, applying for import-export code, and taking an office space to successfully conduct global import-export operations from Dubai.

1.  Names (Up to 3) to get the trade name reserved
2.   Company Registration Application Form
3.   Passport Copy and Photograph of the owner

• The following documents are required to get an import-export code in Dubai:
  •   Trade license and Memorandum of Association of the newly formed company
  •   Passport Copy of the Owner
  •   Owners Visa Copy (if UAE residence visa is stamped)
  •   Tenancy Agreement of the Office/Warehouse
  •   Request Letter for the Import Export Code
  •   Import Export Code Fee Payment

 FLINTHAM MACKENZIE will guide you through the entire process of setting up your company and acquiring the import-export license and code in the UAE. Our team of experienced consultants will handle the application process, communicate with government authorities, and ensure you obtain the necessary licenses efficiently.  FLINTHAM MACKENZIE aims to secure your import-export license quickly and cost-effectively.