In case a company wishes to import or export goods into or from Dubai, it needs to be register with Dubai Customs and obtain a Customs Client Code for the clearing of goods. In order to be granted the Customs Client Code by Dubai Customs, the company must have been duly incorporated in the UAE and have a relevant business license.

The validity of the Customs Client Code is one year, and it can be renewed after the Business License is renewed every year. Those who wish to be granted a Customs Client Code must apply through the Dubai Trade portal. This is electronically generated, and requires the following documents to be included as part of the application.

The applicant should not import or export any banned items into or from the United Arab Emirates. Certain items like medicines, pets, alcohol, tobacco, and food items are on a restricted list, requiring pre-approval to import them in to the United Arab Emirates; while the import or export of items like publications that contradict the values of Islam are downright prohibited. Some technical equipment, like satellite phones and listening or recording devices, also find their place on the restricted list.

Apart from the Customs Client Code, you will also require an Export License to export anything from the UAE, or an import license if you plan to import anything into the UAE.

Exporting Goods from the UAE

If you are an exporter – that is to say, exports are your primary business activity, then the Export License is the relevant Business License you need to attach along with your application for a Customs Client Code. When you are exporting something from the UAE, you need to submit all the relevant documentation and pay the requisite fees before you can obtain an Export Declaration Certificate. Once you receive this Export Declaration Certificate, this needs to be presented to the Customs officials at the seaport / airport, along with your permit if you are exporting something on the restricted list. You also need to show a sales invoice that contains the description of the goods being exported, as well as their quantity and value.

Importing Goods into the UAE

If you are an importer – that is to say, exports are your primary business activity, then the Import License is the relevant Business License you need to attach along with your application for a Customs Client Code. However, if you are a trader and are importing goods for sale in the United Arab Emirates, your Trading License will do.

When you are importing something into the UAE, you need to submit all the necessary documentation, pay the requisite charges in including Customs duties as applicable, and obtain an Import Declaration Certificate which needs to be presented at the port of entry. Once the Customs officials at the seaport / airport authenticate the Import Declaration Certificate, you can take delivery of your consignment.

You also need to show them the Certificate of Origin. A copy of the invoice that shows you are the intended recipient should also be presented to the Customs officials. The invoice should contain the total weight of the consignment as well as the quantity and the value of the goods imported into the country. Additionally, you must have an import permit in case the goods fall under the restricted category. Documentation specifying the HS code of each different item must also be produced before Customs.

If you think applying for a Customs Client Code or an Export / Import License is too much of a hassle, you can entrust everything to us. We will help you with the all the documentation and oversee the application process. We have years of experience assisting clients obtain Customs Client Codes as well as Export / Import Licenses.

Dubai Freezones

Sharjah Freezones

Other Freezones

Corporate Tax

VAT Services

Customs RegistrationUAE

Exporting Goods from the UAE

Importing Goods into the UAE

Request for OurFree Consultation

Have a question? get in touch with us

Get started with your business needs, we reach out with free and qualified guidance

Call us today : +971 50 483 6190

Why Us?

Customised Solutions

Experienced Consultants

Hassle-Free Procedure

Multiple Payment Options

Address

Say Hello

Working Hours

Business Setup

Licensing

Accounting & Tax