An Import/Export License in the UAE is an official government permit that allows businesses to legally buy goods from other countries (import) or sell goods to other countries (export). This license is required by law for any company that wants to trade internationally from the UAE.
Purpose: It authorizes a business to conduct import and export activities, which include bringing goods into the UAE from abroad or sending locally produced goods to other countries.
Issuing Authority: The license is typically issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the relevant emirate for mainland businesses (for reference: Department of Economic Development | Abu Dhabi DED), or by the respective free zone authority for businesses operating within a free zone.
Any business or individual in the UAE that wants to legally import or export goods must have an import/export license. This requirement applies to:
Without this license, businesses cannot register with UAE Customs, get the required import/export code, or legally move goods across UAE borders. The license is also necessary for customs clearance and issuing official trade documents.
The UAE offers several types of import/export licenses designed to meet different business needs and trading requirements. The main types of import/export licenses in the UAE are:
The most common license for import/export businesses, allowing trading of a wide range of goods including import, export, and distribution under one license. Available for both mainland and free zone companies.
Issued by free zone authorities, this license allows 100% foreign ownership and is perfect for businesses focused on international trade. It offers tax benefits and simplified customs processes, but direct sales to the UAE mainland may require a local distributor or agent.
For businesses importing goods to sell online, either within the UAE or internationally. This license suits digital traders using the UAE’s logistics infrastructure.
For companies involved in manufacturing or processing goods, these licenses cover importing raw materials and exporting finished products. They are issued for specific activities and may need additional approvals
Each license type matches the business activity and location (mainland or free zone), and extra permits may be required for regulated goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, or restricted items.
Obtaining an import/export license in the UAE requires following a systematic process that ensures legal compliance and proper registration with all relevant authorities.
Set up your business as a legal entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) on the mainland or a Free Zone Company. Your choice depends on your business needs, ownership requirements, and preferred jurisdiction within the UAE.
Choose and register a unique trade name that complies with UAE naming regulations and reflects your business activities. The name must be approved by the relevant authority and cannot conflict with existing registered businesses.
Submit your application to the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or to the relevant free zone authority for free zone operations. Ensure your license specifically covers import/export activities in its scope.
Gather and submit essential documents including:
Register your company with the local Chamber of Commerce to facilitate trade operations and gain access to business support services, networking opportunities, and official recognition within the business community.
Obtain customs registration and apply for an Import/Export Code from the UAE Federal Customs Authority or relevant emirate’s customs department. This mandatory code is required for all international trade transactions and shipments.
Pay the required fees for trade license and customs registration, which vary by emirate and business structure. If trading in regulated goods, secure additional permits from competent authorities for restricted items like food or pharmaceuticals.
Following these steps ensures your business is fully licensed and compliant with UAE trade regulations, enabling you to legally conduct import/export operations
To successfully obtain an import/export license in the UAE, businesses must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents for legal compliance and regulatory approval.
Document | Purpose/Details |
Trade License | Legal authorization to conduct import/export business activities |
Passport Copies of Shareholders/Owners | Identity verification for all business owners and partners |
Emirates ID of Local Sponsor | Required for mainland businesses with a UAE national sponsor |
Memorandum of Association (MOA) | Company formation document for mainland companies |
Tenancy Agreement (Office/Warehouse) | Proof of business premises and operational address |
Company Registration Application Form | Official application for business setup and registration |
Commercial Invoice | Details buyer, seller, product information, value, and description for each shipment |
Packing List | Itemized list of goods including weights, packaging details, and serial numbers |
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill | Issued by carrier, confirms shipment details and destination |
Certificate of Origin | Confirms product’s country of manufacture, issued by Chamber of Commerce |
Import/Export Declaration | Customs document containing HS codes and item values |
Additional documents that may be required:
Having these documents properly prepared and organized ensures a smooth application process and full compliance with UAE customs and trade regulations.
The cost of obtaining an import/export license in the UAE varies depending on the emirate, business structure, and specific requirements. Here are the main cost ranges based on recent data:
Location/Type | Typical Cost Range (AED) | Notes |
Dubai Mainland | 13,500 – 28,500 | Includes trade license, virtual office, import/export code |
Dubai Free Zones | 12,500 – 30,000 | Varies by free zone (e.g., JAFZA, DMCC, DAFZA) |
RAK (Ras Al Khaimah) | 12,500 – 30,000 | Cost structure differs by emirate |
Import/Export Code | ~199 (registration fee) | Customs code required for all import/export transactions |
Additional costs to consider:
These figures are estimates and can change based on your business activities, chosen jurisdiction, and any additional approvals or permits required for specific goods.
Import/export businesses in the UAE must comply with a comprehensive set of regulations and legal requirements to operate legally and efficiently.
Non-compliance can result in fines, shipment delays, or legal action. Staying updated on changing regulations and using the digital customs system is essential for smooth operations in the UAE’s dynamic trade environment.
Validity: Import/export licenses are valid for one year and require annual renewal to maintain legal business operations.
Renewing your import/export license in the UAE involves a straightforward process that must be completed annually to ensure continuous legal operations.
Verify your current license status and ensure all documents are up to date.
Gather essential documents including valid tenancy contract (Ejari certificate) with at least one month remaining validity, copy of current/previous trade license, completed renewal application form, passport copies of all partners/shareholders, and updated Memorandum of Association if changes occurred.
Submit the renewal application and pay the renewal fees, which vary by emirate and business activity.
Submit the customs code renewal application online via the customs portal and pay the required fee.
Completing these renewal steps on time ensures your business maintains legal compliance and avoids operational disruptions. The online renewal system makes the process more convenient, while the grace period provides flexibility for businesses to complete their renewals without immediate penalties.
Grace Period: Dubai Customs offers a 60-day grace period after the customs code expires, allowing businesses to continue importing/exporting goods during this time.
Consequences of Non-Renewal: Failure to renew on time can result in penalties, suspension of business activities, and inability to clear goods through customs.
Online Renewal: Both trade license and customs code renewals can be completed online through respective government portals for efficiency and convenience.
Renewing both your trade license and customs registration on time is essential for uninterrupted import/export operations in the UAE.
Obtaining an import/export license in the UAE is a structured process that unlocks international trade opportunities. By following the proper steps, preparing the necessary documents, and maintaining compliance with regulations, businesses can operate successfully in the UAE’s thriving trade environment.
Remember to renew your license annually and stay updated with changing regulations to ensure smooth, uninterrupted operations.
Yes, free zone businesses enjoy zero customs duty for goods within the zone, but must process customs documents for any transfer to the mainland or other zones.
Businesses must comply with customs regulations, obtain special permits for restricted goods, register for VAT if required, and maintain accurate records for all transactions.
Yes, but you must obtain special permits from the relevant authorities for restricted or controlled items, and submit these with your customs.
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