How to Get an Import-Export License in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide

The United Arab Emirates has turned out to be among the most critical trading channels that
export to East Asia from Europe. It is geographically strategically located and a major player in
the global import, export, and re-export business activities; and it is this kind of trend that it has
been increasingly carrying out its business on. But if you want to tap into this multi-million-
dollar business, obtaining an import-export license might be your ticket to the golden
opportunity. That is one of the most coveted permits by all foreign investors in the UAE.

Do you know how to get an import-export license in Dubai in 2024? Well, we have a detailed
guide that you can follow.

Key Takeaways

• Dubai is a key global trade hub linking Europe and East Asia.
• Free zones offer tax advantages for businesses.
• License costs start at AED 16,575.

Import/Export Business in Dubai

Dubai imports refer to the importation of goods from any corner of the world to the UAE. Since
there is diversity in people, the quality products are always in demand, and therefore huge
business opportunities result. In exports, Dubai involves shipping products whether locally
manufactured or re-exported to other countries or throughout the free trade zones of the UAE.

Some of the key products involved in Dubai’s import-export business include:

• Crude and refined oil
• Diamonds, gold, and various types of jewelry
• Automobiles and transportation equipment
• Broadcasting and media equipment

Not sure how to start import export business in Dubai? Emifast’s experts can guide you from
company formation to accounting.

How to Start Import-Export Business in Dubai

The process to start an import-export business in Dubai involves two main stages: obtaining a
trade license and registering with customs to carry out import-export activities. The steps are
similar whether you’re setting up in Dubai’s Mainland or Free Zone jurisdictions.

Stage 1: Obtaining a Trade License

1. Reserve a trade name (choose from three shortlisted options).
2. Select the business activity relevant to your trade.
3. Choose a local sponsor or opt for 100% foreign ownership in the mainland.
4. Arrange office space and warehouse and finalize the rental agreement.
5. Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA), which outlines company structure and
   activities (Emifast can assist with this).
6. Submit the required documents to the Dubai Economy for approval.
7. Make the necessary fee payments and obtain your business license.
8. Apply for an investor visa and open a corporate bank account.

Stage 2: Customs Registration

1. Register the company with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
2. Register with Dubai Customs to obtain your Import-Export Code.
3. Begin importing and exporting goods globally from Dubai.

By following these steps, you can successfully obtain your import-export license. Emifast will
assist you in handling the entire process, ensuring it’s completed efficiently and at the lowest
possible cost.

How to Get an Import-Export License in Dubai

To establish an import-export business in Dubai, registration at the Dubai Customs requires an
import-export license. The customs office has several e-services which simplify the import-
export business, and one of them is the Mirsal 2 system related to declarations and clearances.
Import-export commodities are supposed to get cleared at customs, but there are restricted
products that cannot be imported or exported.

1. Export License Procedure

If a business owner intends to export locally produced or manufactured goods to another country
or within the various free zones across the UAE, they must obtain an Export License.

Key Requirements for an Export License

1. The business must have a valid Export Declaration Certificate issued by the licensing
   authority, or alternatively, the Instructions of the Declaration of Goods (IDG) application.
2. Special permits are needed from regulatory bodies if the exported goods fall under the
   restricted or prohibited category.
3. A sales invoice from the company is required, detailing the description, quantity, and
   value of each item being exported.

Steps to Obtain an Export License

• Submit the necessary documents at the customs office.
• Pay the Declaration registration fee at the customs office.
• Receive the Customs Declaration Certificate.

To maximize profits and ensure long-term success, consider setting up your business in a Free
Zone. For Free Zone Company Formation, consult Emifast’s experts.

Import License Procedure

If a business owner plans to import goods into the UAE from overseas, an import license is
required to keep the business operations lawful.

Key Requirements for an Import License

• An Import permit with special authorization for any goods that fall under the prohibited category.
• A detailed invoice outlining the total quantity and value of the imported products.
• A Certificate of Origin approved by the Chamber of Commerce, certifying the source of the goods.
• A document specifying the weight, packaging, and HS codes of all items intended for import.

Steps to Obtain an Import License

1. The importer must submit the Bill of Lading.
2. The shipping agent will issue the delivery order 3-4 days prior to the vessel’s arrival.
   Cargo clearance must be completed before this date.
3. Submit the Import Declaration form online and clear any applicable payments. After
   payment confirmation, the company will receive a Customs Import Declaration
   Certificate.
4. Dubai Customs may review the documents at any point.
5. Once the importer has got the clearance from the Customs, he can hire a transport
   company to deliver his cargo.
6. If the cargo is picked up for further checking, then it goes on to another level of checking
   by the concerned authorities and only when clearance is received from them, the goods
   will be allowed to be released to the importer.

In most cases, it is a complicated and time-consuming procedure to obtain an import-export
license. To set up a trading company, an import-export license is always needed by businesses.
For this purpose, the only best solution will be to seek professional guidance from an advisor
who specializes in business setup.

Cost of an Import-Export License in Dubai

The starting cost for an import-export license in Dubai is around AED 16,575*. However,
additional costs may arise depending on your trade license and any applicable taxes. Goods sold
in the local market from a free zone are subject to a 5% duty, which can vary for certain
products.

Why Choose Emifast for Your Import-Export License?

Emifast is a leading business setup consultancy in Dubai, offering tailored solutions for company
formation, PRO services, bookkeeping, tax compliance, audit, and office space arrangements.
Our edge over other service providers comes from our commitment to international standards,
ensuring that our services help you navigate the complexities of the UAE business landscape.

Let Emifast’s experts guide you through how to start a foreign trade business in Dubai and
secure your import-export license!