Import and export licence in Dubai
Importing and exporting requires a trading licence covering your goods and registration with customs.
Steps
- Obtain a trading or general trading licence covering the goods.
- Register with Dubai Customs, or the relevant emirate's customs, for an importer or exporter code.
- Obtain approvals for any restricted goods.
- Arrange a clearing agent or logistics provider.
Duties
Most goods entering the UAE mainland are subject to customs duty, commonly 5% of the value, with exemptions for certain goods and for goods moving within free zones.
Common questions
Can a free zone company import into the UAE?
Yes, into the free zone without duty. Moving goods onto the mainland triggers customs duty and requires a mainland importer.
Official sources
We check our guidance against these official sources. Always confirm current fees and rules before acting.