2025 UAE

Import & Export License

An import and export license in the UAE is crucial for businesses involved in international trade, enabling smooth customs clearance and operations in both free zones and the mainland. It requires a valid UAE Trade License, customs registration, and possibly Chamber of Commerce membership. The process involves document preparation, online registration, fee payment, and customs code activation.

Why a UAE Import/Export License Matters

These advantages let you capitalize on the UAE’s thriving trade ecosystem.

The UAE’s strategic location and modern logistics infrastructure make it an ideal global trade hub. Any business that imports into or exports from the UAE must hold a valid trade license and register with customs to obtain an official Customs Code. Emirates Express (EBCS) provides end-to-end support to secure your import/export license quickly and compliantly. Our experts guide you through each step—handling paperwork, liaising with authorities, and leveraging free-zone advantages to accelerate your market entry.

Regulations & Requirements

To operate legally, you must meet UAE regulatory criteria for trade:

Valid UAE Trade License

Obtain a general trading or specific import/export license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority in your emirate. The license’s business activities must explicitly cover import/export.

Customs Registration

Register on the UAE Trade portal or the relevant emirate’s customs portal. You’ll need a copy of your trade license, passport or Emirates ID of the authorized person, and an undertaking letter. After registration, you receive a unique importer/exporter code linked to your license.

Chamber Membership

Some emirates require local Chamber of Commerce membership for import/export businesses. Check with your licensing authority for any chamber registration steps.

Shipment Documents

Every shipment must include a commercial invoice, detailed packing list, and a Chamber-certified certificate of origin. If you import restricted items (e.g. food, chemicals, electronics), obtain the necessary permits in advance.

Customs Duty

Most imports incur a 5% customs duty on CIF value. Use the official UAE Customs tariff (HS codes) to estimate duties. Some goods (alcohol, tobacco) have higher rates, while many consumer items are duty-free.

Registration Fees

Customs registration fees are minimal. For example, Ajman Customs charges only AED 100 to issue an Importer Code. In most cases, registration is very fast—e.g., Ajman issues codes within ~10 minutes once documents are submitted.

By meeting these requirements, you ensure full compliance with 2025 UAE trade regulations and unlock legal import/export operations.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Prepare Your Documents

Ensure you have a valid UAE trade license with import/export activities. Gather copies of your license, the authorized person’s passport or Emirates ID, and a company letter if needed. For professional license types, prepare an Undertaking Letter as well. If applying from abroad, include notarized POA or similar documents as required.

Initiate Online Registration

Go to the UAE Trade (Dubai Trade) portal or the Ajman Customs portal and select New Business Registration. Enter your company details (name, address, license number) and contact information.

Submit Documents

Upload your trade license and identity documents. Double-check that all details match your license exactly. (Errors can delay approval.)

Pay Fees

Proceed to payment. In Ajman, for example, the issuance fee is only AED 100. Other emirates have similar nominal fees. Keep the payment receipt for your records.

Receive Customs Code

Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your unique Importer/Exporter Code. In Ajman, this happens in minutes. In Dubai or other emirates, it may take up to 1-2 business days. This code remains valid as long as your trade license is active.

Activate and Use the Code

Log in to UAE Customs via the same portal to verify your code. You are now authorized to clear imports and exports. For each shipment, use this code when filing customs declarations. (Dubai Trade and other emirates’ systems allow you to submit import/export declarations online.)

By following these steps carefully, you can launch import/export operations with minimal hassle. On average, a smoothly prepared application takes only a few days from start to finish.

Secure Your Future: Book Your Expert Consultation Now

Emirates Express (EBCS) Advantage

We turn complex licensing into a seamless journey so you can start trading internationally sooner.

In-Depth Expertise

Our consultants stay current on 2025 trade laws and UAE customs policies. We help you avoid errors (e.g. mismatched documents) that can trigger inspections or fines.

Tailored Solutions

Whether you’re in a free zone or on the mainland, we customize the license application to your corporate structure. We advise on the best jurisdiction (Ajman, Dubai, etc.) for your specific industry and volume.

Dedicated Support

You’ll work with a single point of contact who manages the process. From drafting application letters to tracking your file with authorities, we handle every detail so you can focus on your business.

Track Record

Over 15,000+ companies have launched with Emirates Express’s help. Our streamlined process and local relationships often secure customs codes faster than clients could on their own.

"EBCS’s expertise in free-zone regulations streamlined our Jebel Ali license process. We launched our shipments much faster than expected."

"Working with Emirates Express was a game-changer. We obtained our import license in days with their guidance. Every step was clear and efficient."