WhatsApp quoteIn practice, getting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. The Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting supporting documents must match your licence exactly. Australians are a community of more than 15,000 residents in education, construction, hospitality and sports, so the Import / Export Code authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Australian applications every day and process them without hesitation. the UAE is Australia's largest trade and investment partner in the Middle East, with a CEPA concluded in 2024, which gives Australian entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is released.
Why Import / Export Code
GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax application for Import / Export Code, uploads the paperwork and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is issued. The code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. For Australians, the practical advantages of Import / Export Code are the ease of travel between Australia and the UAE, English is the working language, and a banking system that processes Australian dollar (AUD) transfers daily.
Documents required
Here is what you will need for import / export code for Australian-owned companies; GoldenKey checks every item before submission.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Customs code and import records where applicable
Pricing
All prices for import / export code for Australian-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing ahead of payment. For most clients, pricing for import / export code for Australian-owned companies depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 2,000 |
|---|
Dubai Customs or respective emirate customs code for trade activity
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-05.
Why the UAE
Since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so import / export code for Australian-owned companies no longer requires a local partner. On the ground, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for Australian-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
In practice, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for import / export code for Australian-owned companies happen the same day they are ready. Crucially, if a document is missing or an approval is delayed on your Import / Export Code file, we tell you immediately and explain the fix, rather than letting the file sit. GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for Australian-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech founders and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly.
Day to day, book a call with GoldenKey and we will confirm your eligibility, your costs and your next steps for import / export code for Australian-owned companies in a single conversation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
In short, the FTA generally responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Is Import / Export Code mandatory for a free zone company?
Yes. Free zone traders need a customs code to move goods in and out of the zone, and a separate mainland importer code if they sell into the UAE market.
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
Importantly, the customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is issued.
Can a Australian citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. Australians can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
Is there a double taxation agreement between Australia and the UAE?
The UAE and Australia do not currently have a comprehensive double taxation agreement, so you should plan with a tax adviser in Australia. The UAE itself charges no personal income tax and 9% corporate tax above AED 375,000.
