WhatsApp quoteGetting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. GoldenKey handles Import / Export Code for the companies we form and for businesses that come to us later, so the process is routine for our tax team. Typical examples of this activity include management consultancy, HR consultancy, marketing consultancy and project management, which can as a rule sit together on one Import / Export Code licence. Just as important, business Consulting in Import / Export Code means management, strategy, HR, marketing or operations consulting for corporate clients, and it is licensed as a professional activity.
Why Import / Export Code
The steps for Import / Export Code are: apply on the Dubai Trade or relevant customs portal, upload licence and authorised signatory papers, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax request for Import / Export Code, uploads the documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is granted. GoldenKey has licensed business consulting in Import / Export Code for clients ranging from solo entrepreneurs to groups opening a regional branch, so we know which sub-activities to list.
How Import / Export Code works with GoldenKey
Step 1Assessment
On the ground, we confirm whether Import / Export Code is mandatory, voluntary or not yet required for your business, and set the right timing.
Step 2EmaraTax setup
From day one, we set up EmaraTax access and attach your licence, authorised signatory and IBAN. We keep a written record of this step so your file for import / export code for a consulting practice is audit-ready.
Step 3Application
GoldenKey fills the FTA submission for Import / Export Code and uploads the licence, IDs and turnover evidence.
Step 4Certificate and compliance calendar
The FTA issues your Import / Export Code certificate and we add every filing and payment date to your compliance calendar. For import / export code for a consulting practice, GoldenKey completes this stage with you on WhatsApp or by email.
Documents required
Crucially, gather these documents and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of import / export code for a consulting practice.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Customs code and import records where applicable
Pricing
Use the table below to compare packages for import / export code for a consulting practice; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation. In short, pricing for import / export code for a consulting practice 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
Crucially, english is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies import / export code for a consulting practice for international entrepreneurs. There are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital, so earnings from import / export code for a consulting practice can be moved to your home country or reinvested freely.
Why GoldenKey
As we tell every client, we will tell you plainly if Import / Export Code is not the right choice for your plan and point you to a better option, even when that option costs less. GoldenKey builds its own CRM and client portal, so you can see the status of your Import / Export Code request, download your documents and pay invoices from your phone. Most of our Import / Export Code clients come to us through referrals from other founders, and that is why we take pride in keeping every promise we put in writing.
Ready to start? Send us a WhatsApp message with your nationality, the activity you have in mind and the number of visas you need, and we will reply shortly with a written quotation for import / export code for a consulting practice.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
The FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
What happens if I miss the Import / Export Code deadline?
Late registration attracts a fixed penalty, and late filings add further penalties. If you are already late, GoldenKey can register you and advise on penalty reconsideration where grounds exist.
Can GoldenKey act as my tax agent?
Yes. GoldenKey can prepare and submit filings on your behalf and handle FTA correspondence, so you have one point of contact for licence, visa and tax matters.
Is business consulting allowed in Import / Export Code?
In practice, import / Export Code applies to a consulting practice businesses on the same basis as any other UAE company: any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone.
Which licence type covers business consulting?
Business Consulting is classified as a professional activity, and GoldenKey selects the exact activity code so your licence matches what you actually do.
