WhatsApp quoteTo be clear, the Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting documents must match your licence exactly. In practice, import / Export Code is a customs client code that lets your company clear goods through UAE ports and airports, and it applies to any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone. Day to day, in Dubai, Import / Export Code is handled by GoldenKey's team through the local authority offices, and our consultants visit them in person when a file needs it. Dubai businesses in districts such as Business Bay, Deira, Bur Dubai, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Al Quoz use GoldenKey for Import / Export Code because we combine local presence with federal expertise.
Why Import / Export Code
In practice, the code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. Crucially, 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.
How Import / Export Code works with GoldenKey
Step 1Assessment
We confirm whether Import / Export Code is mandatory, voluntary or not yet required for your turnover and activity, and fix the right timing. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to import / export code in Dubai.
Step 2EmaraTax setup
We set up EmaraTax access and attach your licence, authorised signatory and IBAN.
Step 3Application
GoldenKey fills the FTA application for Import / Export Code and uploads the licence, IDs and turnover evidence. For import / export code in Dubai this step rarely needs your presence; scans and e-signatures are enough.
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.
Documents required
Day to day, gather these documents and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of import / export code in Dubai.
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- 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
- Customs code and import records where applicable
Pricing
As we tell every client, the figures below for import / export code in Dubai are updated by GoldenKey whenever the authority changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one. All prices for import / export code in Dubai are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay.
| 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 in Dubai no longer requires a local partner. English is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies import / export code in Dubai for international company owners.
Why GoldenKey
Because GoldenKey works with the licensing authority, the immigration department and the banks every single week, we know exactly which documents each of them will ask for on an Import / Export Code file. GoldenKey is a licensed business setup consultancy, not a reseller, which means your Import / Export Code request is prepared, checked and submitted by our own team. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped founders from more than 60 countries with import / export code in Dubai, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us.
Day to day, if you would like a written quotation for import / export code in Dubai, use the form below or message us on WhatsApp and we will respond as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
To be clear, the customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is granted.
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.
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.
