WhatsApp quoteIn practice, 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 short, 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. In our experience, typical examples of this activity include electronics, building materials, FMCG, furniture and spare parts, which can usually sit together on one Import / Export Code licence. General Trading in Import / Export Code means import, export, re-export and wholesale of a broad range of goods under one licence, and it is licensed as a commercial activity.
Why Import / Export Code
Just as important, keeping records for five years, issuing compliant invoices and filing on time are the ongoing obligations that follow Import / Export Code. The code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. GoldenKey has licensed general trading in Import / Export Code for clients ranging from solo founders to groups opening a regional branch, so we know which sub-activities to list.
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. If the authority raises a query on import / export code for a general trading company at this stage, we handle it the same day.
Step 2EmaraTax setup
GoldenKey opens or accesses your EmaraTax account and links the licence, signatory and bank details needed for Import / Export Code.
Step 3Application
We complete the Import / Export Code application with turnover, activity and import details and upload the supporting papers. If the authority raises a query on import / export code for a general trading company at this stage, we handle it the same day.
Step 4Certificate and compliance calendar
Once the FTA approves, we diarise your return and payment deadlines so nothing is missed.
Documents required
Gather these paperwork and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of import / export code for a general trading company.
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
Pricing
In short, use the table below to compare packages for import / export code for a general trading company; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation. The figures below for import / export code for a general trading company are updated by GoldenKey whenever the licensing authority changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one.
| 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 a general trading company no longer requires a local partner. In short, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for a general trading company a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for a general trading company for traders, consultants, tech company owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped founders from more than 60 countries with import / export code for a general trading company, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us. 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.
Book a call with GoldenKey and we will confirm your eligibility, your costs and your next steps for import / export code for a general trading company in a single conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
As we tell every client, the customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is issued.
Is Import / Export Code mandatory for a free zone company?
Yes, it can. 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.
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
As a rule, the FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Is general trading allowed in Import / Export Code?
Import / Export Code applies to a general trading company 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 general trading?
As we tell every client, general Trading is classified as a commercial activity, and GoldenKey selects the exact activity code so your licence matches what you actually do.
