WhatsApp quoteThe Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting papers must match your licence exactly. As a rule, getting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. the UAE is Italy's largest export market in the Gulf, especially for food, fashion, machinery and interiors, which gives Italian entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is issued. The most common businesses Italians open through GoldenKey are in food and beverage, fashion, furniture and interiors and engineering, although Import / Export Code supports almost any 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 documents, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax application for Import / Export Code, uploads the documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is issued. GoldenKey has prepared Import / Export Code files for Italian clients in food and beverage, fashion, furniture and interiors and engineering, which means we know which Italy paperwork need attestation and which can be submitted as plain copies.
Documents required
As we tell every client, the document list for import / export code for Italian-owned companies is short, and most clients already have everything on it.
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
Pricing
In practice, pricing for import / export code for Italian-owned companies depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. As we tell every client, all prices for import / export code for Italian-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing ahead of payment.
| 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
Residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for Italian-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision. As a rule, the UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international clients and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for import / export code for Italian-owned companies.
Why GoldenKey
Importantly, 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 Italian-owned companies happen the same day they are ready. From day one, every Import / Export Code package we quote already includes the licence, registration, the establishment card where applicable and our full assistance, with no hidden add-ons at the end. GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for Italian-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech company owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly.
Tell us about your plans for import / export code for Italian-owned companies and GoldenKey will come back to you shortly with a clear price, a document checklist and a realistic timeline.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Is Import / Export Code mandatory for a free zone company?
Absolutely. 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?
The customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is granted.
Can a Italian citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. Italians 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 Italy and the UAE?
Yes — The UAE and Italy have a double taxation agreement, and a UAE tax residency certificate lets you claim treaty relief on qualifying income. GoldenKey can obtain the certificate once your company is established.
