WhatsApp quoteAs we tell every client, 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 documents must match your licence exactly. GoldenKey has licensed media production company businesses for clients in Import / Export Code and knows which sub-activities to list so you are not asked to amend the licence later. In our experience, typical examples of this activity include video production, podcast studio, publishing house and content creator, which can usually sit together on one Import / Export Code licence.
Why Import / Export Code
From day one, penalties for late Import / Export Code or late filing start at fixed amounts and grow with delay, which is why GoldenKey diarises every deadline for its clients. Crucially, the code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. GoldenKey has licensed media & content production in Import / Export Code for customers ranging from solo company owners to groups opening a regional branch, so we know which sub-activities to list.
How Import / Export Code works with GoldenKey
Step 1Assessment
Put simply, we confirm whether Import / Export Code is mandatory, voluntary or not yet required for your business, and set the right timing.
Step 2EmaraTax setup
GoldenKey opens or accesses your EmaraTax account and links the licence, signatory and bank details needed for Import / Export Code. Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for import / export code for a media production company.
Step 3Application
In short, we complete the Import / Export Code application — turnover, activity and import details — and upload every supporting document.
Step 4Certificate and compliance calendar
Day to day, the FTA issues your registration certificate and we add the filing and payment dates to your compliance calendar. Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for import / export code for a media production company.
Documents required
Here is what you will need for import / export code for a media production company; GoldenKey checks every item before submission.
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
Pricing
On the ground, all prices for import / export code for a media production company are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay. The figures below for import / export code for a media production 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
Importantly, since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so import / export code for a media production company no longer requires a local partner. There are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital, so earnings from import / export code for a media production company can be moved to your home country or reinvested freely.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey is a licensed business setup consultancy, not a reseller, which means your Import / Export Code submission is prepared, checked and submitted by our own team. Just as important, 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 a media production company happen the same day they are ready. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped founders from more than 60 countries with import / export code for a media production company, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us.
Tell us about your plans for import / export code for a media production company and GoldenKey will come back to you shortly with a clear price, a document checklist and a realistic timeline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
Just as important, the FTA usually 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.
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 issued.
Is media & content production allowed in Import / Export Code?
In short, import / Export Code applies to a media production company businesses on the same basis as any other UAE company: any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone.
What approvals does media & content production need?
Filming permits for public locations; UAE Media Council for advertising content. GoldenKey obtains these as part of the setup.
