WhatsApp quoteTo be clear, 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. 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. the UAE is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and the main re-export route for Pakistani goods, which gives Pakistani entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is issued. Pakistanis are one of the largest communities in the UAE, with well over a million residents, so the Import / Export Code authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Pakistani applications every day and process them without hesitation.
Why Import / Export Code
Importantly, the steps for Import / Export Code are: apply on the Dubai Trade or relevant customs portal, upload licence and authorised signatory supporting documents, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. Keeping records for five years, issuing compliant invoices and filing on time are the ongoing obligations that follow Import / Export Code. To be clear, pakistani applicants benefit from the fact that Import / Export Code already has many Pakistani shareholders on its register, so its officers recognise Pakistan documents and name formats instantly.
Documents required
The document list for import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies is short, and most customers already have everything on it.
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
Pricing
All prices for import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay. To be clear, the figures below for import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the 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
For most clients, english is the working language of business, contracts are routinely drafted in English, and government portals are bilingual, which simplifies import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies for international founders. Just as important, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey builds its own CRM and client portal, so you can see the status of your Import / Export Code file, download your papers and pay invoices from your phone. Day to day, 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. To be clear, 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.
To be clear, tell us about your plans for import / export code for Pakistani-owned companies 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?
For most clients, 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.
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.
Can a Pakistani citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes, it can. Pakistanis can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
How long does the process take for Pakistani applicants?
Processing for Pakistanis follows the same timeline as other nationalities. Documents from Pakistan that need attestation are the main variable, and GoldenKey guides you through that step.
