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 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. The most common businesses Swedes open through GoldenKey are in technology, telecom, design and sustainability, although Import / Export Code supports almost any activity. In short, for Swedish business owners, the UAE is around 6.5 hours from Stockholm, the UAE is 2 to 3 hours ahead of Sweden, and English proficiency is near-universal among Swedish professionals.
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 paperwork, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. The code is renewed annually with the licence and is required before your first shipment can be cleared. For most clients, many Swedish business owners run Import / Export Code companies alongside an existing business in Sweden, using the UAE entity for international invoicing and regional sales.
Documents required
Here is what you will need for import / export code for Swedish-owned companies; GoldenKey checks every item before submission.
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
Pricing
Pricing for import / export code for Swedish-owned companies depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated. The figures below for import / export code for Swedish-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the issuing 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
There are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital, so earnings from import / export code for Swedish-owned companies can be moved to your home country or reinvested freely. Crucially, the UAE sits within an eight-hour flight of two-thirds of the world's population, and for that reason so many founders choose it as a base for import / export code for Swedish-owned companies.
Why GoldenKey
GoldenKey builds its own CRM and client portal, so you can see the status of your Import / Export Code request, download your paperwork and pay invoices from your phone. We speak the languages our clients speak, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam, and we can arrange Russian, French and Mandarin support for import / export code for Swedish-owned companies. 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 Swedish-owned companies happen the same day they are ready.
Just as important, prefer to visit? Our Ajman office welcomes walk-ins during working hours, and we can also meet you in Dubai or Sharjah by appointment to discuss import / export code for Swedish-owned companies.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
In practice, the FTA usually responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
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.
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.
Can a Swedish citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Absolutely. Swedes can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
Do Swedes need a UAE visa before applying for Import / Export Code?
No, it does not. You can apply for the licence from Sweden with scanned documents, and the investor residency visa is processed afterwards.
