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. Getting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. Importantly, the most common businesses Swiss nationals open through GoldenKey are in wealth management, commodities, watches and luxury and pharmaceuticals, although Import / Export Code supports almost any activity. On the ground, swiss nationals are a discreet but significant presence in wealth management, commodities and precision industries, so the Import / Export Code authority, the banks and the immigration officers see Swiss applications every day and process them without hesitation.
Why Import / Export Code
Just as important, 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 submission for Import / Export Code, uploads the documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is issued. Importantly, many Swiss business owners run Import / Export Code companies alongside an existing business in Switzerland, using the UAE entity for international invoicing and regional sales.
Documents required
Just as important, the document list for import / export code for Swiss-owned companies is short, and most clients already have everything on it.
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- 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
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
Pricing
On the ground, the figures below for import / export code for Swiss-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the registrar changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one. All prices for import / export code for Swiss-owned companies are indicative, shown in AED and confirmed in writing before you pay.
| 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, residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for Swiss-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision. Since 2021, most mainland activities have allowed 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered it, so import / export code for Swiss-owned companies no longer requires a local partner.
Why GoldenKey
If a document is missing or an approval is delayed on your Import / Export Code file, we tell you immediately and explain the fix, rather than letting the request sit. Importantly, 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 Swiss-owned companies. GoldenKey is based in Ajman Free Zone and has helped founders from more than 60 countries with import / export code for Swiss-owned companies, so the paperwork, approvals and timing hold no surprises for us.
Message GoldenKey now and we will prepare a personalised quotation for import / export code for Swiss-owned companies, valid for 30 days and confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
For most clients, the customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is granted.
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.
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
To be clear, the FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Can a Swiss citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. Swiss nationals 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 Switzerland and the UAE?
Yes, it can. The UAE and Switzerland 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.
