WhatsApp quoteImportantly, the Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting paperwork must match your licence exactly. Just as important, 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 has Emirati customers from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, and our consultants understand the paperwork issued in United Arab Emirates and how to attest them for the UAE. existing residents can in most cases set up faster because Emirates ID and local address proof are already in place, which gives Emirati entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is granted.
Why Import / Export Code
GoldenKey prepares the EmaraTax request for Import / Export Code, uploads the supporting documents and follows up with the FTA until the certificate is released. Keeping records for five years, issuing compliant invoices and filing on time are the ongoing obligations that follow Import / Export Code. Emirati applicants benefit from the fact that Import / Export Code already has many Emirati shareholders on its register, so its officers recognise United Arab Emirates papers and name formats instantly.
Documents required
Gather these documents and GoldenKey will take care of the rest of import / export code for Emirati-owned companies.
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
Pricing
The figures below for import / export code for Emirati-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the authority changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one. Use the table below to compare packages for import / export code for Emirati-owned companies; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation.
| 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
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 Emirati-owned companies. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, which removes currency risk for import / export code for Emirati-owned companies and makes international pricing simple.
Why GoldenKey
Because GoldenKey works with the licensing authority, the immigration department and the banks every single week, we know exactly which paperwork each of them will ask for on an Import / Export Code file. 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 Emirati-owned companies happen the same day they are ready. We speak the languages our customers speak, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam, and we can arrange Russian, French and Mandarin support for import / export code for Emirati-owned companies.
Message GoldenKey now and we will prepare a personalised quotation for import / export code for Emirati-owned companies, valid for 30 days and confirmed in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Is Import / Export Code mandatory for a free zone company?
Yes. 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 issued.
Can GoldenKey act as my tax agent?
Yes. GoldenKey can prepare and submit filings on your behalf and handle FTA correspondence, so you have one point of contact for licence, visa and tax matters.
Do UAE nationals and residents need a UAE visa before applying for Import / Export Code?
No. You can apply for the licence from United Arab Emirates with scanned supporting documents, and the investor residency visa is processed afterwards.
Can a Emirati citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. UAE nationals and residents can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
