WhatsApp quoteGetting Import / Export Code right at the start avoids penalties that are easy to trigger and tedious to appeal. From day one, 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. In our experience, for American business owners, the UAE is around 12 to 16 hours from Washington, D.C., the UAE is 8 to 12 hours ahead of the US, and English is the working language of UAE business. the UAE is the largest export market for US goods in the Middle East, and the dirham's dollar peg removes currency risk, which gives American entrepreneurs a ready market and supply chain the moment their Import / Export Code licence is issued.
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 issued. 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. American applicants benefit from the fact that Import / Export Code already has many American shareholders on its register, so its officers recognise United States papers and name formats instantly.
Documents required
The document list for import / export code for American-owned companies is short, and most clients already have everything on it.
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
Pricing
Use the table below to compare packages for import / export code for American-owned companies; we will confirm the exact total for your case in a written quotation. Put simply, the figures below for import / export code for American-owned companies are updated by GoldenKey whenever the registrar 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
Residence visas for owners and families come with the company, which makes import / export code for American-owned companies a route to relocation as well as a business decision. The UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international customers and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for import / export code for American-owned companies.
Why GoldenKey
In our experience, 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 American-owned companies. GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for American-owned companies for traders, consultants, tech founders and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves promptly. Just as important, most of our Import / Export Code clients come to us through referrals from other company owners, which is why we take pride in keeping every promise we put in writing.
Importantly, tell us about your plans for import / export code for American-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?
In our experience, the FTA usually responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Can GoldenKey act as my tax agent?
Yes, it can. 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.
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.
Is there a double taxation agreement between United States and the UAE?
To be clear, the UAE and United States do not currently have a comprehensive double taxation agreement, so you should plan with a tax adviser in United States. The UAE itself charges no personal income tax and 9% corporate tax above AED 375,000.
Can a American citizen own 100% of a company in Import / Export Code?
Yes. Americans can own the full share capital of a Import / Export Code company with no local partner, exactly like any other nationality.
