Business setup · Trade & commerce
How to Start an Import-Export Business in the UAE
Starting an import-export business in the UAE is a two-part process: a trading licence covering the goods you move, and a customs registration with the emirate’s customs authority. Re-exporters usually choose a port or airport free zone such as JAFZA or Dubai Airport Freezone; companies selling imports to UAE customers often need a mainland licence.
Fact-checked against official sources on · EH Management Consultancy LLC
At a glance
Key facts
- Licence
- General or specialised trading
- Customs
- Registration with the emirate’s customs authority
- Re-export hubs
- JAFZA, Dubai Airport Freezone, KEZAD
- Selling in the UAE
- Mainland licence or permitted distribution route
- Banking
- Expect detailed trade and source-of-funds checks
What do you need to know first?
The UAE’s ports and airports make it a natural re-export hub. The structure depends on the flow of goods: goods that arrive and leave again for other markets can often stay in a free zone, while goods sold to UAE buyers cross into the mainland and become subject to customs duty and VAT.
Banks scrutinise trading companies closely, so documenting suppliers, buyers, shipping routes and source of funds from day one makes account opening easier. Controlled goods such as food, medicines and chemicals need extra approvals in addition to the trading licence.
Regulators
Which approvals are needed?
Where to set up
Which jurisdictions suit this activity?
Visas: Import-export companies often need logistics and warehouse staff. Choose premises that support the visas you need.
Process
Step by step
-
01
Map the goods flow
Decide whether goods re-export or enter the UAE market.
-
02
Choose jurisdiction and premises
Port or airport free zone, mainland, or both.
-
03
License and register with customs
Obtain the trading licence and customs code.
-
04
Prepare banking documents
Supplier and buyer contracts, shipping documents, source of funds.
-
05
Register for VAT
Once taxable supplies reach the threshold.
Checklist
What should you prepare before applying?
Settle these before you pay any government fees.
- 01
Map where goods come from, where they go and who buys them.
- 02
Identify controlled goods and the approvals they need.
- 03
Choose a port or airport free zone, the mainland, or both.
- 04
Prepare shipping documents and trade contracts for banking.
- 05
Plan customs duty and VAT on goods entering the mainland.
Frequently asked
Questions about import & export in the UAE
Do I need a customs code to import into the UAE?
Yes. Importers and exporters register with the relevant emirate’s customs authority after obtaining a trading licence.
Should an import-export company be in a free zone?
Free zones suit re-export and regional distribution. If you sell imported goods to UAE customers, a mainland licence or permitted distribution route is usually needed.
Is VAT charged on imports?
Imports into the UAE mainland are generally subject to 5% import VAT, which a VAT-registered business can usually recover. Goods moving within certain free zones can be treated differently.
Why do banks ask so many questions about trading companies?
Trade-based money laundering risk means banks check suppliers, buyers, routes and source of funds. A prepared file reduces delays.
What is re-export?
Re-export means importing goods into the UAE, often into a free zone, and then exporting them to another country. Free zones beside ports and airports are designed for this flow.
Do I need a warehouse to start import-export?
Not always. Some traders use third-party logistics providers, but holding your own stock usually needs a warehouse or storage arrangement in the right zone.
Official sources
Verify it yourself
Regulators update their rules. These are the authoritative references behind this guide.
Related
Services and guides
Ready to license your import & export business?
We confirm the activity, approvals and best jurisdiction before you pay any government fees.