Import/Export License Assistance in Dubai, UAE
At C4Customs, we provide complete Import and Export License Assistance in Dubai and across the UAE, helping businesses, traders, and logistics companies obtain and manage the licenses and permits required for international trade.
Whether you’re a startup launching your first import/export operation or an established company expanding into UAE markets, our experts simplify the entire process — from business activity selection to customs registration and trade license approval.
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What We Do — Duty Calculation & Compliance Advisory
Setting up an import/export business in Dubai involves several steps — including trade license approval, customs code registration, and compliance with Dubai Customs and Free Zone requirements.
C4Customs manages every stage of this process to ensure your company becomes fully licensed, registered, and ready to trade legally.
Our License Assistance Services Include:
1. Trade License Consultation (Mainland & Free Zone)
We guide you in choosing the best business setup type — Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore — based on your trading activity, target market, and customs clearance needs.
Our experts handle the full application process with authorities such as the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or Free Zone Authorities (JAFZA, DAFZA, SAIF, KIZAD, DMCC, etc.).
2. Import/Export Code Registration
To trade internationally, you need a valid customs import/export code from Dubai Customs.
C4Customs assists with registration through the Dubai Trade Portal, ensuring your license, trade name, and documentation meet customs standards for clearance.
3. Documentation & Application Filing
We prepare and submit all the necessary documentation for your trade license:
Passport and Emirates ID copies
Business name approval
Activity selection
Tenancy or Ejari agreement
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Customs registration form
Our digital documentation process reduces errors and speeds up approval.
4. License Renewal & Compliance
We monitor renewal dates for your import/export license and customs code to avoid penalties or deactivation.
C4Customs also ensures your business complies with VAT registration, UAE corporate tax, and customs valuation rules.
5. Business Setup Integration
Our team works with you from trade license approval to full customs clearance integration — linking your license with Dubai Trade, UAE Customs, and shipping portals.
This ensures seamless operation whether you’re importing goods via Jebel Ali Port, Dubai Airport Free Zone, or Khalifa Port Abu Dhabi.
Why You Need an Import/Export License in Dubai
Operating a trading business in the UAE without a valid license or customs registration can lead to shipment delays, penalties, or complete import/export restrictions.
An Import/Export License:
Grants legal authority to trade internationally.
Allows you to register with Dubai Customs and obtain an Import Code.
Enables customs clearance for goods entering or leaving the UAE.
Facilitates access to Free Zones and global shipping platforms.
Whether your business deals with electronics, automotive parts, food, or machinery — C4Customs ensures your license is valid, compliant, and recognized by all UAE authorities.
Step-by-Step Process for Import/Export License Setup
Our process is designed for simplicity, transparency, and full compliance.
Step 1: Business Activity Selection
We help you choose the right business category — General Trading, Specialized Goods, Foodstuff, Electronics, or Machinery — as this defines your license type and customs classification.
Step 2: Jurisdiction Selection
Choose between Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore setup:
Mainland: Full access to UAE market, suitable for distributors and importers.
Free Zone: 100% ownership, ideal for re-export or global trade.
Offshore: Best for international billing and tax optimization.
Step 3: Trade Name Registration
We reserve your business name under UAE’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or relevant Free Zone authority.
Step 4: Customs Registration (Import Code)
We create your account on Dubai Trade Portal, upload required documents, and obtain your customs code, linking it with your trade license.
Step 5: License Issuance & Renewal
Once approved, your license is issued digitally, ready for customs clearance and trade operations.
C4Customs continues to manage renewals, amendments, and VAT compliance.
Key Authorities We Work With
- Dubai Customs
Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)
Dubai Chamber of Commerce
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
JAFZA / DAFZA / SAIF Zone / DMCC / KIZAD / Dubai South
Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA)
Why Choose C4Customs for Import/Export License Assistance
- End-to-End Licensing & Customs Support — From business setup to customs registration, we handle it all.
- Experienced Trade Consultants in Dubai — Decades of experience in customs and freight procedures.
- Free Zone & Mainland Expertise — We assist across all major UAE jurisdictions.
- Transparent Costs — No hidden charges or unnecessary add-ons.
- Integrated With Freight & Clearance Services — Combine your license assistance with logistics and customs clearance for smooth operations.
Industries We Support
We assist businesses across key import/export sectors in the UAE:
Automotive & Machinery
Electronics & IT
Food & Beverages
Industrial & Construction Equipment
Textiles & Apparel
FMCG & Retail Products
Chemicals & Medical Supplies
The C4Customs Advantage
Partnering with C4Customs gives your business a head start in global trade:
- Fast License Setup & Customs Registration
- 100% Compliance With UAE Customs & Trade Laws
- Real-Time Support & Renewal Tracking
- Cost-Effective Setup Packages
- Assistance for both New & Existing Traders
FAQs – Import/Export License Assistance
Usually 4–7 working days if all documents are complete. coordination, inspections, container release, gate pass management, duty/VAT payment, warehouse coordination and final delivery.
Not always. Free Zones offer optional storage; Mainland offers flexible solutions.
You’ll need a UAE residence visa linked to your trade license.
Yes, an import/export code is required for customs clearance and Dubai Trade registration.
Yes, we handle renewals, VAT registration, and compliance for smooth ongoing operations