A commercial trade licence with trading activities plus UAE Federal Customs importer/exporter code registration enabling cross-border goods movement.
Import & Export
Import Export License Dubai
Establish your import/export business in Dubai with the correct trading licence and UAE customs registration — KPM Global Services handles licence setup, importer codes, and product compliance for cross-border trade.
- Customs Registration
- Trading Licence
- Compliance Ready
Trade Setup
Import Export License Dubai
1Model
2Licence
3Customs
4Ship
Licensed cross-border trade
Mainland and free zone import/export options.
500+
UAE Clients Served
15+
Years UAE Experience
7/24
Advisory Support
8
Service Verticals
Overview
Dubai import/export licence explained
An import/export licence in Dubai combines a commercial trading activity on your UAE trade licence with registration of an importer/exporter code through UAE Federal Customs — enabling legal movement of goods across UAE borders.
Import/export businesses can operate from mainland DET licences with direct UAE distribution rights, or from free zones with access to bonded warehouses and streamlined customs procedures for re-export operations.
KPM Global Services coordinates trading licence issuance, customs code registration, product-specific approvals for restricted imports, and VAT setup for import duty and supply chain tax obligations.
Who This Is For
Businesses needing import/export licence
- International traders importing goods for UAE distribution
- Export companies shipping UAE products to global markets
- Manufacturers sourcing raw materials from overseas
- E-commerce businesses importing inventory for UAE fulfilment
- Commodity traders handling bulk import/export shipments
- Logistics companies adding trading activities to operations
How We Help
Import/export licence services
Trading licence
Obtain commercial licence with import/export or general trading activities.
Customs code registration
Register importer/exporter code with UAE Federal Customs.
Product compliance
Coordinate ESMA, MOHAP, or Municipality approvals for restricted imports.
Warehouse setup
Arrange bonded or commercial warehouse for import storage.
VAT advisory
Plan import VAT, reverse charge, and export zero-rating treatment.
Banking preparation
Compile trade finance KYC for letters of credit and trade accounts.
Process
Six steps to import/export licence
- 1
Trade model
Define import/export direction, products, and markets.
- 2
Jurisdiction selection
Choose mainland or free zone based on distribution and customs needs.
- 3
Licence issuance
Obtain trade licence with trading or import/export activities.
- 4
Customs registration
Apply for UAE customs importer/exporter code.
- 5
Product approvals
Secure regulator clearances for restricted product categories.
- 6
Operations launch
Complete VAT registration and commence import/export shipments.
Documents
Import/export licence documents
- Shareholder passport copies and photographs
- Trade licence with trading activities
- Ejari tenancy or warehouse lease agreement
- Memorandum of Association
- Business plan describing import/export operations
- Supplier invoices or proforma invoices
- Product compliance certificates for restricted goods
- Bank reference letter for trade finance
Pricing
Import/export licence cost factors
Import/export setup includes licence, customs, and operational infrastructure costs.
- Trading licence fees — mainland DET or free zone package
- Warehouse or office lease for trading operations
- Customs registration and bond fees
- Product-specific approval costs
- VAT registration and import duty working capital
KPM Global Services quotes licence and customs registration fees. Product approvals and warehouse costs are scoped separately.
Timeline
Import/export licence timeline
1–2 weeks
Licence issued
Trade licence with trading activities obtained.
3–5 days
Customs code
Importer/exporter code registered with Federal Customs.
1–2 weeks
Product approvals
Regulator clearances obtained for restricted categories.
2–3 weeks
Operations ready
VAT registered; first shipment can be processed.
Avoid Mistakes
Import/export licence mistakes
- Importing goods before customs code registration is complete
- Ignoring product-specific ESMA or MOHAP requirements for electronics and pharma
- Underestimating import VAT cash flow impact on working capital
- Using service licence for physical goods import — activity mismatch
- Choosing free zone without understanding mainland distribution requirements
- Failing to classify goods correctly under UAE customs HS codes
Why KPM
Why Choose KPM Global Services
UAE-focused advisory
Practical guidance on import/export licensing in Dubai from a Dubai-based team that works with authorities, banks, and regulators daily.
Clear documentation
Structured checklists, realistic timelines, and transparent scope so you know what is included before you proceed.
Connected services
Link setup, visas, banking, accounting, VAT, Corporate Tax, PRO, and legal support through one coordinated advisory journey.
No generic templates
Advice is tailored to your activity, shareholders, jurisdiction, and operational plans — not a one-size-fits-all package.
Free tool
Match DED activity codes
Calculate and check before you speak to an advisor — FTA-aligned thresholds, instant results, PDF export.
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Free Consultation
Request a Quote — Import Export License Dubai
Share your requirements and our UAE advisory team will respond with practical next steps and a transparent scope.
FAQ
Import Export License Dubai — Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about import export license dubai in the UAE.
Ready to get started with Import Export License Dubai?
Speak with KPM Global Services for practical UAE guidance — free consultation, no obligation.