From Dubai’s international airports through to its seaport and its land transport links, everything is set up to make importing and exporting goods from the emirate extremely easy. Dubai, and the UAE as a whole, also benefit from its strategic location at the crossroads of international trade between Europe, Africa and Asia. There are few better places on Earth to trade from!

You will need a Dubai customs code if your company wants to import or export goods through Dubai. Given how to trade-friendly the emirate is, it’s no surprise that getting a customs code is generally a straightforward process. In this article, you will learn what a Dubai customs code is, what you need to do to apply for one, and how much a customs code for Dubai will cost.

Obtaining a customs client code in Dubai brings many benefits, including:

• Freedom [AS1] To Import And Export Goods Legally
• A Speedy And Efficient Customs Clearance Process
• Means You Avoid Any Potential Legal Risks Or Government Fines

What Is A Customs Client Code In UAE?

If you want to import or export goods to Dubai from the rest of the world, it is a legal requirement for you to have a Dubai customs client code.

A Dubai customs client code gives your company approval for importing or exporting goods to and from Dubai. If you want to run any import or export business from the emirate, you must register with Dubai Customs. Once your application is complete, you will be approved and given a Dubai customs client code. You then use this code on paperwork when importing or exporting goods from the emirate. Every company receives a unique customs code valid until its business license expires. The Dubai customs code must then be renewed every 12 months.

Is A Customs Client Code Required In The UAE?

It is mandatory to have a customs client code if you wish to import or export goods from the UAE, and it is illegal to import or export goods without such a code. Depending on which emirate your business is based in, you must apply for the customs code from that emirate’s customs authority. If your business is registered in Dubai, you must get the customs code from Dubai Customs.

You don’t need to apply for a Dubai customs code if you are just a private individual bringing over your goods to the country or buying products from abroad. You only need a Dubai customs code if you are a business that either plans to sell products imported from abroad into the local market or export goods to other countries.

Besides getting the customs code, you must also ensure that any goods you import comply with national laws.

There are several types of goods which it is illegal to import into Dubai, including:

• Illegal narcotics
• Pirated content
• Counterfeit currency
• Gambling machines and related gambling paraphernalia
• Publications or artwork that contradicts Islamic teachings

There are also various restrictions on importing animals, foods, medication, vehicles and weaponry. You must inform yourself about what you can and cannot import into the country.

Apply for your customs code? To find out more, get in touch with us today.