Table of contents

• Register Your Business with Dubai Customs
• Understand the Required Import Documentation
• Pay Customs Duties and Taxes
• Clear Your Shipment Through Dubai Customs
• Arrange Final Delivery and Warehouse Storage

Dubai stands as a global logistics and trade hub, making it a top destination for importing goods. Whether you're a first-time importer or an established trader, understanding the import process in the UAE is essential for smooth and cost-effective operations. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step procedure to import goods into Dubai, including legal requirements, customs clearance, and tips to avoid delays.

Register Your Business with Dubai Customs

Before you can import goods into Dubai, your company must be registered with Dubai Customs. This process involves:

• Getting a valid Trade License from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or Free Zone Authority.
• Registering on the Dubai Trade Portal (www.dubaitrade.ae) to obtain a Customs Code.
• Submitting documents such as license copies, Emirates ID, and passport copies of company owners.

Tip: Ensure your trade license activity matches the type of goods you plan to import.

Understand the Required Import Documentation

To clear goods through Dubai Customs, you need the following documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Bill of Lading (for sea freight) or Airway Bill (for air cargo)
• Import Permit (if applicable for restricted goods)
• Delivery Order from shipping agent
• Customs Declaration Form

Using Customs Clearance Dubai or a trusted freight forwarder can simplify this step by preparing and submitting documents on your behalf.

Pay Customs Duties and Taxes

Most goods imported into Dubai are subject to a 5% customs duty based on the CIF (Cost + Insurance + Freight) value. Some products, such as tobacco or alcohol, are taxed at higher rates.

You’ll also need to register for VAT (Value Added Tax) if your company’s taxable supplies and imports exceed AED 375,000 annually.

Pro Tip: Accurate classification of HS Codes ensures correct duty calculation and faster clearance.

Clear Your Shipment Through Dubai Customs

Once documents are submitted and duties are paid, Dubai Customs will inspect the goods physically or digitally. If no issues are found, they will release the goods.

Customs clearance times can vary depending on:

• Type of goods
• Port of entry (Jebel Ali, Port Rashid, DWC, DXB)
• Whether inspection is required

Time-Saving Tip: Partnering with a customs clearance agent in Dubai like us at customs-clearance-dubai.com ensures faster processing and compliance.

Arrange Final Delivery and Warehouse Storage

Once cleared, your goods can be delivered to your business location or stored in a bonded warehouse. Depending on your supply chain, you may choose:

• Direct delivery to your warehouse
• Local distribution via trucking services
• Long-term storage in Dubai’s logistics zones

Our team offers complete door-to-door shipping solutions including last-mile delivery across the UAE.