Overview of Customs Registration
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is recognised as one of the global logistics hubs in the region, making it a magnificent location for an import and export business. The country has an advanced and effective customs procedure, which is beneficial for businesses that have established themselves in this region. The UAE government has also made the process very easy to attract investments to the import and export industry, whether it is through airports, seaports, or land transport.
Businesses in the UAE that want to sell imported goods domestically or export to other countries will need to register for the customs code. Each emirate in the UAE issues the customs code from that emirate’s customs authority. If you wish to issue a customs clearance for your Dubai business, it will be done through Dubai Customs.
Securing a customs code is a fairly easy process, provided the right guidance is provided. Once registration is completed with the authority, a unique import and export code will be issued to the company to be used for each transaction. In addition to obtaining a customs code, it is important to ensure that all imported goods comply with applicable national regulations. People who import personal items or purchase products from abroad do not need to apply to Dubai Customs Law.
The Importance of a Customs Client Code in the UAE
The UAE is a financial hub for most of the import and export companies around the world. The amount of security and vast business opportunities provided by the UAE are unmatchable. The reasons behind such facilities are their geographical strategic location, world-class infrastructure, stability in the economy, multicultural environment, and, above all, excellent way of life. Other than the said facilities, there are multiple freezones in the UAE that provide tax benefits, 100% expat ownership of the businesses, and simplified import and export procedures.
Having a customs code is a mandatory requirement for companies conducting import and export business in the UAE. The code is essential for compliance with regulations and customs clearance. Furthermore, having a customs code in the UAE enables import and export companies to benefit from the following:
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- Freedom to import and export legally
- Swift custom clearance process
- Protects the company from potential legal risks and penalties.
- Continuous border control and coordination with other government agencies to ensure limited goods coverage and protect customs laws and regulations
- Allows more focus on risky consignments.
- Technical intelligence helps in reducing the physical handling of products.
Documents Required for a Customs Client Code Application
The documents required to obtain a customs code in the UAE include, but are not limited to:
1. Valid trade license
2. A copy of the passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
3. An undertaking on the company’s letterhead
4. Other details, e.g., email ID, phone number
5. Business Address
How to Obtain a Customs Code in the UAE
Known to have the most developed customs procedures in the world, it is no surprise how easy the process of obtaining a customs code is in the UAE. The process is smooth and takes only a few business days. Below is how Gatestone Group will assist in obtaining a customs code in the UAE:
Application:
Gatestone Group will apply for your customs code by filing the application along with the required documents. We will make the government fee payment on your behalf for the application of the customs code.
Registration:
Once the initial registration is done, the authority will share an email for confirmation. Gatestone Group will assist you in creating your username and password for the online customs portal, where it is required to enter your company profile and other details.
Receiving custom’s code:
Receiving the custom’s code is the last stage in the process. After confirmation of the custom’s code, the trader can legally import and export the goods.
Banned And Restricted Goods
The UAE government regulates certain products and bans the entry of others. Products whose import or export is forbidden by the GCC States’ Common Customs Law, or any other applicable law or regulation are considered banned or prohibited products.
Goods that are designated as restricted are those whose import and export are prohibited by the law and any applicable regulations, and which require prior authorisation from the relevant authorities before being imported or exported.
Banned items include, but are not limited to:
1. Narcotic and controlled drugs
2. Pirated content
3. Fake currency
4. Objects used in black magic, witchcraft, or sorcery
5. Books and artwork that challenge or go against Islamic principles and teachings
6. Gambling tools
Maximise Your Trade Potential with Our Tailored Customs Registration Services!
Ready to streamline your customs registration process? Let Gatestone Group handle it for you! Our expert team ensures smooth and efficient customs registration services tailored to your business needs. Contact us today to get started and experience hassle-free customs compliance.
FAQs
A customs code in the UAE is required for businesses that want to import codes into the UAE. This code is issued by the Customs Duty Authority in the Emirate, such as Dubai custom duty in the Emirate of Dubai.
The documents required to obtain a customs code in the UAE include, but are not limited to:
- Valid trade license
- A copy of the passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
- An undertaking on the company’s letterhead
- Other details, e.g., email ID, phone number
- Business Address
Any business in the UAE planning to import or export goods to and from the UAE must register for the customs code.
5% of the CIF (cost insurance and freight) amount, excluding cigarettes and alcohol. For alcohol, there is a 50% custom charge and a 100% duty on cigarettes.