Dubai has long been recognised as one of the worldโs most strategic hubs for international trade. Its location between Asia, Europe, and Africa, along with its world-class ports and airports, makes it the perfect destination for entrepreneurs who want to start an import export company in Dubai. Whether youโre looking to trade in consumer goods, electronics, textiles, or food items, Dubai offers a tax-friendly, business-friendly environment that encourages growth and global connectivity.
In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the complete process, requirements, and costs for launching your import export business in Dubai & along with why working with an FTA-approved agency like AB Capital Services can make the process smoother and more compliant.
Why Choose Dubai for Your Import Export Business
Before diving into the process, itโs important to understand why so many entrepreneurs choose to start an import export company in Dubai:
- Strategic Location โ Dubai connects you to over 2 billion consumers within a 4-hour flight.
- Advanced Infrastructure โ Jebel Ali Port is one of the largest in the world, and Dubai International Airport is among the busiest for cargo.
- Tax Advantages โ No personal income tax and zero import duties for goods traded within free zones.
- Ease of Doing Business โ Streamlined procedures, investor-friendly laws, and support from government entities.
Step-by-Step Process to Start an Import Export Company in Dubai
1. Decide Your Business Jurisdiction โ Mainland or Free Zone
The first step is to decide where to register your company.
- Mainland โ Allows you to trade directly within the UAE market and internationally without restrictions.
- Free Zone โ Offers 100% foreign ownership, zero customs duty within the zone, and easier setup procedures.
If you plan to trade with UAEโs local market, a Mainland license might be better. If your primary focus is global trade, a Free Zone setup could be more cost-effective.
2. Choose Your Trading Activity and Business Name
Dubaiโs Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or relevant Free Zone Authority must approve your trading activity. Make sure to clearly specify whether youโre importing, exporting, or both. Your business name should follow UAEโs naming guidelines and there should not be any offensive words or references to religious or political groups.
3. Apply for the Trade License
To start an import export company in Dubai, you will need a commercial trade license. This is issued by DET for Mainland companies or the respective Free Zone Authority for Free Zone setups. The license will clearly define the scope of your trading activities.
4. Register with Dubai Customs
Import and export companies must be registered with Dubai Customs to obtain a Customs Code, which allows your shipments to pass through UAE borders.
5. Secure Office Space or Flexi-Desk Facility
Whether Mainland or Free Zone, you will need a physical address for your business. Free zones often offer flexi-desk facilities to reduce costs for startups.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opening a UAE-based corporate account is essential for trade transactions. AB Capitalโs business setup experts can connect you with banks that support international trade businesses and meet compliance standards.
7. Obtain Relevant Permits and Approvals
Certain goods โ such as food items, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals which require special approvals from the relevant authorities.
Documents Required to Start an Import Export Company in Dubai
Hereโs what youโll generally need:
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport-sized photographs
- Visa copies (if applicable)
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval from DET or Free Zone Authority
- Lease agreement for your office space
- Customs registration documents
Cost of Starting an Import Export Company in Dubai
The total cost will vary based on jurisdiction, office space, and scope of operations. Hereโs an approximate breakdown:
- Trade License โ AED 10,000 to AED 20,000
- Customs Registration โ AED 500 to AED 1,000
- Office Space or Flexi Desk โ AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 annually
- Other Approvals/Permits โ AED 1,000 to AED 5,000
- Visa Costs โ AED 3,000 to AED 7,000 per visa
Total estimated setup cost: AED 25,000 to AED 45,000 (USD 6,800 to 12,250) depending on business size and location. To know the accurate cost you can visit www.abcapital.ae or call at +971 58 561 9500.
Why Work with AB Capital, Dubai for Your Import Export Setup
AB Capital Services is an FTA-approved agency located in Dubai, UAE, which means we comply with all Federal Tax Authority regulations and can help ensure your import export business is VAT-ready from day one. Our team provides:
- Assistance in choosing the right jurisdiction
- End-to-end documentation and licensing support
- Customs registration and import export code acquisition
- VAT registration and compliance support
- Corporate bank account setup guidance
Final Thoughts
Dubaiโs position as a global trading hub, combined with its tax incentives and supportive infrastructure, makes it an unbeatable choice for entrepreneurs who want to start an import export company in Dubai. Whether youโre a first-time trader or an experienced business owner, setting up in Dubai gives you access to new markets, world-class facilities, and a stable business environment.
Working with an experienced and FTA-approved partner like AB Capital Services, Dubai, UAE ensures your setup is smooth, compliant, and ready for growth.
FAQโs about Starting an Import Export Company in Dubai
1. What is the first step to start an import export company in Dubai?
The first step is deciding whether to set up your business in the Mainland or a Free Zone. Mainland companies can trade within the UAE and internationally, while Free Zone companies can trade globally but need a local distributor to sell in the UAE market. After this decision, you proceed with a trade license application and customs registration.
2. Do I need a Customs Code to import or export goods in Dubai?
Yes. All import and export companies in Dubai must register with Dubai Customs and obtain a Customs Code. Without it, your shipments will not be cleared at UAE borders. AB Capital can help you with the complete customs registration process.
3. What is the cost of setting up an import export company in Dubai?
The cost generally ranges from AED 25,000 to AED 45,000, depending on your jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone), office space requirements, and the number of visas you need. Additional costs may apply for goods that require special permits.
4. Can a foreign investor own 100% of an import export company in Dubai?
Yes, foreign investors can own 100% of their company in most Free Zones and also in Mainland Dubai for specific business activities as per UAEโs updated commercial laws.
5. Why should I choose AB Capital for setting up my import export business?
AB Capital Services, Dubai is an FTA-approved agency, meaning we meet all compliance standards set by the Federal Tax Authority. We offer end-to-end support, from business licensing and customs registration to VAT compliance and bank account opening โ making the process faster, smoother, and legally compliant.