🔃Import-Export Code (IEC) Registration in the UAE: A Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about IEC registration in the UAE — eligibility, documentation, and timeline to start importing and exporting legally.
Overview
If you're planning to import or export goods to or from the UAE, obtaining an Import-Export Code (IEC) is a legal requirement. This guide provides a structured breakdown of everything you need to know — from eligibility to documentation and timelines — formatted for GitBook.
📌 What is an IEC?
An Import-Export Code (IEC) is a customs registration number issued by UAE Customs that:
Authorizes businesses to legally import/export goods
Links to your trade license and business activities
Is required to register with ports, customs, and logistics networks
May be required to open business bank accounts (for trading licenses)
🧩 Sections
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for IEC registration, your business must:
Hold a valid UAE trade license (Mainland or Free Zone)
Have a trading, manufacturing, distribution, or import/export-related activity on your license
Operate from a valid commercial space (some Free Zones allow Flexi-desks)
Commonly Eligible Activities
General Trading
Electronics Trading
Foodstuff Trading
Industrial Manufacturing
Warehousing & Distribution
E-commerce (with inventory)
Not Eligible:
Freelancers or service-only license holders
Unlicensed individuals
Virtual consultancies with no physical goods involved
💡 Tip: If unsure, Sharkup can review your license and suggest eligibility tweaks.
📄 Required Documentation
Universal Documents (All Jurisdictions)
- Valid trade license
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Passport copy of all shareholders
- Emirates ID (if resident)
- Office lease or Ejari (Mainland)
- Company stamp
- Valid email & mobile numberAdditional Documents by Jurisdiction
📍 Dubai (Dubai Trade Portal)
Company Establishment Card
VAT Certificate (if registered)
Dubai Trade account registration
🏢 Free Zones (e.g., JAFZA, RAKEZ)
Lease agreement within the Free Zone
Internal approval or NOC from Free Zone Authority
🏙 Abu Dhabi
Chamber of Commerce Certificate
Signed & stamped application form
⚠️ Documents must be in English/Arabic and uploaded as clear PDFs
🕐 Application Process & Timeline
Step-by-Step Process
Prepare documents according to your jurisdiction
Create an account on the relevant customs portal:
Abu Dhabi Customs Portal
Sharjah or Free Zone portals
Fill out the IEC application form
Upload documents and submit your file
Pay the registration fee (AED 100–750 depending on emirate)
Await approval (see timelines below)
Average Approval Timelines
Jurisdiction
Timeline
Dubai (DED/FZ)
2–4 working days
Abu Dhabi
3–5 working days
Sharjah & North Emirates
3–6 working days
Free Zones (e.g., DMCC)
2–5 working days
After Approval
✅ Customs Code Issued ✅ Linked with ports and shipping systems ✅ Eligible to clear imports & exports
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake
Result
License doesn't include trading
Application rejected
Expired trade license
Immediate hold
Office lease missing or invalid
Approval delayed
Poor quality scans
File returned
Need help with IEC registration or unsure if you're eligible? 👉 Visit Sharkup.com — we’ll handle the entire process for you, from document prep to customs approval.
📬 Contact Sharkup today for a free eligibility check or custom document checklist.
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