📌Eligibility Criteria for Import-Export Code (IEC) Registration in the UAE
Find out who qualifies for Import-Export Code (IEC) registration in the UAE, including license types, business activities, and Free Zone vs Mainland requirements.
Introduction
Before applying for an Import-Export Code (IEC), you need to confirm that your business activity, license, and office setup meet the criteria required by UAE customs authorities. Whether you're a Free Zone trader or a Mainland wholesaler, the eligibility requirements are relatively straightforward but vary slightly across emirates.
This guide explains who can apply for an IEC and what makes your business eligible or ineligible for customs code registration in the UAE.
1️⃣ Business Must Be Legally Registered in the UAE
Your company must hold a valid UAE trade license issued by either:
The Department of Economic Development (DED) – for Mainland businesses
A recognized Free Zone authority – for Free Zone businesses (e.g., DMCC, RAKEZ, SHAMS)
🔒 No unlicensed or informal entities are eligible for IEC registration.
2️⃣ License Must Include a Trading-Related Activity
To be eligible for an IEC, your trade license must list at least one of the following activity types:
General Trading
Import/export of mixed goods
Specific Commodity Trading
Perfume trading, electronics trading, furniture trading
Wholesale or Distribution
Bulk distribution, re-export businesses
Industrial or Manufacturing
Import of raw materials, export of finished goods
E-commerce (with physical product movement)
Import of inventory, cross-border fulfillment
⚠️ Consultancy, service, or virtual businesses not involved in physical goods are typically not eligible unless goods are part of their operations (e.g., branded merch, packaging, etc.).
3️⃣ Physical Office or Warehouse May Be Required
Many customs departments, especially for Mainland businesses, require proof of a valid commercial office lease or warehouse that is:
Registered under the company’s name
Compliant with the relevant municipality or Free Zone
Sized appropriately for the trading activity
For Free Zone companies, a Flexi-desk may suffice in some jurisdictions, especially if customs clearance is handled through an agent or logistics partner.
🟢 Sharkup Tip: If you don’t have a warehouse, a trade license paired with a logistics partner’s location may still work.
4️⃣ Valid UAE Residency Visa for Key Signatories (Sometimes Required)
Some customs authorities require at least one UAE resident shareholder or manager to be on the license, especially if:
You're applying as a Mainland company
You're registering with ports that require Emirates ID for access
🛂 Digital-only or fully foreign-owned setups without UAE-based signatories may face additional scrutiny or approval delays.
5️⃣ Additional Requirements by Customs Zone
Each emirate operates its own customs authority. Here’s how they generally differ:
Dubai
Dubai Customs
Requires online registration through Dubai Trade portal
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Customs
Often linked with ADDED and Department of Finance
Sharjah
Sharjah Ports and Customs
Document submission via manual or semi-digital channels
Free Zones
e.g., JAFZA, DMCC, RAKEZ
Some offer simplified IEC registration through zone portals
Who Is Not Eligible for IEC Registration?
Freelancers with service-only licenses
No product movement involved
Online businesses without trade license
Informal/unregistered businesses not recognized
Media or consultancy firms without tangible goods
No customs interaction required
License holders with expired trade licenses
Must renew before applying
Conclusion
If your business is legally registered, trading in goods, and has a proper office setup, you’re likely eligible to apply for an Import-Export Code in the UAE. Understanding your business activity and aligning with the right customs zone is essential to a smooth approval process.
Not sure if your business qualifies for IEC registration? 👉 Visit Sharkup.com for a free eligibility assessment and expert support in getting your customs code approved quickly and compliantly.
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