📌Required Documentation for Import-Export Code (IEC) Registration in the UAE
Get the full list of documents needed to register for an Import-Export Code (IEC) in the UAE, for both Free Zone and Mainland businesses.
Introduction
To successfully register your Import-Export Code (IEC) in the UAE, you’ll need to submit a set of clearly defined documents to the relevant customs authority in your emirate. This documentation helps verify your company’s legal status, trade license, and operational readiness for cross-border transactions.
This guide provides a complete checklist of required documents — customized for both Mainland and Free Zone companies — to help ensure a smooth and fast approval process.
Basic Documentation Required for All Businesses
Valid Trade License
Confirms legal business registration and activity eligibility
Company’s MOA / AOA
Details company structure and scope of operations
Passport Copies of Shareholders
KYC requirement for individual verification
Emirates ID of Authorized Signatory (if resident)
Verifies UAE residency and legal representative
Office Lease / Tenancy Contract / Ejari
Confirms company has a valid physical address for trade
Undertaking Letter / Authorization Form
Required by many customs authorities to authorize company representatives
Company Stamp
Needed to validate forms and declarations
Mobile Number & Email ID
Used for login, updates, and digital verification (especially in Dubai Trade Portal)
Additional Documents Based on Jurisdiction
📍 Dubai (via Dubai Customs / Dubai Trade Portal)
Registration through Dubai Trade portal
Company establishment card (immigration card)
VAT certificate (if registered)
Completed online registration form
Optional: Customs Broker Authorization (if using a third-party agent)
🏙️ Abu Dhabi (via Abu Dhabi Customs)
Copy of chamber of commerce certificate
ADDED license copy (for Mainland)
Application form signed and stamped
Department of Finance registration (for government tenders)
🏢 Free Zones (e.g., JAFZA, DMCC, RAKEZ)
Free Zone trade license
Office lease within the Free Zone
Internal approval letter (some Free Zones handle customs registrations directly)
Notarized specimen signature of the authorized person
💡 Note: Some Free Zones such as DMCC and JAFZA integrate customs code issuance into their business license process.
Example: Required Documents for a Dubai Mainland Trading Company
Valid DED trade license
MOA (stamped and notarized)
Passport and visa page of the authorized manager
Emirates ID (if applicable)
Tenancy contract + Ejari
Company stamp
Mobile number and valid email address
Undertaking letter (template provided by Dubai Customs)
Translation & Attestation Notes
All documents must be in Arabic or English
Some emirates may require Arabic versions of the MOA or tenancy contract
Documents must be signed and stamped to be considered valid
In case of foreign shareholders, documents may need attestation from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting expired trade license
Immediate rejection
Office lease not under company name
Application put on hold
Using personal email/number for login
Delays in receiving access or updates
Missing Emirates ID when required
Compliance failure for Mainland firms
No business activity matching trading
Rejection due to license mismatch
Conclusion
Getting your IEC registration approved quickly starts with complete and correct documentation. Each emirate may have slight variations, but having a professionally prepared file will greatly reduce rejections and delays.
Need help preparing your IEC application file? 👉 Visit Sharkup.com to get a custom document checklist and full support for Import-Export Code registration in any UAE emirate.
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