Import & Export company formation in the UAE
Ports, airports and warehouses matter as much as the licence itself.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical licence type | Trade licence with import/export activity |
| Approvals to check | Customs code; approvals for regulated goods |
| Mainland option | Mainland commercial licence for onshore distribution |
Free zones commonly considered
These zones are associated with this activity in their published focus. Confirm the activity is on the zone’s current permitted list before applying.
Mainland option
Mainland commercial licence for onshore distribution. See mainland company formation and the licence types guide.
What to budget
Total cost combines the licence, premises, visas, approvals and professional fees. Estimate government fees for a zone with the calculator.
| Zone | Published entry cost |
|---|---|
| Ajman Free Zone | From AED 5,565 (zero-visa) · AED 13,141 with one visa |
| RAKEZ | From about AED 6,010 (zero-visa) · about AED 12,010 with one visa |
| IFZA | From AED 12,900 (zero-visa) · about AED 21,450 with one visa |
| DMCC | Official packages from AED 29,185; licence typically AED 20,000–50,000 a year (DMCC, Apr 2026) |
Import & Export company formation: FAQs
Do I need a licence to start a import & export business in the UAE?
Yes — a business activity needs a trade licence from a free zone authority or an emirate’s economic department. The typical licence is: trade licence with import/export activity. Regulated elements may need additional approvals: customs code; approvals for regulated goods.
Which free zone is best for import & export?
There is no single best zone. Zones commonly considered include DMCC, IFZA, JAFZA, DAFZ, Dubai South, KEZAD. Confirm the permitted-activity list, then compare full first-year cost and your customer location.
Can a free zone import & export company sell in mainland UAE?
Not freely. A distributor, a dual-licence arrangement where offered, or a mainland licence is normally needed for direct onshore trading.
How much does import & export company formation cost?
Costs depend on the zone or emirate, premises, visas and approvals. Among zones commonly considered, published government entry points start at about AED 5,565 (Ajman Free Zone), reviewed July 2026; use the cost calculator for an estimate and request a written quote.
Related
Get a written quote for Import & Export
Tell us your activity and how many visas you need. We reply on WhatsApp or email with government fees shown separately from any service fee.
- Free, no obligation
- Honest advice — including when a different zone or mainland fits better
- No guarantee of visa or bank-account approval; both are subject to the relevant authority or bank
Information on this page is general and was compiled from public sources; fees and rules are set by the relevant authorities and change. Figures were last reviewed in July 2026 and exclude professional-service fees, office rent beyond any bundled desk, external approvals and bank requirements. This is not legal, tax or immigration advice. Always confirm the current position with the relevant authority before paying. See our Disclaimer.