What documents are required to import into Dubai?
To import goods into the Dubai mainland you need a transport document, a commercial invoice, a certificate of origin and a packing list. Sea cargo also needs a delivery order, and restricted goods need a permit.
Register with Dubai Customs before you import
Your company registers with Dubai Customs online through the Dubai Trade portal and receives a business code. The code is tied to your trade licence and is renewed when the licence is renewed.
- Copy of a valid trade licence
- Passport copy of the authorised person, for a new registration
Goods that need a permit
Some goods cannot be imported without a permit from the authority that controls them. The permit is needed when the declaration is filed, so arrange it before the cargo ships.
Documents for a free zone company
A free zone company uses the same set of papers, with a delivery order, and the goods are declared into the zone. The owner named in the documents must hold a free zone licence.
Why the HS code matters
Duty and permit rules are set by the tariff code of the goods. Dubai classifies goods under the unified customs tariff of the GCC.
Checks to make before the cargo ships
- The invoice, the packing list and the transport document match
- Your clearing agent has copies before the cargo arrives
- Every line has the correct HS code
- Any permit is in place
Checked against the Dubai Customs customer guide on 6 October 2026.
