Customs client code

A registration linking your trade licence to the customs authority of the emirate you import through, without which you cannot clear goods. It is separate from the licence, inexpensive, and routinely discovered at the port by companies who did not know it existed.

Where it comes up

The customs client code links your trade licence to the customs authority of the emirate you import through. Without it goods cannot clear, and it is routinely discovered at the port by companies who did not know it existed.

What it costs

A modest registration fee, renewed annually alongside the licence.

Who it applies to

Any company importing goods. Registration is per emirate of entry, so importers using multiple ports need multiple codes.

How it actually goes

1. Hold the right licenceThe activity has to permit import or export. A consultancy licence will not support a customs registration.
2. Register with the emirate's customs authorityDubai Customs, Abu Dhabi Customs or the relevant emirate's department, with the trade licence, the manager's passport and a signed undertaking.
3. Link it to the licenceThe code is tied to the trade licence and expires with it, so it renews on the same cycle.
4. Register for VAT if you importImport VAT is accounted for through the reverse charge on the return, which requires a TRN linked to the customs code.

The first shipment is the wrong moment to discover the code has not been issued. Goods sitting at the port accrue storage and demurrage while an application that takes days is processed.

In short

• Required before your first import
• Registered per emirate of entry
• Separate from, and additional to, the trade licence

Where this leads

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