Import and Export Between Pakistan and Dubai: What License You Need

Dubai's non-oil foreign trade passed AED 2.2 trillion in 2024 [1]. Its ports handle 14 million TEUs a year [2], and its airports move 16 million tonnes of air freight [3]. This guide to import and export between Pakistan and Dubai: what license you need is written for Pakistani nationals planning a trading business. You'll learn which license fits, how customs registration works, and what Pakistan-side paperwork applies.

What Is Import and Export Between Pakistan and Dubai: What License You Need and Why It Matters

Trading goods between Pakistan and Dubai requires a UAE trade license with an import-export or general trading activity, plus a Dubai Customs trader code. The license lets you trade commercially. The code lets you clear cargo.

Picture a Karachi textile exporter who opens a Dubai South company to re-export fabric to East Africa. Without the customs code, the first shipment sits at port. A license alone clears nothing. For a wider overview, see this guide to an import export license in Dubai.

Trading License Options for Pakistan-Dubai Trade

Which Licenses Cover Import and Export Between Pakistan and Dubai: What License You Need

Most Pakistani traders pick a general trading license or a commodity license. General trading suits mixed goods. Specialized licenses simplify approvals for regulated goods like food.

Dubai South trading licenses start from AED 12,500 (confirm the current rate before filing). Dubai handles over 85,000 tonnes of tea yearly, so see the general trading license process if you're unsure. Import-export activity usually covers both directions, but re-exports need correct customs documents.

Why Pakistani Traders Choose Dubai South for Trading Licenses

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers import, export and re-export licenses, 100% foreign ownership and visa packages tied to the license. It sits beside Al Maktoum International Airport.

A Sialkot sports goods exporter can ship by air to GCC buyers within hours. Read more on setting up a trading, importing and exporting business.

Step-by-Step Process to Start Trading Between Pakistan and Dubai

Choose your activity, register the company, get the license, apply for a customs code, join the trade portal, then finish Pakistan-side registration. Complete each before shipping.

1. Match activity codes to your HS categories and submit passport details.

2. Pay fees, sign the lease, and open a corporate bank account.

3. Apply for the Dubai Customs trader code.

4. Prepare the invoice, packing list and certificate of origin.

Registering for a Customs Code and the Dubai Trade Portal

A Dubai Customs trader code is mandatory for importing or exporting through Dubai. Apply after the license is issued, using your license, establishment card, passport and lease. Our Dubai customs import code guide covers the details.

Then open a Dubai Trade account, which processes 98% of declarations digitally [4]. Here's how Dubai Trade Portal registration works. Customs duty is commonly 5%, and VAT is 5% (Federal Tax Authority, 2025) [5]. On a AED 100,000 electronics shipment, that's AED 5,000 duty before VAT.

Pakistan-Side Requirements for Exporters and Importers

Pakistani traders need a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue, WeBOC registration with Pakistan Customs, and an authorized dealer bank for foreign exchange.

• Commercial invoice and packing list.

• Bill of lading or airway bill.

• Certificate of origin from the chamber.

One Lahore exporter's cargo sat at port for days over a missing certificate. Don't repeat that.

Residency Visa and Company Setup for Pakistani Nationals

A Dubai South license lets you apply for a UAE residency visa through ICP and GDRFA, ending with an Emirates ID. Pakistani nationals can own the company fully. Quota depends on license and office type.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Choosing an activity that doesn't match your goods.

• Skipping the customs code before shipment.

• Ignoring food approvals.

Compare options in types of trade licenses in Dubai.

Next Steps Before You File

Import and export between Pakistan and Dubai: what license you need comes down to three items: the right activity license, a customs trader code, and Pakistan-side compliance. Speak with Dubai South Business Hub to confirm your activity, license cost and visa package before you file.

References

1. Dubai Chamber, 2024.

2. DP World, 2025.

3. Dubai Airports, 2026.

4. Dubai Trade, 2026.

5. Federal Tax Authority, 2025.