What documents does a British national need to start a import export business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your import export venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a import export company in DIC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How long does it take to get a Import Export licence in DIC?

The typical processing time for a import export licence at DIC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Is Dubai Internet City good for import export start-ups?

DIC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering premier it and tech hub and home to global tech companies. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the annual renewal costs for an Import Export business in Dubai Internet City?

The annual licence renewal for an Import Export DIC company costs approximately AED 15,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

How much does it cost to set up an Import Export business in Dubai Internet City?

The total setup cost for an Import Export business in DIC starts from approximately AED 15,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,000 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DIC Import Export licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DIC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Import Export in Dubai Internet City for British nationals

Free ZoneCommercial

Import Export in DIC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Import Export

As a British national looking to establish an Import Export business in Dubai Internet City, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United Kingdom has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of British professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Import Export business will benefit from premier it and tech hub and home to global tech companies. The DIC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 15,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your import export setup in DIC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DIC for Import Export?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Internet City continues to attract import export entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for import export operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for import export professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your import export business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For British nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large British business community.

Premier IT and tech hub

Home to global tech companies

Strategic Media City cluster

100% foreign ownership

Tech ecosystem networking

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your import export licence is issued by DIC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your import export business in DIC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for import export), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DIC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

8Signed application form from DIC authority

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your import export business plan and the best DIC licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the import export licence application to DIC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your import export business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DIC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including British nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Import Export in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750