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

You will need a valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in China, attested documents via Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT, and a business plan for your import export venture.

How long does it take for a Chinese citizen to set up a import export company in Fujairah DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

What are the tax implications for an Import Export business in Fujairah Mainland?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Mainland companies are subject to the standard 9% corporate tax rate on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Import Export company in Fujairah Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including import export. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Import Export company in Fujairah DED?

Most of the setup process for a import export business in Fujairah DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

What documents do I need to set up an Import Export business in Fujairah DED?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

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

Yes, with a valid trade licence from Fujairah DED, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Mainland companies typically have the widest choice of banking partners. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

Import Export in Fujairah Mainland for Chinese nationals

MainlandCommercial

Import Export in Fujairah DED

Starting From

AED 6,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Fujairah

About Import Export

The UAE continues to attract Chinese entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and Fujairah DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for import export operations. Rapidly growing community in the UAE (~300,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Fujairah Mainland gives your Import Export business access to Fujairah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Import Export activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up import export businesses in Fujairah Mainland since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why Fujairah DED for Import Export?

Choosing Fujairah DED for your import export business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers east coast port access, which is particularly valuable for import export operations. Additionally, oil and shipping hub ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 3,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade across the UAE further enhances the appeal of Fujairah DED for import export professionals. Furthermore, cost-effective licensing positions your import export business for long-term success in the region. With Fujairah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Fujairah DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

East coast port access

Oil and shipping hub

Trade across the UAE

Cost-effective licensing

Growing commercial centre

Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals

For Chinese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your import export business in Fujairah DED.

Banking for Chinese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your import export company in Fujairah DED: Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations. Several UAE banks have dedicated Chinese business desks and Mandarin-speaking staff. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Chinese business structures.

Document Attestation for Chinese Nationals

Document attestation for Chinese nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in China, (2) Attestation by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to import export businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Detailed business plan or activity description

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	6,000
Visa Package (per visa)	3,200
Ejari Office	5,000
Co-Working	3,000
Private Office	12,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 14,200

* 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 Fujairah DED licence options for Chinese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official Fujairah DED trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Chinese nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including import export.

Import Export in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

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DIFC

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Abu Dhabi DED

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JAFZA

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

From AED 11,750