Becoming a Licensed Customs Broker in Dubai: Complete Requirements Guide

Customs brokers play a vital role in Dubai's trade ecosystem, facilitating the clearance of goods through customs on behalf of importers and exporters. This comprehensive guide covers the requirements and process for becoming a licensed customs broker through Dubai Customs and the Dubai Trade portal.

What is a Customs Broker?

A customs broker is a licensed professional authorized to act on behalf of importers and exporters in customs clearance procedures. They prepare and submit customs declarations via Mirsal 2 (Dubai Customs' electronic system), calculate duties and taxes, ensure regulatory compliance, and handle documentation requirements.

All Shipping Agents and Freight Forwarders must obtain a Shipping Agent code from Dubai Customs prior to registering with DP World.

Licensing Requirements

To obtain a customs broker license in Dubai, applicants must meet several criteria:

Business Registration: Valid trade license from a recognized licensing authority—Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), JAFZA, DAFZA, or Dubai South. You'll need a trade name reservation certificate and transaction number from DED, plus an employment certificate of the local owner or copy of employment ID.

Professional Qualifications: Key personnel must demonstrate knowledge of customs procedures, tariff classification, valuation methods, and relevant regulations.

Financial Requirements: Adequate financial standing and ability to post required bonds or guarantees.

Infrastructure: Office facilities and systems capable of interfacing with Dubai Customs electronic platforms (Mirsal 2).

Registration Costs

Dubai Customs New Registration costs AED 100 per Business Type + AED 20 Knowledge and Innovation fees. Upon successful payment, an Agent Code and Business Code are generated, and your Dubai Trade login is activated.

Application Process

The licensing process involves several steps:

1. Submit application through the Dubai Trade portal (www.dubaitrade.ae) with required documentation

2. Obtain a "No Objection Certificate for Customs Brokers License" through the automated process on Dubai Trade

3. After approval, log in as administrator and create users with the Broker Representative role to access Mirsal 2 services

4. Apply for a digital certificate for every user who needs to submit Customs Declarations

Licensees can authorize a Customs Broker electronically by associating a Customs Broker Code to their profile, permitting the broker to process transactions on their behalf.

Representative ID Cards

Customs brokers must obtain Representative ID cards for employees who will interact with customs authorities. These cards identify authorized personnel and grant access to customs facilities and the Mirsal 2 system.

Cards must be renewed periodically and updated when personnel changes occur. Lost or stolen cards must be reported immediately to prevent unauthorized use.

Client Accreditation Program (CAP)

The Client Accreditation Program offers enhanced privileges to brokers with excellent compliance records:

- Reduced Customs intervention for declaration clearances - Expedited processing and reduced inspection rates - Higher level of services based on compliance profile

Requirements: A good track record of compliance with Customs Laws and Regulations. Enrollment applications are submitted through the Dubai Trade portal.