If your business is importing goods into the UAE for the first time — or through Sohar Port specifically — registering for a UAE Customs Importer Code is the essential first step. Without this code, no commercial cargo can be cleared in your company's name at any UAE port. Al Nakheel makes this registration process straightforward and efficient.

What Is a New Import Code Registration?

A new import code registration is the process of enrolling your business with UAE Customs as an authorised importer. Once registered, you receive a unique Importer Code — sometimes referred to as a Customs Registration Number — which is used in all future customs declarations when clearing cargo at Sohar Port or any other UAE port.

This registration is distinct from your trade license. Having a valid trade license is a prerequisite, but it does not automatically give you the ability to clear customs — you must separately register with the customs authority.

Who Needs a New Import Code?

  • Newly established UAE businesses that intend to import goods commercially for the first time
  • Businesses that have never previously cleared customs in their own name (previously relying on another party's code)
  • Foreign companies setting up a UAE entity and planning to import via Sohar Port
  • Free zone companies that are expanding operations to include mainland customs clearance

If you are not sure whether you need a new registration or a renewal of an existing (perhaps forgotten or lapsed) code, Al Nakheel can check your company's existing status with the relevant authority.

Need Clearance at Sohar Port?

Our team handles everything — documentation, duties, and release. Fast response guaranteed.

WhatsApp Us Now 📞 (+971) 4 236 9740

Documents Required for New Import Code Registration

The following documents are generally required to register a new import code with UAE Customs. Requirements may vary slightly depending on your company type and the authority governing Sohar Port:

  • Valid UAE Trade License (mainland or free zone)
  • Emirates ID or valid Passport of the license holder or authorised signatory
  • Memorandum of Association or Articles of Association (for companies with multiple shareholders)
  • Establishment Card (for mainland companies)
  • Bank details (in some cases, for verification purposes)
  • Power of Attorney authorising Al Nakheel to act on your behalf

Note: Specific product categories may require additional approvals or ministry registrations before an import code can be fully activated for those goods. Al Nakheel will flag any such requirements during the initial review of your case.

Step-by-Step: How Al Nakheel Registers Your Import Code

  1. Initial Consultation: We review your business type, the goods you intend to import, and confirm the correct customs authority and registration pathway for Sohar Port.
  2. Document Checklist: We provide you with a tailored list of required documents based on your company structure and import activities.
  3. Document Preparation and Review: Our team reviews all submitted documents to check validity, consistency, and completeness before submission.
  4. Application Submission: We submit your registration application through the official UAE Customs portal or Oman Customs (Royal Oman Police) system.
  5. Authority Queries: If the authority requests additional information or clarification, we handle the correspondence and resolve queries quickly.
  6. Code Issuance: Once approved, your new Importer Code is issued and you are ready to clear cargo at Sohar Port and any other UAE port.

How Long Does New Import Code Registration Take?

Registration timelines depend on the completeness of your application and the specific customs authority processing it. When documents are complete and correct, registration is generally completed within a few working days. Al Nakheel will give you a realistic estimate once we have reviewed your company details.

Can I Import Goods Before My Code Is Registered?

Goods can arrive at Sohar Port before your import code registration is complete, but they cannot be cleared until the code is active. Cargo will be held at the port in the meantime, accruing storage and demurrage charges. For this reason, Al Nakheel strongly recommends initiating the registration process well before your first shipment departs from its origin country.

Need Clearance at Sohar Port?

Our team handles everything — documentation, duties, and release. Fast response guaranteed.

WhatsApp Us Now 📞 (+971) 4 236 9740

Import Code Registration vs. Renewal — What Is the Difference?

A new registration is for businesses that have never held an import code before, or whose previous code was fully cancelled and cannot be reinstated. A renewal applies to businesses with an existing active or lapsed code that simply needs to be kept current. Al Nakheel handles both — and if you are unsure which applies to you, we will check and advise before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a free zone company register an import code for clearance at Sohar Port?
Yes. Free zone companies can register for a customs import code to clear goods destined for mainland UAE. The process may differ slightly from mainland company registration. Al Nakheel can guide you through the specific pathway.
Is an import code required for every shipment or just the first one?
Your import code is a permanent registration used for all future shipments — you do not need to register again for each consignment. You simply need to keep it valid through timely renewal.
Can I use one import code to clear goods at multiple UAE ports?
Yes. A UAE Customs Importer Code is valid across all UAE ports, including Sohar Port, Jebel Ali, Khalifa Port, and others. You do not need separate registrations per port.
What if my trade license covers multiple activities — do I need multiple import codes?
Generally, one import code per legal entity is sufficient. However, if you import highly regulated goods (pharmaceuticals, chemicals, weapons, etc.) you may need specific approvals in addition to your standard code.
How much does new import code registration cost?
Government registration fees apply and vary by authority. Al Nakheel will provide a full transparent cost breakdown — covering authority fees and our service charge — before you commit to anything.