How customs clearance works at Jebel Ali
The steps from vessel arrival to cargo release, and the documents each step needs.
The short answer
To clear an import at Jebel Ali you need an importer registered with Dubai Customs, a delivery order from the shipping line and a customs declaration (bill of entry) filed on Dubai Customs' system. Duty and VAT are paid on the declaration, the cargo may be selected for inspection, and it is released once everything is settled.
Step by step
- Importer code. The importing company needs a valid UAE trade licence with import activity and a Dubai Customs client code, registered through the Dubai Trade portal.
- Documents from the supplier. Commercial invoice with HS codes, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin, plus any permit the goods need.
- Delivery order. Once the vessel arrives and the shipping line's charges are paid, the shipping agent issues the delivery order that allows the container to be released from the port.
- Customs declaration. The bill of entry is filed on Mirsal 2 with the documents attached. The system calculates the duty and VAT.
- Payment. Duty and VAT are paid online, or through a guarantee where one applies.
- Inspection, if selected. Customs may ask to inspect the container. Allow a few extra days when that happens.
- Release and delivery. The container is collected from the port and delivered to your warehouse, our warehouse in JAFZA or your customer.
Duty and VAT
- Customs duty: 5% of the CIF value (cost, insurance and freight) for most goods. Some goods carry higher rates and some are exempt.
- GCC-origin goods: usually exempt from duty when supported by a valid certificate of origin.
- VAT: 5% on the CIF value plus duty. VAT-registered businesses can usually account for import VAT through their VAT return.
Free zone or mainland
Cargo going into JAFZA or another free zone moves under a transit declaration and does not pay duty while it stays in the free zone. Duty and VAT become payable when the goods leave the free zone for the UAE mainland. Goods can also be re-exported from the free zone to other countries without paying UAE duty.
What slows clearance down
- Missing HS codes or an invoice that does not match the packing list.
- No certificate of origin when duty depends on origin.
- Restricted goods shipped before the permit is approved.
- Shipping line charges not paid, so the delivery order is not released.
Green Light Logistics LLC handles customs clearance in Dubai and Jebel Ali with a licensed clearing agent, together with duty and VAT, free zone documents and delivery.
Talk to us about your shipment
Send the cargo details, origin and destination and we reply with a written quote, usually within one working day. Call or WhatsApp +971 56 245 9537 or email [email protected].
Last updated 3 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so we confirm the current requirements for your cargo before it moves.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are needed for customs clearance at Jebel Ali?
Commercial invoice with HS codes, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, the delivery order from the shipping line, and any permit the goods need. The importer also needs a Dubai Customs client code.
How much is customs duty in Dubai?
For most goods it is 5% of the CIF value, plus 5% VAT on the CIF value and the duty. Some goods have other rates, and GCC-origin goods with a valid certificate of origin are usually exempt.
Do I pay duty if my goods stay in JAFZA?
No. Goods held in JAFZA under a transit declaration do not pay UAE duty. Duty and VAT are paid when the goods move to the mainland.
Can you clear my container if I do not have an importer code?
Goods have to be cleared under an importer with a valid customs code. Tell us about your shipment and we will explain the options.
