Key Import Requirements for Businesses with a Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai

Dubai has positioned itself as a global hub for food imports, with a growing population and a strong demand for both local and international food products. If you hold a Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai, you are permitted to import, store, and distribute food items across the UAE.

However, operating in the food import sector is not just about sourcing products. It requires full compliance with strict regulations set by Dubai Municipality, the UAE government, and customs authorities.

In this blog, you will learn the essential import requirements for businesses holding a Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai, including product approvals, labeling, documentation, and registration processes.

Understanding the Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai

A Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai is a commercial license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a relevant free zone authority. It allows a company to:

• Import food products from international suppliers

• Store food items in warehouses

• Distribute food to wholesalers, supermarkets, or directly to consumers

• Engage in B2B or B2C food sales within the UAE

This license is mandatory if your business involves handling or selling packaged or bulk food items.

Regulatory Authorities Involved

Several government departments and authorities oversee food importation in Dubai:

• Dubai Municipality (DM) – Responsible for food safety, labeling, and product approval

• Dubai Customs – Manages border clearance and import duties

• Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) – Oversees agricultural and animal-based product imports

• Dubai Chamber – Issues Certificates of Origin (if required)

Understanding the role of each authority ensures smoother import processes and compliance.

Key Import Requirements for Foodstuff Trading Businesses

1. Register Your Business with Dubai Municipality’s FIRS

Before importing any food product, businesses must register with the Food Import and Re-export System (FIRS) under Dubai Municipality.

Why FIRS Registration Matters:

• It enables you to upload product details for import approval

• It allows tracking and classification of imported items

• It is mandatory for customs clearance of food shipments

Required documents:

• Valid trade license (Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai)

• Emirates ID and passport copy of the owner/manager

• Company contact details and address

• Warehouse or storage facility details

2. Register Each Food Product Before Importing

Every food item you plan to import must be registered on the FIRS platform.

Details required for registration:

• Product name in English and Arabic

• Full list of ingredients

• Manufacturer details

• Country of origin

• Shelf life and storage instructions

• Nutritional information

• Product label in Arabic and English

Only registered products can be cleared through Dubai Customs. Incorrect or missing information can delay or block your shipment.

3. Comply with Labeling Requirements

Proper labeling is critical for product approval. Labels must be clear, accurate, and comply with UAE food labeling laws.

Mandatory Label Details:

• Product name in Arabic and English

• Brand name and logo (if applicable)

• Country of origin

• Manufacturing and expiry dates (in day/month/year format)

• Net weight or volume

• List of ingredients

• Nutritional facts

• Name and address of manufacturer

• Storage conditions

• Allergen warnings

Products that do not comply may be rejected at the port or removed from shelves.

4. Ensure Proper Packaging and Shelf Life

Dubai Municipality enforces strict rules on food safety. Packaging must be tamper-proof, hygienic, and suitable for the food type.

Shelf Life Rules:

• Perishable goods (like dairy and meat) must have at least 50% of shelf life remaining at the time of import

• Non-perishable packaged goods must have a minimum of 6 months of shelf life unless otherwise specified

Make sure your products meet these requirements to avoid confiscation or fines.

5. Use a Certified Customs Broker

Clearing food products through Dubai Customs can be complex. Most importers work with licensed customs brokers who help with:

• Preparing import declarations

• Paying customs duties and VAT

• Handling clearance paperwork

• Liaising with Dubai Municipality inspectors

Using a professional customs broker ensures faster clearance and fewer errors.

6. Apply for Import Permits (If Required)

Some food products need prior import permits, especially:

• Organic foods

• Infant food or baby formula

• Meat and poultry products

• Animal-derived food products (like cheese, eggs, etc.)

• Health supplements or fortified foods

These permits are usually issued by MOCCAE and require additional documentation such as:

• Health certificates

• Halal certificates

• Lab test reports

• Country-specific approvals

Always check in advance whether your product requires such documentation.

7. Comply with Import Duties and Taxes

UAE has a 5% customs duty on most imported goods, including food products, unless they fall under a duty exemption (e.g., GCC origin goods).

Additionally, there is a 5% VAT on most food items unless exempted (like basic food essentials under certain lists).

Make sure to calculate these costs when pricing your imported goods.

8. Maintain Proper Storage Facilities

Once food arrives in Dubai, it must be stored in a facility that meets health and safety regulations. These include:

• Temperature-controlled warehouses for perishable goods

• Pest control and hygiene compliance

• Approved by Dubai Municipality or relevant free zone authority

Improper storage can lead to fines, spoilage, or license suspension.

Post-Import Inspections and Monitoring

Even after your food products are imported, your business is subject to inspections from Dubai Municipality.

They may check for:

• Expired products on shelves

• Unregistered or mislabelled items

• Improper storage practices

• Fake or altered packaging

Keeping your documentation in order and ensuring strict compliance helps avoid penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

How Business Setup Consultants Can Help

Starting a food import business in Dubai can be challenging for newcomers. Working with business setup consultants ensures that:

• You get the correct Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai

• Your FIRS registration and product approvals are handled smoothly

• Label translations and documentation meet compliance standards

• You receive advice on selecting reliable customs brokers and storage providers

• You stay updated on regulatory changes from Dubai Municipality or MOCCAE

This can save you time, money, and stress, especially if you’re importing at scale.

Timeline to Start Importing

1. Week 1–2: Get your Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai

2. Week 3: Register on FIRS and apply for product approvals

3. Week 4: Finalize labels and prepare shipments

4. Week 5: Clear customs with a licensed broker

5. Ongoing: Store, distribute, and renew registrations annually

Staying Compliant is Key to Success

Getting a Foodstuff Trading License in Dubai is only the first step toward running a successful food import business. To maintain smooth operations, you must understand and follow the city’s comprehensive import guidelines.

From product registration and labeling to customs clearance and warehousing, each stage requires careful attention and accurate documentation. Non-compliance can result in shipment delays, fines, or even business suspension.

By staying informed, using reliable partners, and keeping your processes aligned with the law, you can grow a profitable food trading business in one of the world’s fastest-growing food markets.