How do I import goods into the UAE, can I do this from a freezone as well as a mainland LLC?

How do I import goods into the UAE, can I do this from a freezone as well as a mainland LLC?

There are two types of jurisdictions in UAE. Freezones and Mainland UAE. A Freezone trading company can import goods (depending on their business activity) to the Freezone area however they are not permitted to import into the mainland area of the UAE without a valid LLC licence.

As goods can only be imported into the mainland by an LLC entity the options available are as follows:

1. Incorporate a DED mainland LLC with the relevant trading activity. The activity is dependant on the type of goods being imported.
   Relevant approvals maybe required in some cases such as Dubai Municipality approvals for food, MOHAP approval for medical supplies etc.
   
2. Use a Distribution agent to purchase the goods within the Freezone and therefore the distribution agent would physically import the goods under their name and then own the goods. There are positives and negatives by doing it this way.
   
3. Appoint a commercial agent. This agent can import the goods from an external country. The commercial agent will have control of the goods.

There are considerations to take into account. Feel free to contact PRO Partner Group for more information.