New Rules for Customs Clearance in Dubai (as of October 2025)

New Rules for Custom Clearance at Dubai.

Dubai Customs has introduced several updates in 2025 to streamline trade, enhance digital compliance, and align with GCC standards. These changes primarily affect import/export declarations, documentation, and processing through the Mirsal 2 platform. Below is a summary of the key new rules, based on official announcements and guidelines. Note that while free zones (e.g., JAFZA, DAFZA) remain largely duty-free, they still require full procedural compliance.

1. Mandatory Use of 12-Digit HS Codes

•  All import and export declarations must now use the updated 12-digit Harmonized System (HS) codes, replacing the previous 8-digit system.

•  This applies to GCC intra-trade flows in phases, as outlined in Customs Notice 10/2025. It’s mandatory for all entries/exits starting early 2025, but 12-digit codes are not yet permitted for non-GCC trade, free zone movements (except specific GCC-related), transshipments, or local exports to the rest of the world—violations may incur penalties.

•  Impact: Ensures precise tariff classification and duty calculation based on CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value. Businesses must update their systems and verify codes via the Dubai Trade Portal.

2. Extended Grace Period for Hardcopy Document Submission

•  Following Customs Notice No. (04/2023) and subsequent updates, the deadline for submitting physical (hardcopy) customs declarations and supporting documents after initial online filing via Mirsal 2 has been extended from 14 days to 30 days.

•  Impact: Gives traders more flexibility to gather documents like invoices, certificates of origin, and packing lists, reducing rushed submissions and potential errors. Retain all records for 5 years to avoid fines under GCC Common Customs Law.

3. Simplified MOFA Attestation Procedures

•  Effective August 1, 2025, the manual entry of Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation numbers in the Dubai Customs Declaration System (DPP) is no longer required.

•  Attestations are now automatically validated through integrated systems, speeding up invoice processing for imports.

•  Impact: Reduces administrative burden for international shipments, especially those needing embassy or chamber of commerce stamps.

4. Revised Postal Cargo Clearance Fees

•  New tiered service charges for postal declarations based on goods value (effective 2025):

•  AED 0 for values ≤ AED 3,000.

•  AED 10 for values between AED 3,001–15,000.

•  No change for values > AED 15,000 or restricted items (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, e-cigarettes).

•  Impact: Lowers costs for small-value e-commerce shipments while maintaining fees for higher-risk or valuable cargo.

5. Enhanced Digital Services and Declarations

•  All declarations must be filed electronically via Mirsal 2; obtain a customs client code from the Dubai Trade Portal first (requires a valid UAE trade license).

•  Upcoming enhancements (rolled out by September 2025): Bulk download of up to 50 vehicle clearance certificates per declaration as a single file.

•  For cargo: Stricter inspection protocols at ports like Jebel Ali, with emphasis on pre-declaration and compliance with UAE standards (e.g., ESMA for goods safety).

•  72-Hour Arrival Rule in Free Zones: Declared goods must arrive within 72 hours of customs declaration; no alterations allowed until inspection.

6. Baggage and Passenger Rules (for Individuals)

•  Updated 2025 guidelines prohibit or restrict items like e-cigarettes, electronic hookahs, drones without prior approval, and certain foods (e.g., home-cooked meals—opt for sealed commercial packaging).

•  Medicines and limited alcohol require documentation; declare all items to avoid fines.

•  Duty-free allowances remain: Up to AED 3,000 in personal effects exempt.

General Tips for Compliance

•  Prohibited/Restricted Goods: No changes—narcotics, counterfeit items, and certain wildlife are banned; restricted items (e.g., chemicals, weapons) need prior approvals from authorities like MOFA or ESMA.

•  Duties and Exemptions: 5% standard tariff on most imports to mainland UAE (CIF basis); free zones exempt duties but track goods to avoid dutiable consumption.

•  Penalties: Non-compliance (e.g., incorrect HS codes or late submissions) can lead to fines, delays, or confiscation under GCC laws.

•  Recommendations: Use licensed customs brokers for complex shipments. Check real-time updates on the Dubai Customs website or UAE Government Portal.

For the most current details, visit https://www.dubaitrade.ae/en/ or consult a professional agent. These rules aim to boost efficiency but require proactive preparation.