Any goods imported into Abu Dhabi must be declared to Customs in accordance with the Gulf Co-Operation Council under the GCC Law.  In order to make such a declaration, the importer is required to be present at a Customs post with the documentation relating to the import consignment so that the details of the import consignment can be verified, and any tariffs due can be paid.

Clearing Agents can become registered users of the Customs Clearance System and they normally provide professional Customs clearance services to importers and exporters. These services typically include preparation of Customs declarations and its submission to Customs. Clearing agents in this respect act as an intermediary between importers and Customs.

Documents required for Clearance

In addition to capturing and submitting the consignment particulars into the Customs System, you could be required to submit the following documents:

1.   Bill of Lading or Airway bill/ Consignment Note. (Not applicable at land borders)

2.   Delivery Order.

3.   Commercial Invoice.

4.   Certificate of Origin.

5.   Packing List.

6.   Manifest.

7.   Import License and Release Order (Restricted Goods).

Clearance Procedures

The particulars of the shipment must be captured onto the Customs Al Dhabi Computer System and submitted for processing. In addition to electronic submission, the documents described above must be presented to Customs for verification.

Customs will advise whether the clearance has been accepted, whether it requires amendment by the importer making the declaration, or whether intervention such as an inspection is required.  If an amendment is required, the importer must amend the declaration and re-submit the information and documentation to Customs.

Customs will notify the importer of the amount due on the consignment. At this point, the importer can select which method of payment to settle the Customs liability. This liability may include tariffs (duties) and certain transaction fees.

Once the payment has been verified, Customs will release the cargo to the importer.