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

Documents Required for Clearance

In addition to the electronic submission of the consignment into the Customs system, you will be required to submit a copy of the invoice for the 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 this, 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 exporter or whether an intervention such as an inspection is required.  If an amendment is required, the exporter should amend the declaration and re-submit the information and documentation to Customs.

Customs will notify the exporter of the amount payable on the shipment, at which point the exporter can select the method of payment to be used to settle the Customs liability. This liability may include tariffs (duty) and certain transaction fees.

Customs may place a seal on the consignment container before it is dispatched.