Documents required for Clearance

Any goods imported into Abu Dhabi must be declared to Customs in accordance with the Gulf Co-Operation Council 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 of the import consignment can be verified, and any tariffs due can be paid.

It is recommended that a Customs Clearing Agent (or Broker) be used to make your Customs declaration. Clearing Agents are registered as authorized Customs System Users and are can potentially finish the declaration quicker.

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

1.   Bill of Lading or Air waybill.

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 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 importer or whether an intervention such as an inspection is required.  If an amendment is required, the importer should amend the declaration and re-submit the information and documentation to Customs.

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

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