Documents required to import gold to Dubai | A Complete Guide in 2025

Dubai, known as the “City of Gold,” is one of the world’s most profitable gold markets. If you’re planning to import gold to Dubai understanding the necessary documentation is a key factor to ensure a smooth and legal process. Whether you’re an investor, jeweler, or trader, having the right paperwork is essential for customs clearance and compliance with UAE regulations. In this guide, we’ll outline the key documents required to import gold into Dubai and how Gold Buyers Africa can assist you throughout the process.

Documents required to import gold to Dubai

1 Import License. An import license is required to legally import gold into Dubai and this license is given by the UAE’s Federal Customs Authority to ensure that the importer is authorized to conduct international trade it is most important during customs clearance.

2 Certificate of Origin. This certificate is used to verify that the gold being imported originates from the declared country of origin and it helps to ensure the gold is legally mined and complies with UAE’s import regulations.

3 Commercial Invoice. This invoice is a bill provided by the supplier detailing the price, quantity, description, and value of the gold being imported and it is a key factor during customs clearance and also used for taxation purposes. Documents required to import gold to Dubai

4 Assay Certificate. This assay certificate is needed because it proves the purity of the gold, is issued by an authorized assayer or laboratory, and certifies that the gold meets the required purity standards for the UAE market like 22K and 24K.

5 Packing List. This list is needed because it provides a detailed packing list that includes information about the contents of the shipment like the weight and description of the gold items which is necessary for customs to verify that the shipment matches the details provided on the invoice.

6 Customs Declaration Form. The customs declaration form is used to declare the gold being imported to UAE Customs which information about the quantity, value, and type of gold being imported, and this form is submitted electronically through the Dubai Customs system.

7 Import Customs Duty Payment Receipt. This receipt confirms that the applicable import duties and taxes on the gold have been paid to Dubai Customs and the payment needed during the clearance and release of gold.

8 Trade License. This license is needed when you are importing gold for business purposes, a valid trade license from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) is required this license shows that the importer is a registered business entity authorized to engage in the gold trade. Documents required to import gold to Dubai

Steps on How to Import Gold from Africa to Dubai

Importing gold from Africa to Dubai has specific processes to comply with international trade laws to ensure the gold’s authenticity and smooth logistics.

1 Identify and Partner with Licensed Gold Exporters in Africa. Make sure you do research and select reliable gold sellers or mining companies in African countries like Ghana, Uganda, or Tanzania by verifying the seller’s export license and documentation to ensure legitimacy and check if the gold is conflict-free and comes with a Certificate of Origin this will help to ensure that the gold is mined ethically and complies with international trade laws.

2 Obtain an Import License in Dubai. Make sure your business is registered with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) to obtain a trade license for importing precious metals when you register with Dubai Customs an importer code is provided which is mandatory for clearing gold this will help you legally authorize you to import gold into Dubai and trade within its markets.

3 Secure Proper Documentation for Export and Import. In Africa, make sure the following documents are obtained: Certificate of Origin (proving the gold’s source), Export license from the seller, Assay report (verifying gold purity and weight), Commercial invoice (with details of the gold’s value and transaction). While in Dubai prepare a customs declaration form, Airway bill, or bill of lading (proof of shipment) this helps to ensure compliance with customs requirements in both Africa and Dubai.

4 Use Trusted Logistics Services for Shipping. Make sure you choose a reputable logistics company specializing in transporting gold always opt for air freight as the safest method, with insurance, armed escorts, and real-time tracking because it safeguards the shipment against theft or damage during transit.

5 Complete Customs Clearance in Dubai. Make sure you submit all required documents to Dubai Customs upon the arrival of the shipment and pay all the applicable customs duties or fees based on the gold’s value and weight to ensure the shipment meets UAE’s quality and authenticity standards before release. This helps to ensure the gold is legally cleared for entry into Dubai and ready for sale or further processing. Documents required to import gold to Dubai

 Dubai Customs Rules for Gold

Dubai has strict customs regulations governing the import and export of gold to maintain transparency, prevent illegal trade, and ensure compliance with international standards.

1 Declare Gold at Customs

1 Rule. All Individuals or businesses importing or exporting gold must declare it at Dubai Customs upon entry or exit.

Details. Any gold exceeding the value threshold (typically 60,000 AED or equivalent) must be reported failure to declare may result in penalties or confiscation this is to ensure transparency in gold trade and prevent money laundering or smuggling.

2 Provide Supporting Documentation

1 Rule. All gold imports or exports must be accompanied by valid documentation to prove authenticity, origin, and legality. Required Documents Certificate of Origin, Assay report confirming purity 24K, Commercial invoice specifying quantity, value, and type of gold, Export/import licenses for businesses its purpose is to help verify the gold’s legality and compliance with trade laws.

3 Pay Applicable Customs Duties and Fees

1 Rule. All Importers must pay customs duties as per UAE regulations unless exempted.

Details. Gold jewelry typically attracts a 5% import duty unless exemptions apply to GCC nationals and raw gold bars or coins are generally duty-free this helps to ensure proper taxation and contributes to the UAE’s economic regulations.

4 Comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Regulations

Rule: Importers and exporters must comply with UAE’s anti-money laundering laws to prevent illegal activities in the gold trade.

Requirements:

Declare the source of funds used for purchasing the gold submit evidence of transparent transactions and ensure the gold is conflict-free always register with Dubai Customs and other regulatory bodies. This will help you prevent financial crimes and ensure ethical trading practices.

In conclusion, Importing gold to Dubai requires strict adherence to regulatory guidelines, and missing a single document can delay your shipment or lead to legal complications. With years of experience in gold trading and export, Gold Buyers Africa is your trusted partner in ensuring a smooth and legally compliant gold importation process. Contact us today for professional assistance in handling all the required documentation and making your gold importation to Dubai seamless and profitable. Documents required to import gold to Dubai