How to Import Gold from Africa to Dubai

How to Import Gold from Africa to Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide

Dubai is one of the world’s largest hubs for the gold trade, serving as the primary gateway for African gold entering global markets. Over the years, imports from Ghana, Uganda, Congo, Tanzania, and Mali have grown significantly, creating opportunities for verified buyers and investors.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ, a licensed wholesaler and importer of precious metals in Dubai, specializes in the legal and compliant importation of gold from Africa. The company operates under the strict regulatory framework of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), UAE Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws, and OECD Due Diligence Guidance for responsible supply chains.

Step-by-Step Gold Import Process (Importer’s Role)

Supplier Agreement

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ sources gold only from licensed and verified miners/exporters in Africa. All suppliers must present valid mining licenses, export permits, and certificates of origin.

Due Diligence & KYC

Both parties complete Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and due diligence checks, including proof of ownership, tax clearance, and non-conflict origin confirmation. Screening is done against UN, EU, US, and UAE sanction/watchlists.

Pre-Shipment Documentation

The African supplier provides the necessary export permits, certificate of origin, assay certificate, insurance, and waybill.

Arrival in Dubai Airport

Once the consignment arrives, Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ takes full responsibility for:

Customs declaration and clearance under UAE Customs and DMCC regulations.
Filing the mandatory declaration in the goAML system with the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
Settling any import duties, VAT (if applicable), and customs fees.
Secure Logistics

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ engages approved high-security logistics companies (e.g., Brinks, Transguard, G4S) to transport the gold from the airport to assigned refineries or bonded vaults.

Refining & Verification

The gold is delivered to a DMCC-approved refinery. It is weighed, sealed, and assayed under the supervision of the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA). Any irregularities require re-verification.

Final Settlement

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ issues or accepts the final commercial invoice, and upon bank confirmation, transfers payment to the supplier. Ownership officially transfers at this stage.

Legal & Regulatory Requirements in Dubai

Import License – All importers must be licensed by DMCC or relevant Dubai authorities.
goAML Reporting – All gold imports must be declared in the UAE FIU’s goAML system.
UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) Declaration – Disclosure of beneficial ownership of both buyer and seller companies is mandatory.
OECD Due Diligence – Importers must confirm the gold is conflict-free and sourced responsibly.
SIRA Compliance – Secure transport and refinery handling must follow UAE’s SIRA security protocols.
Customs Code – Raw gold ingots must be declared under code 71081210.
VAT – While gold for wholesale supply may qualify for VAT reverse charge, importers must follow UAE FTA rules carefully.

Enhanced Documentation for High-Risk Regions (e.g., DRC & Great Lakes)

Imports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and surrounding regions require additional compliance:

UN Clearance Certificate
Interpol Clearance Certificate
Third-party refinery assay confirming purity and origin
Proof of tax payment at origin

Why Partner with Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ

Licensed gold importer & wholesaler in Dubai Free Zone
Fully compliant with DMCC, SIRA, AML/CFT, and OECD regulations
Established partnerships with international security logistics firms
Direct access to Dubai refineries and wholesale markets
End-to-end responsibility from airport clearance to refinery delivery

Conclusion

Importing gold from Africa to Dubai is highly profitable but also heavily regulated. Compliance, transparency, and security are key to safeguarding investments.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ ensures smooth and compliant imports by taking full responsibility in Dubai — from airport clearance to secure refinery processing. With its strong regulatory foundation and global logistics partnerships, the company provides a trusted gateway for African gold entering Dubai’s thriving market.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ

How to Import Gold from Africa to Dubai