How to Import Gold from Ghana to the UAE Dubai?

The UAE stands as the largest destination for African gold, with Dubai at its core as a global hub for gold imports and re-exports. Over the years, the gold trade in Dubai has grown rapidly, supported by its world-class infrastructure, free zones, and regulatory frameworks.

With the advent of the DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) Free Zone and the implementation of global due diligence standards, gold trading in Dubai has expanded beyond physical gold bars and jewelry into highly regulated wholesale and digital platforms.

Import Gold from Ghana to UAE

Gold trading in the UAE presents significant opportunities for verified buyers and sellers. The UAE serves as a hub for raw gold, bullion of 99.5%+ purity, and refined gold products. It is important to note that gold dust, nuggets, or semi-processed gold are not accepted by Dubai Customs. Only bars and refined products with proper certification are allowed entry.

To ensure smooth customs clearance, all necessary legal documentation — including the Certificate of Origin, proof of taxes paid in the country of export, and compliance certificates — must be provided.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC FZ, a licensed and registered wholesale trader of gold in Dubai, facilitates secure importation under OECD Due Diligence Guidance, DMCC Rules, and UAE Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regulations.

Transport Security & Customs in UAE

Internationally recognized secure transport providers such as Brinks, Transguard, and G4S are approved in Dubai for handling gold shipments. These companies ensure the secure transfer of shipments from the designated international airport to approved refineries or bonded vaults in the UAE.

Dubai has around 14 major gold refineries, each subject to DMCC Good Delivery Standards and monitored under SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency) guidelines.

Steps for Exporting Gold from Ghana to the UAE

Corporate Offer – The miner/supplier in Ghana sends a corporate offer to Emirates and Emeralds LLC FZ.
KYC & Due Diligence – Both buyer and seller complete Know-Your-Customer (KYC) documentation and AML/CFT checks, including proof of funds and corporate registration.
Export Documentation – The seller obtains all required export licenses, permits, and tax clearance in Ghana.
Logistics & Security – Gold bars are shipped via secure freight, with prior notice given to the buyer at least 72 hours before shipment.
Arrival in UAE – Emirates and Emeralds LLC FZ, together with Brinks/Transguard/G4S, receives the consignment at Dubai airport.
Customs Clearance & Refining – The shipment undergoes customs clearance and is transported to the assigned refinery under DMCC regulations.
Weighing & Sealing – The refinery weighs and seals the bars in compliance with SIRA guidelines. Any tampering requires re-verification.
Final Invoice & Payment – The seller issues a commercial invoice. The buyer (Emirates and Emeralds LLC FZ) confirms with their bank, and payment is made within 3 business days.

Required Documentation for Import

Shipment Contract Number
Proforma Commercial Invoice
Certificate of Origin & Certificate of Circulation
Original Bill of Lading / Bill of Entry (BOE) / Customs Declaration
Air Waybill marked as “Air Freight Pre-Paid” with gross & net weight
Packing List with serial numbers, weights, and box count
Export License & Customs Permit from Ghana
Certificate of Ownership confirming lawful origin
Insurance Certificate
UAE Customs Code for raw gold ingots: 71081210

Additional Compliance Requirements in the UAE

goAML Reporting – All gold imports must be declared through the UAE’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) goAML system.
Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Disclosure – Importers must declare the UBO of both buyer and seller companies.
OECD Due Diligence – Proof that the gold is of non-conflict origin is mandatory.
Sanctions & Watchlists – Screening against UN, EU, US, and UAE sanction lists is required.

Enhanced Requirements for High-Risk Jurisdictions (e.g., DRC Region)

When sourcing gold from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or neighboring high-risk countries, the following are required:

UN Clearance Certificate
Interpol Clearance Certificate
Third-party refinery test report verifying purity and confirming non-conflict origin

Conclusion

By adhering to UAE’s AML/CFT, DMCC, and OECD due diligence regulations, importers ensure that transactions remain transparent, traceable, and compliant.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC FZ, as a licensed and legitimate gold importer and wholesaler in Dubai, plays a crucial role in facilitating secure and compliant gold imports from Ghana and other African nations.

Emirates and Emeralds LLC-FZ

How to Import Gold from Ghana to the UAE Dubai?