The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation (MoFAIC) passed a decision in cabinet resolution no. 38 for 2022 concerning the imposition of fees to attest documents, invoices, and certificates of origin for imports in the UAE.

All imports in the UAE must be verified via MoFAIC-attested invoice from 1 February 2023.

According to the MoFAIC's decision, a fee of AED 150 would be levied for the verification of invoices related to imports with an average value of AED 10,000 or more.

Additionally, the decision specifies that the MoFAIC will enforce a regulatory fine of AED 500 on individuals who neglect to confirm certificates of origin and invoices for imported products after 14 days from the date of entry of goods into the UAE. More fines will be forced in the event of rehashed infringement and will be moved to the Treasury Single Account.

Within 15 days of the notification date, each interested party may file a written grievance with the Ministry against the administrative fine that was imposed. A decision on the complaint will be rendered within 30 days after submission, provided that it is justified and accompanied by all pertinent proof.

However, the new rules constitute certain exemptions as well. The exemption is always available for the entry of goods that fall below AED 10,000. The import of goods from categories like personal imports, goods brought in free zones, and import of goods from Gulf Cooperation Council Countries are exempted.

The MoFAIC has also introduced an electronic online process to make the process hassle-free for the concerned individuals. The automated commercial invoice attestation  provides digital attestation for commercial invoices only issued in the UAE or abroad within 12 minutes.