United Arab Emirates, e-commerce and logistics
Thinking of shipping goods to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the UK?
We’ve put together this information to help you get your head around the logistics.
Why United Arab Emirates?
The UAE is a global hub of business and has one of the fastest growing e-commerce markets in the world, forecasted to reach 17 billion U.S. dollars by 2025. 1
Consumers far outnumber online businesses in the UAE, presenting opportunities for more companies to grab their market share. Added to this, the growing tech-savvy young population indicates there is a high potential for significant growth ahead.
- Fashion
- Largest e-commerce market
- 8 million 2
- Number of e-commerce users expected in UAE by 2027
- GMT +4
- Gulf standard time
The e-commerce landscape
Continuous investment in infrastructure and the integration of e-government services are paving the way for a thriving e-commerce ecosystem. Increasing internet usage and smartphones are driving factors. According to statistics by The World Bank, UAE had a 100% internet penetration in 2020, a number not reported in other regions before. 3.
Opportunities
As the UAE moves closer towards a cashless economy, e-payment platforms are increasingly popular. An integrated shopping platform will help to stay ahead of the trend. To cater to the local market, luxury brands have launched Arabic language sites to attract new customers who may have previously avoided online shopping.
Predicted global e-commerce growth rate
E-commerce market share
Logistics
The most important requirement when shipping to the UAE is that items must be sent via an approved carrier; otherwise, they will not be allowed into the country. Goods must also be checked against a positive list of prohibited items and be properly packaged to ensure safe arrival.
The essentials
| Transit Times | From 4 to 6 working days |
| Maximum Dimensions | 120cm × 60cm × 60cm |
| Maximum Weight | 30kg |
| Maximum Container Value | N/A |
| Low-Value Limit | AED 1,000 |
| Duty | Variable based on product; applicable on orders over AED 300 |
| DDP Available | No (Subject to minimum volumes) |
| DDP Fee | As agreed |
| Clearance Fee | As agreed |
Good to know
The taxation system in the UAE is designed to be favourable for business and investment. Keeping taxes low allows businesses to remain competitive and encourages foreign direct investment into the country.
What our experts say:
“With increasing internet and mobile phone penetration rates, the future of e-commerce in the UAE looks promising. Reliable logistics will help you secure a foothold ready for predicted growth in the future.”
Ben Bagnulo, SEO, SAMOS