United Arab Emirates Import Guide

Market Overview

Import Considerations

• Many food imports require registration of the product and the importing entity with the relevant municipal or federal food control authority before customs clearance.
• Product labelling generally needs to include information such as ingredients, production and expiry dates, and country of origin, often in Arabic in addition to English.
• Halal considerations may apply to certain food categories and buyers should confirm requirements relevant to their specific product.

Product Categories

• Whole and ground spices
• Pulses and grains
• Dried fruits and nuts
• Processed food products

Documentation

• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Certificate of Origin
• Health certificate / Certificate of Analysis, depending on product and importer requirement
• Halal certificate, where applicable to the product category

Regulatory Considerations

• Food control authorities (municipal-level, such as Dubai Municipality, and federal bodies) regulate food safety and labelling requirements.
• Import requirements can vary between emirates in some respects, so buyers and exporters should confirm requirements for the specific port of entry.

Logistics

Ports

• Jebel Ali Port (Dubai)
• Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi)
• Port of Sharjah

Buyer Considerations

• Confirm which specific emirate's food control authority the shipment will be registered with, as requirements can differ.
• Clarify Arabic labelling requirements and required certificate formats before production.
• Ask whether the shipment is for local consumption or re-export, as this can affect documentation.

Common Mistakes

• Assuming a single UAE-wide requirement applies uniformly across all emirates without confirming the destination port's authority.
• Omitting Arabic labelling where it is required for the product category.
• Not confirming Halal certification needs before production for products where it is expected by the buyer or market.