Import from Dubai to UK

At the end of 2023, the total UK imports from Dubai amounted to £9.7 billion. Trade from the United Arab Emirates to the UK increased by 21.4% in 2023, and 40% of all imports were goods (totalling £4 billion.)

As the UK’s third largest trading partner outside of Europe, relations between Dubai and the UK present business owners with profitable import opportunities.

Why import from Dubai?

Dubai's strategic geographical position makes it an ideal export hub for UK businesses. Importers interested in diversifying their offerings with high-quality products can receive goods from Dubai via their robust infrastructure.

Strategic geographic location

Located at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, Dubai offers access to a wide array of markets. Its position allows for shorter, more efficient shipping routes to the UK, which can significantly reduce logistics costs.

Robust infrastructure

Dubai's state-of-the-art infrastructure (which includes one of the largest airports and seaports in the world) streamlines the process of shipping goods. Coupled with the UAE's favourable customs policies, which are designed to facilitate quick turnover at borders, UK importers can benefit from efficient supply chain processes. The UAE also has well-defined customs regulations to protect the quality of goods and prevent the entry of illegal items.

High-quality products

Dubai is a pivotal gateway for premium goods. The UAE's significant exports include gold, diamonds, and aluminium, and the top 5 main imports from Dubai to UK in 2023 were as follows:

Refined oil (£2.0 billion)
Mechanical power generators (intermediate) (£583.2 million)
Jewellery (£225.3 million or 5.7%)
Telecoms & sound equipment (capital) (£181.8 million)
Non-ferrous metals (£88.8 million)

Our Services

The UAE offers a business-friendly environment with incentives like 100% foreign ownership in free zones. For UK businesses, this could mean easier market entry and support from a strong banking sector. But you could stand to save more. Use Freight Broker’s quick, convenient cost comparison service, and we’ll find you the best shipping rates for your imports from Dubai.

How to import from Dubai to UK

Find the right commodity code

Any goods you import from Dubai will require a commodity code. These codes can be used by you to make declarations and to see the amount payable for import VAT and duty. However, they will also be used by customs authorities to determine what the goods are, if they follow safety regulations and whether they’re legal. Businesses looking for the correct commodity code for their goods should use the UK Government Trade Tariff.

Find your EORI number

A business importing goods into the UK from Dubai needs to apply for an EORI number using the government’s online service: you’ll receive your EORI number a few days after the application is submitted. An Economic Operator Registration Identification Number (EORI) allows UK customs authorities to identify the country’s imported and exported goods.

Check if you need a licence

To import goods from Dubai, you may need a licence. UK businesses planning to import items like controlled drugs, weapons (e.g. knives, swords, guns), nuclear material, or waste will need to determine the specific licence or certificate they need according to UK government guidelines. Some goods cannot be exported out of Dubai. Dubai customs deems the following goods to be prohibited/restricted from exportation:

Live animals, plants, fertilisers and insecticides
Ammunitions, explosives, and fireworks
Pharmaceutical products and Medical/ Surgical instruments and machines
Print materials, publications, and media products
Nuclear energy-related products
New tyres/E-cigarettes, and electronic hookah
Transmitters and radio equipment
Alcoholic beverages
Foodstuffs, personal care and cosmetic products
Rough diamonds

Include full details on invoices and labels

Your goods should be correctly labelled with the following information:

The sender and receiver of the goods
A thorough description of the goods being imported
Total value of goods
Quantity of goods
Commodity codes

Shipping Options

Your available freight options will depend on the quantity and value of imported goods. Sea freight import from Dubai to UK Sea freight is the main method of transportation for high-volume goods weighing more than 100 kg. Smaller shipments can be imported in a shared container, but a full container may be needed for large shipments. Air freight import from the Dubai to UKGoods imported via air freight from Dubai can take anywhere from 3-7 working days to arrive. This freight option is suitable for smaller shipments and can be delivered directly to your chosen address.

Customs and Duties

Importing goods into the UK from Dubai necessitates the payment of duty and VAT. Such payments are required to release your goods from customs. Businesses can hire a freight broker to help them calculate the costs of customs and duties. Or, you can use the UK Government Trade Tariff to find out what you owe.

Paying duty

Any import from Dubai to UK will have an assigned duty rate, the amount payable dependent on the goods you’re importing. Use the UK Government Trade Tariff online service to determine what you owe.

Paying VAT

UK Businesses will also need to pay VAT to import from Dubai. The current UK rate is 20% and is owed on the shipping costs, customs duty and value of the goods. Once you or a freight broker have paid the required duty and VAT fees, your goods will be released from customs.

Tips for successful importing from Dubai

Leverage free-trade zones

Utilising Dubai’s Free Trade Zones (FTZs) can offer substantial benefits, including tax exemptions on imports and exports. Understanding the policies governing these zones will provide strategic benefits, especially in cost management.

Select the right importer

Choosing a competent, reliable importer in Dubai can significantly affect your success. It’s important to evaluate potential partners based on their experience, business model, and customer reviews.

Build relationships via networking

Developing strong relationships with local businesses and trade associations can provide valuable insights. Networking can help uncover the best practices, market trends, and potential partnership opportunities, all of which are beneficial for long-term success.

FAQs

What types of products can I import from Dubai to UK?

Goods you can import from Dubai to UK include:

Petroleum and related products
Gold and jewellery
Aluminium products
Diamonds
Broadcasting equipment
Apparel and textiles
Construction materials
High-tech security and cybersecurity solutions
Renewable energy equipment
Foodstuffs

How long does it take to import goods from Dubai to UK?

The time it takes for goods to arrive from Dubai to the UK will depend on the freight option. Goods delivered by sea can take 5-6 weeks to arrive, while air freight can take 5-7 days.

What are the different shipping options available for importing from Dubai?

Sea freight and air freight are the main shipping options for importing goods to the UK.

What duties and taxes will I need to pay when importing from Dubai?

The amount of VAT, customs duty and excise duty you will have to pay to receive your goods will depend on the goods themselves, your chosen shipping method and their country of origin.

What are the risks associated with importing goods from Dubai?

Cultural and compliance misunderstandings
Differences in business practices and legal frameworks between the UAE and the UK could lead to misunderstandings. UK import laws might interpret commercial invoices or product certifications differently from UAE exports.

This risk underscores the importance of having legal and trade advisors who understand the regulatory landscapes of both regions.

Market and financial risks
The fluctuating exchange rates and market demand pose financial risks that can affect the cost-effectiveness of importing from Dubai. Changes in currency values could alter the total cost of purchases and affect profit margins.

Do I need to be registered for VAT when importing from Dubai?

Businesses importing goods into the UK from Dubai must register with HMRC for VAT. However, if you’re importing goods as an individual, you do not need to register.

How can I get a quote for shipping costs from Dubai to the UK?

With our easy-to-use form, customers can compare the price of international freight shipping. Simply tell us your shipping destination and point of origin, together with the applicable postcodes for importing and exporting. Provide your cargo's length, height, breadth, and weight (those comparing pallet shipping prices must also choose from our selection of pre-established pallet sizes). Just choose "compare prices" once you've entered all the right details about your shipment. Next, we'll show you the best shipping quotes from couriers. Getting the most competitive prices is made quick and simple with Freight Broker!