1. 🚢 Mandatory Pre-Shipment Rules

• UAE introduced Advance Cargo Manifest (ACM) system.
• Under the “No Manifest, No Load” policy, shipments must be pre-approved before loading.
• Without approval, cargo cannot be shipped to UAE ports.

👉 This applies to:

• Imports
• Transshipments
• Freight remaining onboard (FROB)

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2. 📑 Required Shipping Documents

Every shipment must include:

• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of Lading (sea) / Airway Bill (air)
• Certificate of origin
• Import permits (if required)

Missing or incorrect documents = delays, fines, or rejection.

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3. 💰 Customs Duty & Taxes

Typical charges:

• Customs duty: ~5% of CIF value
• VAT: 5% on total (goods + duty)

⚠️ Exceptions:

• Higher duty for alcohol, tobacco, etc.
• Some essential goods = reduced/zero duty
• Free zones = duty suspended until entering mainland

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4. 🛃 Customs Clearance Rules

• All goods must pass UAE customs before delivery
• Authorities require:
  • Correct HS code classification
  • Accurate declared value
  • Proper documentation

Errors can cause:

• Shipment holds
• Penalties
• Re-export or destruction (in serious cases)

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5. 🚫 Restricted & Prohibited Items

Certain goods need approval or are banned, such as:

• Drugs & narcotics
• Counterfeit goods
• Some medicines
• Weapons & hazardous materials

Other items (food, cosmetics, electronics) may require product registration before shipping.

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6. 🏢 Importer Requirements

To ship commercially into UAE, you typically need:

• Valid trade license
• Importer code (customs registration)
• Compliance with UAE Customs system

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7. ⚡ Shipping Speed & Efficiency

• UAE ports (like Dubai, Abu Dhabi) are highly efficient
• Clearance can take 1–3 days if documents are correct
• Delays mostly happen due to paperwork issues

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8. 🔄 Special Cases

• Temporary imports allowed without duty (for exhibitions, etc.)
• Goods for re-export may get exemptions
• Alternative port routing is allowed with controlled transfer procedures