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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ชCan a buyer in United Arab Emirates import from Saudi Arabia?๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ

We track no embargo or sectoral sanctions programme covering this country pair. The ordinary rules still apply: customs, VAT and any product-specific permits in United Arab Emirates.

Tariffs and trade agreements

Yes: GCC. Preferential or zero tariffs typically apply to qualifying goods with proof of origin.

  • GCC: Customs union among the six Gulf states with a common external tariff and unified customs administration. Source

Import requirements in United Arab Emirates

Import VAT in United Arab Emirates (B2B)
Import VAT of 5% is charged in United Arab Emirates on the goods plus freight plus duty. FTA UAE Duty depends on the HS code; put both into the landed-cost calculator.
Customs identity: Importer code from the emirate's customs authority
Each emirate issues its own importer code against a valid trade licence; a mainland licence and a free-zone licence are not interchangeable. Dubai Customs
Documents that travel with the shipment
Commercial invoice ยท Packing list ยท Transport document (CMR, bill of lading or air waybill) ยท Customs declaration, filed by you or your broker ยท Proof of origin, when claiming a preferential duty rate

Reviewed 2026-07-21. Full guide: how to import into United Arab Emirates.

547 suppliers in Saudi Arabia on record

Manufacturers and wholesalers based in Saudi Arabia, each card carrying the open-record facts we hold and the source behind them.

Frequently asked questions

Can a company in United Arab Emirates buy from a supplier in Saudi Arabia?
We track no embargo or sectoral sanctions programme covering this country pair. The ordinary rules still apply: customs, VAT and any product-specific permits in United Arab Emirates.
What VAT applies when importing from Saudi Arabia into United Arab Emirates?
Import VAT of 5% is charged in United Arab Emirates on the goods plus freight plus duty.
Do United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia share a trade agreement?
Yes: GCC. Preferential or zero tariffs typically apply to qualifying goods with proof of origin.
What does a United Arab Emirates buyer need to clear customs?
A business importing into United Arab Emirates needs a Importer code from the emirate's customs authority. Each emirate issues its own importer code against a valid trade licence; a mainland licence and a free-zone licence are not interchangeable. A normal commercial shipment also travels with: Commercial invoice, Packing list, Transport document (CMR, bill of lading or air waybill), Customs declaration, filed by you or your broker, Proof of origin, when claiming a preferential duty rate.
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Selling the other way? Can a buyer in Saudi Arabia import from United Arab Emirates?

Can a buyer in United Arab Emirates import from Saudi Arabia? Sanctions, tariffs and VAT ยท Hell of a Partner