What is the customs clearance process for the Middle East e-commerce express line? The customs clearance process for the Middle East e-commerce express line focuses on compliance and efficiency. The core steps include document pre-screening, tax processing, customs inspection, and release for distribution. These processes vary depending on national policies and product types and must be adapted according to the latest 2025 policies.
The basic process begins with document pre-screening and electronic declaration. Required documents include bilingual commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping documents. In the UAE, documents are verified through the Central Integrated Customs Tariff AI system, with clearance times for apparel categories now compressed to 8 hours. Saudi mandates submission of PC and SC through the SABER platform; shipments lacking certificates are directly intercepted. Regarding taxes and duties, the UAE imposes a 5% customs duty and 5% VAT on general goods, while Saudi has customs duties ranging from 5% to 15% and a 15% VAT. Most express line logistics providers offer "double clearance including tax" services, paying duties and taxes on behalf of clients to avoid penalties for under-declaration.
During the customs inspection phase, Dubai employs X-ray scanning and AI risk control, with a spot-check rate of approximately 17% for high-risk goods. Saudi uses the SABER platform to compare certificates with physical goods, intercepting shipments if discrepancies exceed 5%. Sensitive goods also require laboratory testing. After clearance is completed, last-mile delivery to core cities like Dubai and Riyadh is achieved within 12 hours, while remote areas take 1-2 days.
Processes differ by country: Goods stored in UAE free zones are temporarily exempt from duties but require tax payment when transferred locally. Saudi's SABER certification is a two-stage process, with the PC certificate taking 7-15 days and the SC certificate 1-2 days. Other Gulf countries accept GCC certification, while food products require an additional Halal certificate. For special categories, electronic products require IECEE certification and MSDS reports, while food and cosmetics need Halal certification and Arabic labeling.
Ontask Express has specialized in Saudi door to door one-stop services for 20 years. We are fully certified and ensure hassle-free customs clearance. With overseas warehouses and self-managed Chinese delivery teams based in Jeddah and Riyadh, we offer e-commerce-friendly logistics without appointment requirements. Our safe and reliable logistics solutions empow er your business growth in Saudi Arabia.