When shipping exhibition samples from China to Dubai, it is essential to strike a balance between compliance and timeliness to ensure the smooth arrival of the exhibits. Below are the key points to consider.
Customs policies and document preparation are the primary steps. Dubai requires exhibition samples to undergo temporary import declaration, involving a security deposit of 5% of the goods' value (refundable after the exhibition). Starting in 2025, HS codes have been upgraded from 8 to 12 digits, so it is necessary to confirm the accurate code in advance on the Dubai Customs website. Essential documents must not be overlooked: the commercial invoice must state "Sample for Exhibition" and be denominated in USD; the certificate of origin must be issued by the CCPIT or customs; and an exhibition confirmation letter must be provided by the organizer. For electronic products, CE certification and battery MSDS reports are required, while food items need Halal certification.
Item restrictions and packaging require special attention. Pork products, alcohol, e-cigarettes, and religiously sensitive items are strictly prohibited. Drones require approval from the civil aviation authority, and medicines must come with English instructions and a translated prescription. Lithium batteries must be individually sealed with UN38.3 labels attached. Outer packaging should be marked with "Exhibition Sample," and fragile items must bear a "Fragile" label.
Shipping timelines and tariff costs need to be planned in advance. Sea freight from Shanghai takes approximately 18 days, and during the peak season (October to March), bookings should be made two months in advance. Direct air freight takes 3–7 days, making it suitable for urgent samples. During Ramadan, additional clearance time should be factored in. For single declarations ≤ 1,000 AED (approx. RMB 1,900), samples are exempt from duties. Exceeding this threshold incurs a 5% customs duty and 5% VAT. Bulk samples can opt for LCL sea freight or tax-inclusive dedicated lines to control costs.
In terms of logistics choices, it is advisable to confirm the plan one month in advance and seek assistance from local agents for customs clearance to avoid document-related delays and ensure a smooth exhibition process.
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