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How to Export to Dubai from India – Step by Step Guide for Businesses

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Financial Analyst

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Learn how to export to Dubai from India with this step by step guide. Covers IEC registration, HS code, UAE customs rules, ESMA and Dubai Municipality approvals, shipping, and export payments.

How to Export to Dubai from India: Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai is one of the most preferred export destinations for Indian businesses due to its strategic location, business-friendly policies, high demand for Indian products, and easy re-export access to GCC, Africa, and Europe.

Exporting to Dubai requires compliance with Indian export regulations and UAE customs and product standards. This guide explains how to export to Dubai from India step by step, helping exporters avoid delays and build sustainable trade operations.

Step 1: Register Your Business for Export

To export goods from India to Dubai, your business must be properly registered.

You need:

  • Registered business entity (Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Company)
  • PAN
  • Current bank account
  • Import Export Code (IEC) from DGFT
  • GST registration (exports are zero-rated)

IEC is mandatory for exporting goods from India.

Step 2: Select the Right Product for the Dubai Market

Dubai imports a wide range of products from India, including:

  • Food products, spices, rice, and packaged foods
  • Apparel, textiles, and fashion accessories
  • Gold, jewelry, and precious items
  • Handicrafts and home décor
  • Engineering goods and building materials
  • Pharmaceuticals and wellness products

Before exporting:

  • Check whether the product is restricted or requires special approval
  • Study UAE consumer preferences and quality standards
  • Verify shelf life and Halal requirements (for food)

Step 3: Identify the Correct HS Code

The HS Code is used to determine:

  • UAE customs duty
  • Import restrictions
  • Standard or conformity requirements

Incorrect HS codes can lead to customs delays or penalties in Dubai.

Step 4: Understand UAE Import Regulations

Imports into Dubai are governed by:

  • Dubai Customs
  • UAE Federal Customs Authority
  • Dubai Municipality
  • ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology)

Some products require:

  • Product registration in UAE systems
  • Conformity certificates
  • Municipality approvals

Food, cosmetics, electronics, and medical products are highly regulated.

Step 5: Ensure Product Registration & Compliance

Common compliance requirements:

  • Food products: Dubai Municipality Food Import System
  • Cosmetics & personal care: Montaji system registration
  • Electronics: ECAS / Emirates Quality Mark
  • Pharmaceuticals: UAE Ministry of Health approvals

Failure to register products can result in shipment rejection.

Step 6: Find and Verify a Buyer in Dubai

Buyers can be found through:

  • Trade exhibitions
  • Importers and distributors
  • Wholesale markets
  • B2B platforms

Before confirming orders:

  • Verify buyer trade license
  • Ensure import permissions are in place
  • Sign a detailed purchase agreement

Step 7: Finalize Incoterms and Pricing

Popular Incoterms for Dubai trade include:

  • FOB (Free on Board)
  • CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)
  • DAP (Delivered at Place)

CIF is widely used for Dubai exports as it offers pricing clarity to buyers.

Step 8: Arrange Shipping and Logistics

Shipping options to Dubai:

  • Sea freight – most economical
  • Air freight – fast for urgent shipments
  • Courier services – samples and small orders

Required export documents:

  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Shipping Bill
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
  • Insurance certificate (if applicable)

Step 9: Customs Clearance in India

Exports must be filed on ICEGATE.

Ensure:

  • Proper valuation and HS code usage
  • Accurate documentation
  • Compliance with DGFT rules

After clearance, goods are shipped to Dubai.

Step 10: Customs Clearance in Dubai

Dubai importer or customs agent handles:

  • Import declaration
  • Customs duty payment (usually 5%)
  • VAT payment (if applicable)
  • Product inspection and approvals

Non-compliant products may be detained, returned, or destroyed.

Step 11: Receive Export Payment

Common payment methods:

  • Advance payment
  • Letter of Credit (LC)
  • Telegraphic Transfer (TT)
  • Online payment gateways (small orders)

Exporters must:

  • Realize export proceeds within FEMA timelines
  • Obtain eBRC / FIRC
  • Maintain GST and banking records

Step 12: Claim Export Benefits in India

Indian exporters to Dubai may claim:

  • Zero-rated GST under LUT or refund
  • RoDTEP incentives
  • Duty Drawback (if applicable)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Exporting to Dubai

  • Skipping product registration in UAE portals
  • Incorrect HS code usage
  • Non-compliant packaging or labeling
  • Ignoring Halal and shelf-life requirements
  • Weak buyer verification
  • Late export proceeds realization

Conclusion

Dubai offers one of the easiest and fastest export markets for Indian businesses. With the right product compliance, documentation, and buyer coordination, exporters can scale quickly and use Dubai as a global trading hub.

By following this step-by-step guide, businesses can export to Dubai smoothly, compliantly, and profitably.

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