Send a parcel to United Arab Emirates from only £64.77

All parcels sent from the UK to the United Arab Emirates are treated as international shipments and must include customs documentation.

When you book online with DHL eCommerce UK, we’ll automatically generate the required customs forms for you. You simply need to provide clear and accurate information about your parcel’s contents when booking.

CUSTOMS DECLARATION (INVOICE)

A customs declaration (also called a customs invoice) provides UAE Customs with details about your parcel’s contents, value and purpose. This helps ensure your parcel clears customs quickly.

To make sure your shipment travels smoothly:

• Be specific: Describe every item clearly – e.g. “leather wallet” instead of “accessory.”
• Be honest: Declare the true value of your items, even if they’re gifts.
• Be complete: Include your recipient’s full name, address and contact details.
• For business shipments, include your recipient’s import licence number or TRN (Tax Registration Number). The recipient’s Customs Client Code is also mandatory.

We’ll automatically include this information on your shipping paperwork.

DUTIES, TAXES AND IMPORT FEES

All goods imported into the UAE are subject to customs duty and VAT (currently 5%), calculated by UAE Customs based on your parcel’s value and contents.

• Low-value shipments under AED 1,000 (£204) are typically exempt from both customs duty and VAT (excluding restricted items like tobacco/alcohol, which are always dutiable).
• Higher-value or commercial goods may attract 5% customs duty, VAT, and administrative fees.
• All charges must be paid by the recipient before delivery can be completed.

If these charges are not paid, UAE Customs may hold, return, or dispose of the parcel. Please ensure your recipient is aware that import fees may apply.

You can find the latest customs guidance on the Federal Customs Authority of the UAE website.

WHAT ITEMS CAN'T I SEND TO THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES?

Before booking your courier service to the UAE, it’s important to check that all the items you plan to send are permitted. Products that are considered everyday items in the UK may be restricted or prohibited for import into the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE is an Islamic country, and as such, there are strict regulations on certain goods - particularly those that could be considered offensive or contrary to local customs and cultural values. Please take care when preparing your shipment and always check the most up-to-date information, as rules can change from time to time.

Products such as narcotics and fresh (perishable) foodstuffs are strictly prohibited under both UAE law and our own shipping restrictions.

We also strictly prohibit the carriage of alcohol and tobacco products, even though UAE Customs may allow them in limited quantities subject to high Excise Tax. Be sure to review our prohibited items list before booking your delivery.

Some examples of items you can’t send to the UAE include: