China is the largest source of imported goods for many UAE businesses, from packaging and electronics to furniture and branded merchandise. Prices can be far lower than buying locally, but only when the factory is genuine, the goods match the sample and the shipment clears customs without surprises.
Step 1: Define exactly what you need
Write a clear specification before you contact any supplier: materials, dimensions, colours, packaging, labels, quantity and target price. Vague requests get vague quotes, and vague quotes lead to disputes later.
Step 2: Find and check the factory
Online marketplaces list thousands of sellers, and many are trading companies rather than manufacturers. Before you pay a deposit, check:
- Business licence and that the company name matches the payee
- Production capacity for your quantity and deadline
- Track record: years in business, export experience, references
- Certificates your product needs, such as safety or material tests
Step 3: Samples before production
Always approve a physical sample before mass production. Check it against your specification, and keep it as the reference for inspection later. For branded or custom products, approve the artwork proof as well.
Step 4: Agree terms in writing
Confirm unit price, minimum order quantity, payment milestones, production time and the Incoterm (who pays for freight and insurance, and where risk passes to you). Avoid paying 100% upfront to a new supplier.
Step 5: Inspect before shipping
A pre-shipment inspection checks a share of the finished goods against the approved sample before the balance is paid. It's the cheapest point to catch problems: once goods have shipped, fixing them costs far more.
Step 6: Freight and UAE customs
Choose sea freight for larger, heavier orders and air freight when speed matters more than cost. On arrival, goods clear UAE customs:
- Customs duty is generally 5% of the goods' value including freight and insurance (CIF). Some products carry other rates.
- Import VAT of 5% applies on that value plus the duty.
- Documents usually include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and certificate of origin.
How long does it take?
Most orders take 3–6 weeks from approval to delivery, depending on production time and the freight method.
Do it yourself, or use a sourcing agent?
If you import often, know the product and can visit or audit factories, buying directly can work. If not, a sourcing agent checks the factory, manages samples and inspection, and handles freight and customs, so you deal with one contact in the UAE.
Next step: see our China sourcing agent service, or send your product list for a quote through our procurement team.
General information. Duty rates and import rules depend on the product; we confirm them for every order.