How to ship from Thailand to Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait

As the world becomes more interconnected, Thai businesses are finding lucrative opportunities in the Middle East. This region is not just rich in culture and history; it's also a burgeoning market for a diverse array of Thai products. From the bustling streets of Dubai to the vibrant markets of Riyadh and Kuwait City, the demand for goods from Thailand is on a steady rise.

In 2022, Thailand’s trade with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reached a remarkable US$3.4 billion, dominated by car parts, air conditioners, agricultural goods, and tech equipment, noted by the ASEAN Briefing. The non-oil trade alone between the two countries grew by 21%, hitting US$6.1 billion. These numbers represent a growing economic synergy and a plethora of opportunities for Thai exporters.

Similarly, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait are becoming increasingly important trade partners. According to the United Nations COMTRADE database, Thailand’s exports to Saudi Arabia amounted to US$2.04 billion in 2022, while its exports to Kuwait totaled US$327.66 million. These markets are ripe with potential, spanning a range of sectors.

For Thai companies eyeing the Middle East, understanding the art of international shipping to these destinations is crucial. Each country has its unique set of custom rules and regulations. Tapping into this potential means not only expanding your market reach but also contributing to a global narrative of trade and cultural exchange. Let's dive into the essentials of making your shipping journey from Thailand to these vibrant Middle Eastern markets a success.

Understanding the Middle East market

The Middle East, a region rich in history and culture, is increasingly turning towards Thailand for a variety of goods. This burgeoning market has shown a growing demand for Thai products, a testament to the deepening economic and cultural ties between these regions.

Growth areas

One of the key areas of growth is in the agricultural sector. The Thai Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is keenly focused on increasing fruit exports to Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. These nations have shown a high demand for Thai fruits such as rambutan, mangosteen, longan, mango, and durian. In 2022, efforts were intensified to boost the shipping of farm products and food to the UAE by US$299 million, marking a 4.6% increase year-on-year. Such initiatives reflect the growing appetite in the Middle East for Thai agricultural products.

Moreover, in 2022, Thai rice prices saw a significant rise due to heightened demand from Middle Eastern markets. Prices for Thailand's 5% broken rice climbed to US$432-US$435 per tonne, up from US$410-US$414. This increase was attributed to growing interest from countries like Iraq and Iran and improved diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia.

Future opportunities

Adding to this momentum is the Thailand Mega Fair 2023, held in December, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This trade fair was the largest showcase of Thai products and services in Saudi Arabia, aimed to forge new business opportunities, expand trade and investment ties, and promote Thai culture. With participation from major Thai corporations like Siam Piwat, Tourism Authority of Thailand, BDMS, and SCG International, this event was a strategic move to cater to the diverse and increasing demand for Thai products in the Middle East.

Evidently, for Thai businesses, the Middle East is not just a market; it’s a gateway to a world of opportunities, where the richness of Thai products meets the diverse needs and tastes of the Middle Eastern consumer.

Navigating shipping regulations and requirements in the Middle East

Shipping to the Middle East involves understanding and adapting to the region's specific custom duties and tax regulations. Each country in the Middle East has its unique set of rules that govern imports, and it's crucial for Thai exporters to be well informed to ensure smooth transactions.

Duties and taxes

UAE duties and taxes

In the UAE, a general Value Added Tax (VAT) rate of 5% applies to most goods shipped, though some items are subject to a 0% rate or exempt under certain conditions. Additionally, a customs duty of 5% is typically imposed on the cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of imports.

However, when shipping goods like alcohol and tobacco, other rates may apply. The UAE also enforces anti-dumping duties on specific imports like car batteries and ceramic tiles, with rates varying based on the Harmonised System (HS) codes and the country of export or origin.

In extreme cases, this duty can be as high as 67.5% of the CIF value. Excise tax rates in the UAE are particularly high for tobacco products and electronic smoking devices at 100%, and 50% for carbonated and sweetened drinks.

Saudi Arabia duties and taxes

In Saudi Arabia, a VAT rate of 5% is generally imposed on goods, with some exceptions. Notably, from 1 July 2020, the standard VAT rate was increased to 15%.

Customs duties on goods shipped to Saudi Arabia are calculated based on their price, which includes the cost of goods plus freight and insurance converted to Saudi riyals. With the recent increase, these duties will now range from 6% to 25%, affecting 99 HS codes covering a wide range of products, including foodstuffs and aluminium products.

Kuwait duties and taxes

Kuwait also has a unified customs tariff of 5% on the CIF invoice price of imports, with some exceptions. Basic foodstuffs and medical items are usually exempt from this tariff. However, tobacco products attract a 100% duty. Currently, discussions are underway in Kuwait regarding the implementation of VAT, which Thai exporters should closely monitor for any developments.

Prohibited and restricted goods

UAE prohibited and restricted goods

The UAE maintains a strict policy on certain items, banning them entirely from import. These include:

All types of narcotic drugs (considering the overall control of prohibited items, especially narcotics).
Gambling tools, machines, and devices of all kinds.
Nylon fishing nets.
Live swine.
Used, reconditioned, and inlaid tires.
Substances contaminated with radiation and nuclear fallout.
Items that contradict Islamic faith and public morals.
Paan and betel leaves.
Any other goods whose importation is prohibited under UAE’s Common Customs Law or other applicable laws.

For restricted items, permission from specific UAE authorities is required before shipping them into the country. These items include:

Agricultural goods like live animals and plants, along with related products such as fertilisers and insecticides.
Defence-related items such as firearms, ammunition, explosives, and fireworks, regulated by defence and interior ministries.
Health-related products, encompassing pharmaceuticals and medical or surgical equipment.
Media-related materials, including printed publications and broadcasting equipment.
Items linked to nuclear energy, overseen by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation.
Automotive and electronic products like new tires, e-cigarettes, and electronic hookahs.
Alcoholic beverages, monitored by Dubai Police.
Consumer goods, including food, personal care, and cosmetics.
Rough diamonds, regulated under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

Saudi Arabia prohibited and restricted goods

In Saudi Arabia, the import regulations include prohibitions on:

All forms of weaponry.
Alcoholic beverages and related products.
Narcotic substances.
Pork and products derived from pork.
Pornographic materials.
Equipment used for distilling alcohol.
Retreaded or used tires.
Second-hand clothing.
Specific types of sculptures.
Vehicles with certain conditions, including cars older than five years, salvaged cars, used police vehicles, taxis, and rental cars.

For detailed information, consult the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) and Saudi Customs websites.

Restricted items you need special approval before shipping to Saudi Arabia include:

Agricultural seeds.
Live animals.
Books, periodicals, movies, and tapes, including religious materials.
Chemical substances and materials deemed harmful.
Pharmaceutical products.
Wireless equipment and radio-controlled model aeroplanes.
Horses.
Products containing alcohol, like certain perfumes.
Natural asphalt.
Archaeological artefacts.

For more detailed information on duties and restrictions, you can visit the Saudi Customs Tariff Search page.

Kuwait prohibited and restricted goods

Prohibited items you cannot ship to Kuwait include:

Pork and products derived from pork.
Alcoholic beverages of any kind.
Gambling devices and machines.
Pornographic materials.
Narcotics and illegal drugs.
Firearms and explosives (subject to special import procedures).

Restricted items you require special permissions before importing into Kuwait include:

Poultry
Beef
Firearms

Customs documents

When shipping from Thailand to the Middle East, understanding customs documentation requirements is vital.

Standard export documents include:

Commercial invoice
Certificate of origin
Packing list
Import permit
Waybill

In addition, here are specific types of documents you’ll need to prepare before shipping to these Middle Eastern countries:

UAE customs documents

When shipping from Thailand to the UAE, the additional customs documents to prepare include:

Health certificate (to prove safe human consumption of food)
Halal slaughter certificate (For meat and poultry products)

Saudi Arabia customs documents

Additional customs documents to show when shipping to Saudi Arabia include:

IECEE certificate to show product standard conformity
Proof of product registration

Kuwait customs documents

When shipping to Kuwait, these are some of the additional documents you’ll need to prepare:

Import licence from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with registration at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).
Specific licences for industrial machinery and spare parts (from the Public Authority for Industry), firearms, explosives, pharmaceuticals, and certain animals.
Local agent authorisation

Preparing your parcel for shipping to the Middle East

When shipping goods from Thailand to the Middle East, whether it’s the UAE, Saudi Arabia or Kuwait, proper preparation of your parcels is crucial. This not only ensures the safety and integrity of the products during transit but also helps in smooth customs clearance. Here's a guide to packing and labelling your shipments effectively:

Packing tips

Use sturdy materials: Choose durable packing materials, like strong corrugated boxes, especially for delicate items like electronics or jewellery.
Secure packaging: Ensure that items are securely wrapped and cushioned. Bubble wrap, foam, or packing peanuts can prevent movement and absorb shocks.
Waterproofing: For items sensitive to moisture, waterproofing is a must. Consider plastic wraps or waterproof containers.
Sealing: Use high-quality tape to securely seal your package, covering all openings and reinforcing the edges.

We cover more on packaging guidelines here.

Labelling rules

When shipping goods to the Middle East, adhering to specific labelling regulations of each country is crucial. These rules are designed to ensure consumer safety and regulatory compliance. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

UAE

Goods shipped to the UAE must follow these labelling requirements:

Language: Labels must be in Arabic or Arabic/English. Arabic stickers are accepted.
Food products: Labels must include production and expiry dates, printed on the original manufactured label. All stickers must be pre-approved by UAE authorities.
Regulatory compliance: Ensure labels meet UAE standards, including necessary approvals during the label assessment process.

Saudi Arabia

Likewise, when shipping to Saudi Arabia, goods must have these labelling rules followed:

Measurement units: Containers should be labelled in metric measurements. Non-metric units from the exporting country are acceptable if sold based on the metric system in Saudi Arabia.
General goods: Not bound by measurement-based labels unless applicable.

Kuwait

Shipping to Kuwait also entails product labelling rules like:

Chemicals: Labels should contain comprehensive information including product name, ingredients, handling instructions, health risks, and disposal guidelines.
Pharmaceuticals: Necessary details like batch number, production and expiration dates, content, and usage instructions must be included.
Food products: Labels must show product details, ingredients, nutritional information, and compliance with Islamic law for meat and poultry. Information should be primarily in Arabic, though multilingual labels are generally acceptable.

Choose a reliable shipping provider

In the intricate landscape of shipping from Thailand to the Middle East, choosing a logistics partner like DHL Express is key. We excel in handling complex customs processes, ensuring that your shipments are not just timely but also comply with local regulations. This is crucial for smooth overseas deliveries, especially in diverse markets like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait.

DHL Express offers real-time tracking for deliveries in over 220 countries and territories, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, providing transparency and peace of mind for your shipments. Whether it’s delicate jewellery or bulky industrial goods, our services are tailored to meet diverse needs.

For Thai businesses eyeing the Middle Eastern market, DHL Express Thailand isn’t just a shipping provider; we’re a partner in your growth and expansion. Opening a business account with us means access to top-tier shipping and delivery solutions, expert support, and a gateway to new opportunities in these emerging markets. With DHL Express, navigate the intricacies of international shipping with ease and confidence.

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