Shipping from China to the UAE
Air freight from China to the UAE typically takes 2–5 days airport-to-airport; express courier typically 2–4 days. The UAE is a natural Gulf hub — we also arrange onward movement to regional destinations on request.
Transit times
Main gateways
Air gateways: Dubai (DXB), Al Maktoum (DWC), Abu Dhabi (AUH)
Common cargo
- Consumer electronics and accessories
- Building and fit-out materials
- E-commerce replenishment for Gulf marketplaces
- Textiles and trading goods
Customs notes
- Customs duty in the UAE is commonly around 5% of CIF value for most goods, with VAT applied on top — confirm your product's treatment before shipping.
- Certain categories (telecom equipment, cosmetics, food) need registrations or approvals — tell us the product and we will flag requirements.
- Free-zone vs. mainland import are different setups — tell us where the cargo is going and we will route accordingly.
Common questions
How much does air freight from China cost?
Air freight is priced on chargeable weight — the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight — plus fuel, security, and handling surcharges. Rates change with route, season, and cargo type, so an accurate price needs your origin, destination, weight, dimensions, and cargo description.
What documents do I need to ship goods from China?
Every shipment needs a commercial invoice and a packing list with correct HS codes. Cargo containing batteries, liquids, or magnetic materials may also need test reports or transport certificates, and wood packaging may need fumigation marks. We pre-check your documents before cargo moves.
How will I know where my shipment is?
We confirm every milestone by message: supplier pickup, airline or carrier handover, departure, arrival, and final delivery. If something slips — a missed cut-off, a customs exam — you hear it from us early, with the options, not after the fact.
Related
Get a price that holds.
Tell us about your cargo — a person on our export desk replies within 24 hours.