UAE – Egypt

Important Information

Explore essential trade details such as taxes, tariffs, and shipping regulations affecting UAE-Egypt commerce.

UAE Tariffs and Taxes

Customs Duty: Generally 5% on most goods imported into the UAE, with exemptions for certain categories.
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 5% applied to the majority of goods and services.
Excise Tax: Imposed on specific goods, such as tobacco and energy drinks, which vary in rates.

Egypt Tariffs and Taxes

Customs Duty: Ranges from 0% to 40%, depending on the goods’ category.
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 14% on goods and services.
Special Goods Tax: Applicable on luxury items and certain imports, rates vary.

Restricted/Licensed Goods

Here’s an overview of restricted or licensed goods for import/export between the UAE and Egypt:

Firearms and Ammunition: Strictly regulated, requiring special permissions.
Pharmaceutical Products: Subject to health department controls and special approvals.
Cultural Artifacts and Antiquities: Export restrictions apply, especially for items of significant historical value.

Permissible Weights and Dimensions

Understanding the limitations on cargo sizes and weights is crucial for planning your shipments effectively.

Standard Truck

Length: 12.0 meters

Width: 2.5 meters

Height: 4.0 meters

Maximum Weight: 18 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 12 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 6.5 tons

Articulated Truck

Length: 16.5 meters

Width: 2.5 meters

Height: 4.0 meters

Maximum Weight: 40 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 16 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 7.5 tons

Oversized Load

Length: 18.0 meters

Width: 3.0 meters

Height: 4.5 meters

Maximum Weight: 60 tons

Maximum Axle Load: 20 tons

Driven Axle Weight: 9.0 tons

Local Holidays

Trade operations can be affected by local holidays; planning around these dates ensures smoother transactions.

January 7 - Coptic Christmas
April 25 - Sinai Liberation Day
May 1 - Labour Day
July 23 - Revolution Day
October 6 - Armed Forces Day

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the main ports of entry for cargo shipments between the UAE and Egypt?

The main ports of entry for cargo between the UAE and Egypt include the Port of Alexandria and Port Said East in Egypt, both critical for Mediterranean and Suez Canal transits. In the UAE, major ports like Jebel Ali in Dubai and Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi serve as key hubs for shipments to and from Egypt.

What specific goods are restricted or require special permissions for trade between the UAE and Egypt?

Restricted or regulated goods include firearms and ammunition, which require special permissions from both countries' governments. Pharmaceutical products are also heavily regulated and require approval from health authorities. Additionally, the export of cultural artifacts and antiquities from Egypt is strictly controlled to protect national heritage.

What are the standard customs duties when importing goods into Egypt from the UAE?

Customs duties in Egypt vary widely depending on the product category but generally range from 0% to 40%. Essential goods often have lower tariffs, while luxury items may incur higher rates. The standard Value-Added Tax (VAT) rate in Egypt is 14% on goods and services.

Are there customs exemptions available for specific types of imports or exports in the UAE and Egypt?

Yes, both countries offer customs exemptions under certain conditions. In Egypt, raw materials for manufacturing and strategic commodities like wheat and pharmaceuticals may benefit from reduced or zero tariffs to support local industries. In the UAE, exemptions are typically available for re-exports, goods imported into free zones, and specific strategic sectors like aerospace and renewable energy.

What are the estimated shipping times for goods traveling by sea or air between the UAE and Egypt?

Sea transit times between the UAE and Egyptian ports such as Alexandria or Port Said typically range from 4 to 7 days, depending on the specific route and shipping conditions. Air freight from major UAE airports like Dubai to Cairo usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, making it a faster option for time-sensitive shipments.