UAE – 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. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.