Country market guide: UAE and the GCC

The United Arab Emirates and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman) form a major trade hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Key Facts

• Currency — UAE Dirham (AED), pegged to USD. Other GCC currencies are also pegged or managed.
• Free zones — Dubai alone has over 30 free zones (JAFZA, DMCC, DAFZA) offering 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and simplified customs.
• GCC Customs Union — A common external tariff of 5% applies to most goods imported into any GCC member state.

Importing into the GCC

Most goods enter through Dubai, which serves as a re-export hub for the wider region. Key documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and in some cases a halal certificate for food products.

Key Compliance Areas

• Emirates Conformity Assessment Scheme (ECAS) — Certain products require ECAS registration before import into the UAE.
• SASO/SABER — Saudi Arabia requires product conformity certificates through the SABER platform.
• Halal certification — Mandatory for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products across the GCC.

Opportunities

The GCC's strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly regulations make it an excellent gateway for trade across the Middle East and Africa.