How to Export to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and GCC Countries from the USA?

To export to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries from the USA, it is necessary to navigate a terrain of rules, documentation, and compliance requirements. 

This detailed guide for manufacturers and exporters provides a breakdown of the process:  

Step 1. Acquire Knowledge of the USA Export Regulations

The first step is to maintain compliance with the regulations of the United States before exporting to GCC countries. Here are the primary factors that need to be taken under consideration:

• Export Administration Regulations (EAR): Administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), these regulations control the export of dual-use items. This will also help determine if your product requires an export license.
• Denied Persons List: Verify that your foreign buyer is not listed on the U.S. government’s Denied Persons List to avoid prohibited transactions.

Step 2. Identify the Appropriate Trade Partner

In GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, it’s often mandatory to work with a local importer or distributor. Here’s what this looks like for you as a manufacturer exporting to those countries:

• Local Sponsorship: GCC nations require foreign companies to have a local sponsor or partner to conduct business. 
• Trade License: Ensure your local partner possesses the necessary trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in their respective emirate or country. [Source: ITA]

Read More: 9 Food Manufacturing Certifications Every US Business Should Pursue

Step 3. Prepare Critical Documentation and Certifications

One of the most important elements to address when exporting to GCC countries is documentation accuracy, which is critical for customs clearance and regulatory compliance. Here are the most critical documentations to prepare:

1. Halal Certificate: A valid halal certificate issued by a recognized halal certification body, confirming that the products comply with halal requirements.
2. Certificate of Origin (CoO): Certify the origin of your products through your local Chamber of Commerce. In many cases, this document must be authenticated by the consulate of the importing GCC country.
3. Product Registration: Certain GCC nations, such as Saudi Arabia, require product registration through platforms like the Saber system before importation.
4. Gulf Conformity Mark (G Mark): Mandatory for products like low-voltage electrical items and toys. This mark signifies compliance with GCC technical regulations.
5. Bill of Lading: This serves as a shipment contract between the exporter and carrier. Ensure that the shipment’s destination, terms, and product details are clearly stated.
6. Packing List: Provide details about the shipment’s contents, including package dimensions, weight, and quantities.
7. Commercial Invoice: Include detailed product descriptions, quantities, unit prices, total value, and the country of origin.

You Might Also Like: Qualify Your Products for Halal Now

Step 4. Adhere to Country-Specific Import Requirements

Although GCC countries share many regulatory frameworks, each has specific import requirements.

Country	Requirements
Saudi Arabia	Halal Certification/SuitabilityApply for the Saber certificate for products including electronics, cosmetics, food contact materials, textiles, machinery, building materials, and chemicals.Register shipments on the Fasah platform 48 hours before their arrival.Certain products, such as electronics, require IECEE certification.Labeling must be in Arabic and include essential product details.
UAE	Halal Certification/SuitabilityAll imports must meet Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) requirements.Work with an importer who holds a valid trade license.Pre-clearance may be required for some items, such as food or pharmaceuticals.
Other GCC Countries	Halal Certification/SuitabilityResearch individual customs regulations for countries like Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar.

Get in touch with AHF’s export compliance specialist to learn more about country specific halal requirements. 

Step 5. Optimize Logistics and Shipping

It is extremely crucial for US manufacturers and exporters to optimize logistics and shipping to not only ensure the timely delivery of goods, but to also keep costs under control. Here’s how logistics and shipping can be managed effectively: 

• Freight Forwarders: Partner with experienced freight forwarders who understand GCC regulations.
• Shipping Mode: Choose between air freight for urgent shipments or ocean freight for cost-effective delivery. Major GCC ports like Jeddah Islamic Port (Saudi Arabia) and Jebel Ali Port (UAE) offer world-class facilities.
• Incoterms: Use International Commercial Terms (Incoterms) to clarify responsibilities for costs, insurance, and risks during transit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. What are the key documents required to export from the USA to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and GCC countries?

To export to GCC countries, you need essential documents such as:

• Halal Certificate (if applicable)
• Commercial Invoice
• Certificate of Origin (CoO)
• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Packing List
• Product Registration (e.g., SABER for Saudi Arabia, ESMA for UAE)
• Gulf Conformity Mark (G Mark) for regulated products

2. Do I need halal certification to export food products to Saudi Arabia or the UAE?

Yes, halal certification is mandatory for food, cosmetics, and other halal-sensitive products in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other GCC countries. The certification must be issued by a recognized halal certifying body like the American Halal Foundation (AHF) to ensure compliance with GCC halal regulations.

3. What are the UAE’s import requirements for U.S. exporters?

To export to the UAE, U.S. businesses must ensure:

• Compliance with Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) regulations
• Collaboration with a licensed local importer or distributor
• Pre-clearance for certain goods, including food and pharmaceuticals

4. What are the best shipping methods for GCC exports?

Your shipping method depends on cost, urgency, and product type:

• Air Freight – Best for high-value, urgent shipments
• Ocean Freight – More cost-effective for large shipments
• Major Ports – Use strategic entry points like Jeddah Islamic Port (Saudi Arabia) and Jebel Ali Port (UAE)

5. How can I ensure my products meet GCC labeling requirements?

Each GCC country has its own regulations, but common labeling requirements include:

• Arabic labeling with essential product details
• Halal logo (if applicable)
• Expiry date and batch number for food and pharmaceuticals

6. Do I need a local distributor to export to Saudi Arabia or the UAE?

Yes, many GCC countries require a local partner or distributor to handle imports. This includes:

• A local sponsor for business operations
• A distributor with a valid trade license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED)

7. What are the common compliance issues exporters face when shipping to the GCC?

Some of the most frequent compliance challenges include:

• Incorrect documentation (missing halal certification, improper CoO authentication)
• Failure to register products on SABER (Saudi Arabia) or ESMA (UAE)
• Not adhering to Arabic labeling requirements
• Misclassification of products for customs clearance

Wrapping Up

Exporting to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and other GCC countries from the USA can be a very lucrative business opportunity as demand for US products is significant within the Middle-East. 

By following this guide, U.S. exporters can effectively navigate the complexities of the GCC market and establish a long-term presence in the region.

To learn more about halal certification for exports, get in touch with an AHF expert at +1 (630) 759-4981 or info@halalfoundation.org. 

Disclaimer: All and any information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or compliance advice.