Starting an import/export business between the UAE and Syria requires understanding customs procedures, documentation requirements, and logistics coordination. The UAE is Syria’s third-largest trading partner with bilateral trade at USD 890 million in 2025. This guide covers everything from clearance to shipping documentation.
Trade Volume
UAE-Syria trade USD 890M in 2025. UAE exports: construction materials, machinery, electronics.
Documentation
12+ documents per shipment: commercial invoice, packing list, COO, bill of lading.
Shipping Time
Jebel Ali to Tartous: 4 days sea freight. Customs clearance: 3-5 days.
Customs Clearance
| Step | Agency | Time | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-arrival Declaration | Syrian Customs | 24-48 hrs | Invoice, packing list, BL |
| Document Review | Customs Broker | 1 day | All shipping docs |
| Valuation Check | Customs Valuation | 1-2 days | Invoice, payment proof |
| Duty Calculation | Customs Finance | 1 day | Valuation report |
| Inspection | Inspection Dept | 1-2 days | Random or risk-based |
| Release | Customs Gate | Half day | Payment receipt |
Required Documentation
Standard: commercial invoice (3 copies), packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading or air waybill, export declaration (UAE), import declaration (Syria), insurance certificate, sector-specific permits.
Shipping Routes & Costs
Sea Freight
Jebel Ali to Tartous. 20ft: USD 1,800-2,500. 40ft: USD 2,500-3,500. Weekly. 4 days transit.
Land Freight
Dubai to Damascus via Saudi/Jordan. 20ft: USD 2,500-3,500. 3-4 days. For smaller shipments.
Air Freight
Dubai to Damascus. USD 2-4/kg. 1 day. For high-value, low-volume goods.
Duties & Taxes
Import duties: 5-30% depending on product. VAT: 5%. Customs processing: 2% of declared value. Storage fees after 5 days at port.
ℹ️ Note: Goods for reconstruction projects under Law No. 18 may qualify for customs duty exemptions. Submit certificate before shipment arrives.
✅ Tip: Use a registered Syrian customs broker. Fees: 1-2% of shipment value.
⚠️ Important: Prohibited items include military equipment, certain chemicals, and goods from sanctioned countries. Check current list with Syrian Customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minimum documentation?
Commercial invoice (3 copies), packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading. Without these, clearance delayed.
Get Syrian COO?
Apply at Damascus Chamber of Commerce with invoice and origin proof. 2-3 days. SYP 25,000-50,000.
Food export requirements?
Ministry of Health import permit, lab analysis, halal certification, shelf-life 6+ months remaining.
Resources
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Rana Kassab (رنا قصاب)
Technical Writer. Creates detailed guides on Syrian business procedures, legal documentation, and regulatory compliance.
