Middle East Logistics Overview
The Middle East, with its strategic location and rapidly growing e-commerce market, has become an essential market for cross-border sellers. The four core markets — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iraq — have a combined population of over 250 million.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE is the Middle East's largest re-export hub.
UAE Logistics Key Points
- Port: Jebel Ali (9th largest container port globally)
- Airport: Dubai International (DXB), Al Maktoum (DWC)
- Customs: EDI system, clearance within 24 hours
- VAT: 5%
- Last-mile: NAD (National Address) system
- Special: SABER certification for electronics
Saudi Arabia
The largest Middle East economy with 15%+ annual e-commerce growth.
Saudi Logistics Key Points
- Port: King Abdullah Port, Dammam Port
- Airport: Riyadh King Khalid (RUH), Jeddah King Abdulaziz (JED)
- Customs: FASAH electronic system
- VAT: 15%
- Last-mile: Address system incomplete
- Special: SFDA for cosmetics, SASO for electronics
Egypt
Most populous country (110M+) in the Middle East.
Egypt Logistics Key Points
- Port: Port Said, Alexandria, Damietta
- Airport: Cairo International (CAI)
- Customs: 2026 ACID upgrade, HS Code 6 digits required
- Duty: $150 duty-free threshold, VAT 14%
- Last-mile: C2C model, 60% COD
- Special: POA for branded goods
Iraq
Early-stage market with significant growth potential.
Iraq Logistics Key Points
- Port: Umm Qasr, Basra
- Airport: Baghdad (BGW), Erbil (EBL)
- Customs: Complex, experience-dependent
- Duty: Average 5-30%
- Last-mile: Kurdish region more developed
- Special: Local agent required
Common Logistics Challenges
Changing customs, poor address systems, high COD share, cultural factors (Ramadan), and extreme heat are five common challenges in the Middle East. Working with a local team is essential.
8ship offers one-stop logistics across all four countries, from collection to last-mile delivery.