AGS UAE has recently received numerous shipments containing prohibited items from Africa and Europe, and would like to remind you of the United Arab Emirates’ customs regulations.

Please note the following when shipping goods to the UAE:

DUTIABLE/RESTRICTED ITEMS:

• All political and religious literature requires prior approval from the Ministry.
• New household and personal effects.
• Flammable and corrosive items.
• All printed matter, books, pictures, records, films, tapes, videos, compact disc and computer software are subject to censorship and confiscation (must be packed separately for easy access and clearly marked on the inventory).

PROHIBITED ITEMS:

• Firearms, weapons and ammunition.
• Alcoholic beverages (including fine wines).
• Narcotics and drugs (even dried poppy flower arrangements) can lead to severe legal action and long prison terms.
• Articles dealing with endangered animals and any items made of ivory.
• Wireless transmitters and communication equipment.
• All items manufactured by Israeli companies and goods that are of Israeli origin (due to an official boycott).
• Erotic statues/figurines/idols made of any metal/clay/glass.
• Pornographic, political and religious material.
• Pork.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:

• Clear copy of passport.
• Valid UAE residence or employment permit.
• Detailed inventory (original and two copies) in English.
• Way bill with customer’s contact details and billing instructions.
• Original bill of lading or, in the case of express release, a copy of the OBL (for sea-shipments).
• Airway bill copy for air shipments.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Note that PBO shipments should not be loaded into the container unless it has first been checked and verified by AGS staff.

As from 15 September, 2011, customs inspections of imported shipments will be taken care of directly by Dubai port authorities, and the same charges will be applied:

• USD 30/cbm for LCL
• USD 200 for 20ft
• USD 355 for 40ft

For all incoming air shipments, a valid employment or residence visa is mandatory. Therefore, do not dispatch the shipment until AGS UAE has given the green light and has received this document from the client. If the shipment arrives before AGS UAE’s green light, all demurrage/detention costs will be incurred by the origin agent.

Up-to-date customs information can be found on the AGS intranet. Or for further information contact AGS UAE Branch Manager Zia Husain.