1. Introduction: Why the UAE is a Lucrative Market for Indian Dry Fruits
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the fastest-growing destinations for Indian food exports — especially dry fruits. With its large expatriate population, strong trade ties with India, and increasing demand for healthy snacks, the UAE offers tremendous opportunities for Indian exporters. Whether you’re dealing in almonds, cashews, pistachios, or raisins, understanding how to export dry fruits from India to UAE is key to entering this profitable market.
The demand for Indian dry fruits in the UAE continues to rise, driven by factors such as festive consumption, premium gifting culture, and an overall shift toward plant-based nutrition.
2. Overview of Dry Fruit Export from India to UAE
India’s Position in the Global Dry Fruit Export Market
India ranks among the top exporters of high-quality dry fruits, particularly cashews and raisins. According to APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority), India’s dry fruit exports have seen steady growth, with the UAE being one of its top buyers.
Why UAE is Among India’s Top Importers
UAE acts as both a consumer and re-export hub. Many Indian dry fruits exported to Dubai are later shipped to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. The strong logistics and business-friendly policies of UAE make it an ideal market for Indian exporters.
3. Understanding the Export Potential of Dry Fruits
Major Dry Fruits in Demand
The UAE market shows high demand for:
- Almonds (Badam) – used in sweets and snacks
- Cashews (Kaju) – popular in premium food products
- Pistachios (Pista) – for confectionery and gifting
- Raisins (Kishmish) – for bakery and cereal manufacturing
- Walnuts (Akhrot) – health-focused consumers
Growth Trends and Market Statistics
The GCC dry fruits market is expected to reach USD 3.8 billion by 2027, with India contributing nearly 30% of imports. Exporters offering organic, unsalted, and value-added dry fruits (like roasted or flavored nuts) gain higher profit margins.
4. Key Benefits of Exporting Dry Fruits from India to UAE
High-Profit Margins and Trade Relations
India and the UAE share one of the strongest trade relationships in Asia. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022 eliminated several tariffs on agricultural goods — making Indian exports more competitive.
Low Import Tariffs and Quick Shipping Routes
Due to geographic proximity, shipping from Mumbai to Dubai takes only 4–5 days by sea and under 24 hours by air. This reduces freight costs and ensures freshness — a major advantage for perishable goods like dry fruits.
5. Legal Requirements for Exporting Dry Fruits to UAE
Before shipping your products, you must comply with several export regulations:
Import-Export Code (IEC) Registration
An IEC number from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is mandatory for all export businesses in India.
FSSAI and APEDA Certification
Dry fruits fall under the processed food category, requiring:
- FSSAI License (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India)
- APEDA registration for export eligibility
Packaging and Labeling Compliance
Export packaging must meet both Indian and UAE standards. Labels should include:
- Product name in English and Arabic
- Ingredients and nutritional facts
- Net weight and origin (e.g., Product of India)
- Expiry or best-before date
6. Step-by-Step Process to Export Dry Fruits from India to UAE
- Register Your Export Business – Obtain IEC, GST, and FSSAI licenses.
- Source Quality Dry Fruits – Procure from verified Indian suppliers or wholesalers.
- Get APEDA Certification – This ensures your products meet international standards.
- Find UAE Buyers – Use B2B portals like Alibaba, Indiamart, or attend Gulfood Dubai.
- Prepare Export Documentation – Include invoices, health certificates, and packing lists.
- Choose Shipping Mode – Air freight for small, urgent consignments; sea freight for bulk orders.
- UAE Customs Clearance – Submit documents to Dubai Municipality for inspection and clearance.
7. Documentation Required for Dry Fruit Export
Export documentation is a critical step to ensure smooth customs clearance in both India and the UAE. Missing or incorrect paperwork can lead to shipment delays or rejections.
Essential Documents:
| Document | Purpose / Description |
| Commercial Invoice | Acts as proof of sale between exporter and importer. |
| Packing List | Provides details of product quantity, weight, and packaging. |
| Certificate of Origin | Issued by Chamber of Commerce to confirm the goods are from India. |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Ensures the product is free from pests or diseases. |
| FSSAI Certificate | Confirms compliance with India’s food safety standards. |
| Bill of Lading / Airway Bill | Acts as the shipping contract and proof of shipment. |
| Insurance Certificate | Protects goods against loss or damage during transit. |
| Export Declaration Form (EDF) | Required by Indian Customs for every export shipment. |
💡 Tip: Always digitize and upload your documents to the ICEGATE (Indian Customs EDI Gateway) for faster processing.
8. Packaging Standards and Labeling Guidelines
Proper packaging is essential to maintain freshness and meet UAE food import regulations.
Packaging Standards
- Use airtight, moisture-proof packaging (such as laminated pouches or PET jars).
- Outer cartons should be corrugated, tamper-evident, and labeled “Handle with Care.”
- Maintain net and gross weight markings on each carton.
Labeling Requirements in UAE
All imported food products must include the following:
- Product name (in Arabic and English)
- Brand name and manufacturer details
- Country of origin — Product of India
- Net weight (in metric units)
- Date of manufacture and expiry
- Storage instructions (e.g., Store in a cool, dry place)
- Ingredients and nutritional information
📝 Pro Tip: Using bilingual packaging helps build trust with Emirati consumers and ensures compliance with Dubai Municipality Food Control Department.
9. Logistics and Shipping Options from India to UAE
Efficient logistics planning reduces costs and ensures timely delivery — crucial for perishable products like dry fruits.
Shipping Methods
- Air Freight – Fast but expensive. Ideal for premium or urgent consignments.
- Sea Freight – Cost-effective for bulk orders; takes around 4–5 days from Mumbai to Dubai.
Major Export Ports in India
- JNPT (Mumbai)
- Mundra Port (Gujarat)
- Chennai Port (Tamil Nadu)
Main Import Ports in UAE
- Jebel Ali Port (Dubai) – one of the world’s busiest.
- Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi)
- Sharjah Port
🌍 Fact: Over 70% of India’s exports to UAE arrive through Jebel Ali Port, making it a strategic hub for exporters.
10. Customs Duties and Tariff Rates in UAE
The UAE offers one of the most liberal import policies in the Middle East.
Import Duty Structure (as of 2025)
- General import duty: 5% on most goods.
- Under India–UAE CEPA Agreement, many food products including dry fruits have reduced or zero tariffs.
- Certain value-added products (e.g., roasted or salted nuts) may still attract duties depending on HS code classification.
Customs Clearance Procedure
- Submit import documents to Dubai Customs via the online portal.
- Customs inspection for labeling, product quality, and food safety.
- Pay applicable duties (if any).
- Obtain release order for delivery.
⚙️ Use Dubai Trade Portal for paperless customs processing and to track shipments in real time.
11. Finding Buyers and Distributors in UAE
Your success in exporting dry fruits depends on securing reliable buyers. Here’s how to start:
Online B2B Marketplaces
- Alibaba
- GlobalSources
- IndiaMART International
- TradeIndia
- Tradewheel
These platforms allow exporters to connect with verified UAE importers and distributors.
Offline Channels
- Attend Gulfood Expo Dubai — the world’s largest annual food trade event.
- Register with Dubai Chamber of Commerce for networking opportunities.
- Partner with local food importers and hypermarkets (like Carrefour, Lulu, and Al Maya).
12. Marketing and Branding for UAE Market
To build a sustainable export business, focus on brand positioning and product differentiation.
Building a Strong Brand Identity
- Create bilingual packaging (English + Arabic).
- Use premium designs that reflect freshness and authenticity.
- Highlight “Made in India” — a trust factor in the UAE market.
Digital Marketing Strategies
- List your products on UAE-based eCommerce platforms like Noon and Amazon.ae.
- Promote through Instagram, LinkedIn, and WhatsApp Business for B2B visibility.
- Offer free samples to new buyers and distributors.
📈 Consistent branding builds recognition and credibility — key factors for long-term business success.
13. Export Challenges and Risk Management
Every export business faces obstacles. Here’s how to manage them smartly:
| Challenge | Possible Solution |
| Product rejection due to poor quality | Follow APEDA standards and regular lab testing. |
| Payment delays or defaults | Use Letter of Credit (LC) or advance payment terms. |
| Fluctuating exchange rates | Use forex forward contracts to lock currency rates. |
| Regulatory changes | Stay updated via DGFT notifications and UAE customs circulars. |
🛡️ Consider export insurance from Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) to protect against payment and political risks.
14. Tips for First-Time Exporters
- Start small — export to one distributor before scaling.
- Hire an export consultant or freight forwarder for documentation assistance.
- Use APEDA’s online export training programs.
- Join export promotion councils to stay informed about new markets and incentives.
- Maintain regular communication with your buyers through email and WhatsApp.
15. Government Schemes Supporting Dry Fruit Exporters
The Indian government offers numerous incentives to encourage exports.
APEDA Support
- Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
- Financial assistance for market development and packaging innovation
Export Promotion Schemes
- Remission of Duties and Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP)
- Transport and Marketing Assistance (TMA) for agricultural products
- MSME Support for small-scale exporters
🔗 For more information, visit https://apeda.gov.in
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is FSSAI registration mandatory to export dry fruits from India?
Yes. FSSAI certification ensures food safety compliance for export and is mandatory for all processed food items.
Q2. Do I need a separate license to export to UAE?
No. A valid IEC (Import-Export Code) from DGFT is sufficient to export anywhere globally.
Q3. What is the best mode of transport for dry fruit exports?
For bulk orders, sea freight is most cost-effective. For small or urgent shipments, air freight is recommended.
Q4. Are there any restrictions on dry fruit exports to UAE?
There are no major restrictions, but exporters must meet UAE’s food labeling and health standards.
Q5. How can I find reliable buyers in the UAE?
Join trade portals like Alibaba, attend Gulfood Dubai, and connect through the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.
Q6. What are the main documents required for export?
You’ll need an Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, FSSAI License, and Bill of Lading.
17. Conclusion: Building a Successful Dry Fruit Export Business to UAE
Exporting dry fruits from India to the UAE is one of the most lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to enter the global market. With minimal trade barriers, excellent logistics, and strong cultural ties, the UAE remains India’s gateway to the Middle East.
By following this step-by-step guide — from obtaining the right licenses and preparing export documents to finding trustworthy buyers — you can establish a sustainable export business with consistent profits.
Start small, stay compliant, and gradually expand your presence across the GCC. The world is ready for high-quality Indian dry fruits — it’s your turn to deliver them.
✅ Key Takeaway
“Success in export is not about the shipment — it’s about the system you build.”
