Middle East Guide and Trade Overview
Market intelligence to help sellers navigate international trade and logistics
Introduction to Middle East’s Trade and Export Landscape
The Middle East is home to some of the world’s largest and most dynamic economies, making it a crucial player in global trade. With extensive connections to markets across Europe, North America, and beyond, the region is a leader in both commodity exports and a growing hub for eCommerce. This guide is designed to provide you with a detailed overview of the Middle East’s import and export landscape, offering insights into key trade facts, top exports to the U.S., and the most effective selling and distribution channels for businesses looking to enter Middle Eastern markets or import goods from the region.
Overview of Middle East’s Market Strengths
The diverse economies of the Middle East thrive on their ability to leverage natural resources, agricultural products, and a skilled workforce. Key exports include oil and gas, petrochemicals, textiles, machinery, and consumer goods. With favorable trade agreements and strategic shipping routes, the Middle East is an attractive trade partner for businesses worldwide.
In this guide, you’ll find essential trade data, including:
- Quick Facts: Discover the de minimis value for U.S. imports, import tariffs, prohibited items, and labeling requirements across various Middle Eastern countries.
- Top Exports: Explore the region’s top exports to the U.S., ranging from energy products to popular goods sold on eCommerce platforms.
- Selling Channels: Learn about the most effective distribution and sales channels, including eCommerce marketplaces, local retailers, and direct-to-consumer shipping options with express customs clearance.
Whether you are an importer or an exporter, this comprehensive guide will provide the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the Middle East’s trade regulations and tap into new market opportunities.
Quick Facts
De Minimis Value for USA Imports from the Middle East:
- Shipments valued under $800 (de minimis threshold) can enter the U.S. duty-free.
- Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Import Tariffs:
- Most Middle Eastern products benefit from duty-free entry to the U.S. under various trade agreements. Tariff rates can be checked using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
HTS Website: Harmonized Tariff Schedule
- Most Middle Eastern products benefit from duty-free entry to the U.S. under various trade agreements. Tariff rates can be checked using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
Prohibited Items from Import:
- Agricultural products (specific fruits, meats, and live animals) require permits.
- Cultural items, such as certain artifacts, are prohibited from export without authorization.
Country-Specific Export Controls
Prohibited Items from Import
Country-Specific Export Controls:
- Saudi Arabia: Export Control Regulations: Saudi Arabian Ministry of Commerce and Investment
- United Arab Emirates: Federal Law No. 20 of 1991 concerning the Prohibition of Certain Exports
- Qatar: Export Control Law: Ministry of Economy and Commerce
- Kuwait: Import and Export Regulations: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Oman: Export Licensing Requirements: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Bahrain: Import and Export Control: Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
Labeling and Marking Requirements:
- Country of origin labeling is required for food and consumer products.
- Products must comply with Middle Eastern competition and consumer protection laws regarding false or misleading information.
- National Competition and Consumer Protection Agencies
HS Codes:
- Harmonized System (HS) codes are used to classify and track goods. Find HS Codes specific to Middle East exports on:
- Harmonized System Website
Trade Agreements:
- The Middle East has numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) with various countries. For details, visit the respective government trade agreements pages of individual Middle Eastern countries.
- Saudi Arabia: Ministry of Commerce and Investment
- United Arab Emirates: Ministry of Economy
- Qatar: Ministry of Economy and Commerce
- Kuwait: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Oman: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Bahrain: Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism
Top Exports to the USA from the Middle East
Commodity Categories:- Electronics: Smartphones, computers, and consumer electronics.
- Textiles: Garments, fabrics, and footwear.
- Machinery: Industrial machinery, equipment, and automotive parts.
- Agricultural Products: Dates, fruits, and seafood.
- Petroleum Products: Crude oil and refined petroleum products.
- Electronics: Brands like Samsung and LG smartphones and consumer electronics.
- Textile Products: Clothing from brands such as Max Fashion and Al Karam.
- Beauty Products: Skincare brands like Huda Beauty and Farsali.
- Agricultural Products: High-quality dates and seafood products commonly sold via online platforms.
- Nutraceuticals: Popular vitamins and supplements from Middle Eastern brands gaining traction in the U.S. market.
- For detailed statistics and insights, refer to trade reports from relevant government agencies or trade organizations.
Top Exports to the USA from the Middle East
Saudi Arabia
-
Saudi Aramco Oil Products
Products: High-quality crude oil and refined petroleum.
Amazon Store: N/A (available through various distributors) -
Almarai Dairy Products
Products: Popular dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Amazon Store: Almarai -
Dates from Saudi Arabia
Products: Premium dates known for quality.
Amazon Store: Various brands (e.g., Ajwa Dates) -
Nesma & Partners Perfumes
Products: Traditional Arabian perfumes.
Amazon Store: Nesma -
Tamimi Markets Food Products
Products: Diverse food products including spices and snacks.
Amazon Store: Tamimi Markets
United Arab Emirates
-
Aqua Mineral Water
Products: High-quality bottled water.
Amazon Store: Aqua -
Almarai Dairy Products
Products: Popular dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
Amazon Store: Bateel -
Bateel Gourmet Dates
Products: Luxury dates and date-based products.
Amazon Store: Various brands (e.g., Ajwa Dates) -
Jumeirah Foods Spices
Products: Premium spices and seasonings.
Amazon Store: Jumeirah Foods -
Dubai Duty-Free Products
Products: Various luxury goods available for international shipping..
Amazon Store: Tamimi Markets
Egypt
-
Egyptian Cotton Products
Products: High-quality cotton textiles and clothing.
Amazon Store: Various brands -
El-Wahy’s Authentic Egyptian Spices
Products: Traditional spices and blends.
Amazon Store: El-Wahy -
Al-Ahram Beverages
Products: Popular soft drinks and beverages.
Amazon Store: Al-Ahram - Misr Foods Halal Products
Products: Halal-certified meat and processed foods.Amazon Store: Misr Foods
-
Cairo Olive Oil
Products: Premium olive oil from Egypt.
Amazon Store: Cairo Olive Oil
Jordan
-
Zalatimo Sweets
Products: Traditional Middle Eastern sweets and desserts.
Amazon Store: Zalatimo -
Jordan River Water
Products: Natural bottled water.
Amazon Store: N/A (available through various distributors) -
Dead Sea Skin Care Products
Products: Mineral-rich skincare products.
Amazon Store: Various brands (e.g., Ahava) -
Jordanian Olive Oil
Products: High-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Amazon Store: N/A (available through various distributors)
Kuwait
-
Kuwait Flour Mills Products
Products: High-quality flour and baking products.
Amazon Store: Kuwait Flour Mills -
Al-Khazna Tea
Products: Premium Arabic tea blends.
Amazon Store: Al-Khazna -
Sultan Center Grocery Products
Products: Diverse grocery items.
Amazon Store: Sultan Center -
Kuwait Dates
Products: High-quality dates.
Amazon Store: Various brands
Other Notable Products from the Middle East
-
Halal Snacks and Sweets
Products: A variety of snacks and sweets that comply with halal standards.
Amazon Store: Various brands -
Arabic Coffee
Products: Traditional Arabic coffee blends.
Amazon Store: Various brands -
Essential Oils and Fragrances
Products: Natural essential oils and fragrance oils.
Amazon Store: Various brands
Selling in the USA
Distribution and Sales Channels:
-
- Wholesalers/Distributors: Collaborate with established U.S. distributors for bulk sales, utilizing global B2B platforms like Alibaba and TradeKey.
- Retail Partners: Many Middle Eastern brands successfully sell through major U.S. retailers such as Costco, Walmart, and Target.
-
- Amazon.com: The leading marketplace for selling Middle Eastern products directly to U.S. consumers, offering a vast reach and customer base.
- eBay: A strong alternative channel for Middle Eastern exporters to connect with U.S. consumers, especially for unique and niche products.
- Etsy: Popular for artisanal Middle Eastern products, particularly in crafts, home goods, and handmade items.
-
- Express Carriers: Utilize express carriers like DHL Express, FedEx, and UPS for direct-to-consumer shipping with expedited customs clearance options.
- Customs Brokers: Engaging customs brokers is recommended to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations for direct shipping.
- DHL Express Guide to Shipping to the USA
Top Seaports in Middle East for Commercial Import/Export Trade
Port of Jebel Ali
- Location: Dubai, UAE
- Overview: The largest seaport in the Middle East and a key transshipment hub, Jebel Ali Port connects markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe and supports the UAE’s extensive import and export activities.
- Website: DP World – Jebel Ali
Port of Salalah
- Location: Oman
- Overview: One of the largest and busiest ports in the region, Salalah serves as a gateway for cargo to and from the Middle East, East Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. It’s known for its strategic location and efficient container handling.
- Website: Port of Salalah
King Abdullah Port
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Overview: A major port on the Red Sea coast, King Abdullah Port plays a significant role in handling Saudi Arabia’s imports and exports, serving as a modern hub for global trade with advanced container and logistics capabilities.
- Website: King Abdullah Port
Port of Hamad
- Location: Qatar
- Overview: This state-of-the-art port in Qatar handles the majority of the country’s imports and exports, supporting logistics for Qatar and acting as a trade route to the broader Middle Eastern market.
- Website: Hamad Port
Port of Shuwaikh
- Location: Kuwait
- Overview: The principal commercial port in Kuwait, Shuwaikh handles a vast amount of the country’s imports, providing essential connectivity to Middle Eastern and international markets.
- Website: Port of Shuwaikh – Kuwait Ports Authority
Top Airports in the Middle East for Commercial Import/Export Trade
-
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Overview: One of the busiest airports in the world for international passenger traffic, DXB is a major hub for air cargo, connecting businesses to markets across the globe with extensive logistics services.
- Website: Dubai Airports
-
Hamad International Airport (DOH)
- Location: Qatar
- Overview: This airport is a key gateway to the Middle East, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and capacity for handling significant air cargo volumes, facilitating trade across continents.
- Website: Hamad International Airport
-
King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED)
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Overview: Serving as a major gateway for religious tourism and commerce, this airport is crucial for facilitating trade and import/export activities in the region.
- Website: Saudi Airports
-
Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Overview: This airport plays a significant role in international cargo transport, providing strong connections for businesses looking to import and export goods in the Middle East.
- Website: Abu Dhabi Airports
-
Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
- Location: Jordan
- Overview: The primary airport serving Jordan, it facilitates substantial cargo operations and acts as a critical transit point for trade between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- Website: Queen Alia International Airport
Partner with American eLogistics for Seamless International Shipping Solutions
As you explore the opportunities within the Middle East market, trust American eLogistics to handle your logistics needs with expertise and care. Our comprehensive international shipping services simplify both imports and exports, helping you navigate complex regulations and streamline your supply chain.
Import Services: We provide reliable ocean freight forwarding into Middle East, complete with full customs clearance assistance, ensuring your goods arrive safely and in compliance with all regulations. Our team is ready to assist with all aspects of your import process, from port to final delivery.
Export & Reverse Logistics: For businesses exporting from Middle East to the U.S. or other global markets, we offer reverse logistics solutions that efficiently consolidate cargo for export. Whether you need air or ocean freight, our services help you reduce costs while maintaining full visibility over your shipments. We consolidate your returns and exports into a seamless, cost-effective process, ensuring that your goods reach their destinations on time.
Partner with American eLogistics for a tailored, end-to-end shipping solution that handles both imports and exports with ease. Contact us today to learn how we can optimize your global supply chain and provide you with the logistics support you need to grow your business.
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