Shipping Into Dubai During the Gulf Disruption: Your Options
How temporary customs measures may affect cargo routed through Khorfakkan, Fujairah and Oman—and what to confirm before booking.
Disruption in Gulf shipping has made route planning especially important. A booking that looks straightforward on paper may now involve an east coast or Omani port, a road leg and a different customs process. Actual routes, sailing schedules and charges need checking with carriers and the relevant authorities for each shipment.
What Dubai Customs has put in place
East coast transit. Dubai Customs Notice 03/2026 sets out a temporary mechanism for eligible cargo arriving at Khorfakkan or Fujairah to move onward to Dubai under customs controls. The procedure and destination must be confirmed for the goods and declaration concerned.
Oman–Dubai Green Corridor. Notice 04/2026 describes a temporary route for eligible cargo moving from Oman to Dubai through the designated border process. Notice 06/2026 addresses the corresponding export movement. These notices are route-specific; they do not replace the usual requirement for accurate shipping documents and any permits that apply to the goods.
What to check before cargo moves
- Transit time: ask whether transshipment or a road leg changes the arrival window.
- Total cost: compare the complete quotation, including any carrier, fuel, risk, storage and inland transport charges.
- Space: confirm the actual sailing or flight and the validity period of the quote; do not rely on a fixed booking lead time.
- Insurance: check that the policy covers the agreed ports, route and mode changes.
A practical shipment checklist
- Ask for a written route and an itemised quote, including surcharges and validity.
- Agree who bears additional cost if routing changes after dispatch.
- Prepare the invoice, packing list, transport document, origin details and any product permits before arrival.
- For GCC deliveries, compare a suitable road movement with the available sea route.
GrowBox Logistics can review your cargo details and discuss ocean freight, road transport and customs support. Availability of a temporary transit procedure and any bonded movement must be confirmed with the responsible carrier and customs authorities.
This article is general information. Requirements are confirmed shipment by shipment with the relevant authorities.