This 2024 release covers nearly everything related to the process of importing chocolates (HS Code 1806) into the UAE, so it is quite rich! Let’s see:
- Overview of UAE's Chocolates Imports in 2023
- Key Supplying Markets for Chocolate to the UAE
- Top Imported Chocolate Categories Into the UAE
- Steps for Importing Chocolate Into the UAE
- Regulatory Requirements for Importing Chocolates Into the UAE
- Factors Influencing Chocolate Shipping Costs
- Logistics Considerations for Shipping Chocolate
- Vervo Middle East: Chocolate Shipping Services to the UAE
Overview of UAE's Chocolates Imports in 2023
Per Trademap.org, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a notable importer in the global chocolate market, accounting for 1.2% of worldwide imports, ranking 20th. In 2023, the UAE imported chocolate and cocoa products worth USD 460,686 thousand, reflecting a trade deficit of USD -419,318 thousand due to a high level of imports relative to minimal exports. The UAE’s import growth for cocoa products has demonstrated a stable upward trajectory over recent years:
- Annual growth in value (2019-2023): 10%
- Annual growth in quantity (2019-2023): 7%
- Annual growth in value from 2022-2023: 7%
The UAE Chocolate Market Overview
The UAE chocolate market is on a robust growth trajectory. The UAE chocolate market size was valued at USD 736.40 million in 2023 and is estimated at 512.55 million USD by the end of 2024. The market is expected to reach 704.11 million USD by 2030 and USD 1165.44 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.43%. The market’s competitive landscape is moderately consolidated, with leading players like Barry Callebaut, Mars Incorporated, and Nestlé occupying significant shares.
The growing demand for premium, artisanal, and health-conscious chocolate varieties, especially antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, is fueling the market expansion. Recent research indicates 43% of residents prefer milk chocolate and 40% favor dark chocolate. Dubai commands a substantial portion of the UAE market share followed by Abu Dhabi. Sharjah, Ajman, and other emirates also contribute, with an increasing number of convenience stores and local retail outlets catering to more price-sensitive segments. Online retail expansion particularly benefits these areas.
This demand is met by brands like Mirzam Chocolate Makers, known for exotic single-origin flavors, and global brands including Ferrero and Hershey, which dominate with vast portfolios and strong brand presence. As for the distribution channels, convenience stores hold a 41.68% share. Supermarkets/hypermarkets are the second most popular channel for chocolate sales, with chocolate being the top-selling confectionery item, holding a 60.59% market volume share in 2023. The online channels are expanding rapidly, too, when it comes to chocolate market, projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.38% in 2030.
Key Supplying Markets For Chocolate to the UAE
The primary exporters to the UAE include the Netherlands, Türkiye, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Belgium. Each country contributes a significant share to the UAE’s chocolate imports, with considerable variation in unit value and growth rates:
- Netherlands
The Netherlands is the major supplier of chocolate to the UAE, contributing USD 86.17 million or 18.7% of UAE total chocolate imports in value terms. The Netherlands exported 12,826 tons of chocolate to the UAE, valued at USD 6,718 per ton. UAE chocolate imports from the Netherlands grew by 11% between 2019-2023, with a 17% increase between 2022-2023. The Netherlands is the 5th largest global exporter of chocolate, with a 6.9% global market share.
By air freight, flights from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Dubai International (DXB) take around 6h 30m with direct flights. Alternatively, cargo flights from AMS to Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) take approximately 10h 25m, operating biweekly with one stop. For sea freight, container ships from Rotterdam (NLRTM) to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) take roughly 35 days with three stops, while other sea routes to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH) take 38 days with up to six stops.
- Türkiye
Türkiye was the 2nd key supplier in 2023, accounting for USD 45.77 million or 9.9% of the UAE's chocolate imports. Türkiye exported 13,221 tons of chocolate, valued at USD 3,462 per ton. Imports from Türkiye increased 14% from 2019-2023, with 9% growth from 2022-2023. Türkiye is the 11th largest chocolate exporter globally, with a 2.4% global export share.
Air freight from Trabzon International (TZX) to Dubai International (DXB) takes around 3h 30m, operating 2-4 times weekly, with no stops, while Istanbul (IST) to DXB takes 4h 22m, with flights every few hours. By sea, the fastest container route from Iskenderun (TRISK) to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) takes around 16 days, operating every 2-4 weeks with one stop. Another sea route to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH) takes 21 days, available every 1-2 weeks with one stop and one transfer.
- Germany
Germany contributed USD 37.52 million or 8.1% of the UAE's chocolate import value. Germany exported 4,242 tons of chocolate to the UAE, valued at USD 8,845 per ton. Imports from Germany grew 8% from 2019-2023, but declined 4% from 2022-2023. Germany is the leading global exporter of chocolate, with a 16.8% global export share.
From Germany to the UAE, air freight offers several direct routes: Munich (MUC) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) in 5h 46m, with daily flights; Frankfurt (FRA) to AUH in 6h 8m daily; and FRA to Dubai (DXB) in 6h 20m, with 2-4 flights per day. The fastest container ship route from Wilhelmshaven (DEWVN) to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH), taking about 33 days with departures every 1-2 weeks and one transfer. Another route to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) takes 35 days 8h, with vessels available 2-4 times weekly and one stop.
- United Kingdom
The United Kingdom supplied USD 34.92 million or 7.6% of the UAE's chocolate imports. The UK exported 3,632 tons valued at USD 9,614 per ton. Imports from the UK increased 16% between 2019-2023, but fell 4% from 2022-2023. The UK is the 9th largest global exporter with a 2.8% global share.
From London to the Dubai, air freight options include flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) in 6h 51m, operating 2-4 times daily, and LHR to Dubai (DXB) in 6h 53m, with flights departing every few hours. For sea freight, container ships from London Gateway (GBLGP) to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH) take approximately 30 days 23h, available 1-2 times weekly with one stop. An alternative route to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) takes 36 days 13h, with vessels departing 2-4 times weekly and one stop.
- Switzerland
Switzerland accounted for USD 33.82 million or 7.3% of the UAE's chocolate imports. Switzerland exported 2,216 tons at USD 15,262 per ton. Imports from Switzerland grew 17% from 2019-2023 and jumped 51% from 2022-2023. Switzerland ranks 10th globally in chocolate exports with a 2.8% global share.
For sea freight transport to the UAE, container ships from Antwerp-Bruges (BEANR) to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) take about 37 days, departing 2-4 times weekly with two stops. From Switzerland, shipping options include a 15-day 6h route from Genoa (ITGOA) to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH), available every 2-4 weeks with two stops. Air freight from Zürich Airport (ZRH) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) takes 5h 55m with 2-4 weekly departures, non-stop. Additionally, flights from Zürich to Sharjah (SHJ) take 12h 53m with one transfer and are available 2-4 times daily.
- Belgium
Belgium contributed USD 29.19 million or 6.3% of the UAE's chocolate imports. Belgium exported 3,764 tons at USD 7,755 per ton. Imports from Belgium increased 18% between 2019-2023 and 28% from 2022-2023. Belgium is the 2nd largest global exporter with a 10.8% global market share.
Direct flights from Brussels Airport (BRU) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) take around 6h 22m, operating 2-4 times weekly with Etihad Airways. Flights from BRU to Sharjah (SHJ) last 13h 26m with one transfer, departing 2-4 times daily. Liège Airport (LGG) to Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) flights take 1 day 5h with one transfer, departing 2-4 times weekly.Container ships from Antwerp-Bruges (BEANR) to Abu Dhabi (AEAUH) take approximately 31 days 16h, with departures 1-2 times weekly and two stops. Cargo ships to Jebel Ali (AEJEA) take 37 days, operating 2-4 times weekly, also with two stops.
Trade Dynamics and Average Tariffs
The average tariff applied by the UAE for chocolate and cocoa products is estimated at 4%, with Switzerland enjoying a slightly reduced rate of 3.7%. The overall tariff structure is competitive and supports diverse supplier relationships across a wide geographic reach, with an average distance to supplier countries in Europe and Türkiye of 5,144 km and a market concentration index of 0.08, indicating a relatively low dependency on any single market.
Top Imported Chocolate Categories into the UAE
As shown, the UAE is a premium market for chocolates, which are in high demand for their rich taste, artisanal quality, and health benefits. Below is a comprehensive overview of top imported chocolate categories into the UAE, segmented by type (dark, milk, white) and by product type (pure chocolate and compound chocolate).
Dark Chocolate:
Known for its high cocoa content (from 50% up to 99%), dark chocolate is made from cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and sugar. It’s a popular choice for health-conscious consumers due to its lower sugar levels, low or absent milk solids, and its high concentration of antioxidants which increase with higher cocoa percentages. Top exporting countries are Belgium, Switzerland, France and Italy. Popular brands are Lindt, Godiva, Guylian, etc. Dark chocolate types include:
✅ Pure Dark Chocolate: Made from cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar, with no added fats other than cocoa butter. Pure dark chocolate must meet specific legal standards of cocoa content to be labeled "dark."
✅ Compound Dark Chocolate: Instead of pure cocoa butter, this type uses other vegetable fats (like palm or coconut oil) to reduce costs and alter the melting profile. Compound chocolate is more affordable and easier to work with in confectionery.
Milk Chocolate:
This is the most widely consumed chocolate type in the UAE, appealing across age groups. Milk chocolate contains milk powder or condensed milk, along with cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and sugar. The cocoa percentage is typically lower, ranging from 10-50%, which gives it a creamier texture and sweeter taste than dark chocolate but less antioxidant content. Imported milk chocolate typically includes products with added flavors, nuts, and caramel fillings. Top exporters are Switzerland, Belgium, UK. Popular brands are Cadbury, Toblerone, Galaxy, etc. Milk chocolate types include:
✅ Pure Milk Chocolate: Uses only cocoa butter as the fat source, mixed with milk powder, sugar, and cocoa solids. The purity is marked by the absence of additional fats or oils.
✅ Compound Milk Chocolate: Contains vegetable fats other than cocoa butter. This type has a slightly different mouthfeel, often less smooth than pure milk chocolate, but is cheaper and has a longer shelf life.
White Chocolate:
White chocolate is unique as it doesn’t contain cocoa solids, only cocoa butter, milk solids, vanilla, and sugar, which gives it a creamy, sweet taste without the traditional "chocolate" flavor of cocoa. It’s technically not chocolate since it lacks cocoa solids. While less popular than milk and dark varieties, white chocolate holds a steady niche in the UAE market. Main exporters are Switzerland, Belgium and France. Common brands are Lindt, Godiva, Leonidas. White chocolate types include:
✅ Pure White Chocolate: Made exclusively from cocoa butter (the pure fat derived from cocoa beans), milk solids, and sugar. Pure white chocolate has a more refined flavor and melts smoothly.
✅ Compound White Chocolate: Uses vegetable fats in place of cocoa butter. This type is often used in baking or lower-cost confections due to its affordability and stable consistency.
Steps for Importing Chocolate Into the UAE
If you're handling the import yourself, follow these steps:
Contact Suppliers: Reach out to one of the suppliers in the country of origin find and example of listed companies or factories here. You can buy chocolate online at wholesale prices, too.
Request Offers: Inquire about offers from each supplier and choose the one that suits your needs.
Negotiate and Prepare: Once you've selected a supplier, agree on the quantity and required documents, you can ask for a sample first.
Shipping Arrangements: If the manufacturer does not handle shipping, arrange transport with a reliable chocolate shipping company.
Customs Clearance: Pay the customs fees to release the shipment.
Regulatory Requirements for Importing Chocolates into the UAE
Importing chocolates into the UAE involves meeting various regulatory requirements overseen by several UAE authorities. Here’s an overview of the essential steps and requirements:
License Types: Importers must obtain a business license from the UAE Department of Economic Development (DED) specific to food imports. If operating within a free zone, a unique import license for that zone is required. Free zones such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) or Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) are advantageous as they offer tax exemptions and simplified customs processes for re-export
Product Registration: Chocolates must be registered through the local food authority, such as Dubai Municipality or Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, before their first import. This ensures products meet UAE standards for quality and safety, a process requiring comprehensive information about ingredients and the manufacturer
Arabic and English Labeling: Labels must be bilingual, specifying ingredients, nutritional content, and production and expiration dates. They should also clearly indicate the country of origin. Compliance with these standards is essential, as incorrect or non-compliant labeling can lead to shipment rejections
Shelf-Life Requirements: Chocolates are subject to stringent shelf-life regulations, so the expiration date should be sufficient for market distribution within the UAE
Documentation for Customs: Required shipping documents include a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, packing list, and a health certificate from the country of origin confirming the product’s safety for human consumption.
Customs Inspection and Sampling: Imported chocolates undergo physical inspections at entry points. Customs authorities may collect random samples for laboratory analysis, checking for compliance with UAE health and quality standards. This includes testing for allergens, additives, and potential contaminants. Higher-risk food products, like those with dairy or nuts, may be subject to more detailed inspection
VAT and Duties: Importers are required to pay VAT, usually 5%, unless exempted. Food imports are generally VAT-exempt, but specific processed items may incur duties depending on their classification under UAE customs law
Adherence to Local Storage and Distribution Standards: Chocolates, being temperature-sensitive, require proper storage conditions upon arrival. Importers must ensure that all handling, storage, and distribution practices comply with local regulations, especially as chocolate quality can degrade in high temperatures typical of the UAE. This step is easy when you partner with an expert freight forwarder.
Consider partnering with a licensed customs broker! Given the complexity of regulations, partnering with a customs broker can help streamline the import process, ensure compliance with UAE customs, and facilitate a smoother inspection and clearance process.
Factors Influencing Chocolate Shipping Costs
Indeed, the cost of shipping chocolates vary based on the weight and dimensions of the shipment, refrigeration needs, transportation mode, etc. Shipping chocolate requires maintaining ideal temperatures between 15°C and 18°C to prevent melting or blooming (when cocoa butter rises to the surface). The overall costs differ besed on your temperature and humidity requirements and monitoring systems needed in place whether for cargo in-transit or warehoused. Special packaging materials like insulated boxes, coolants like gel packs, or dry ice (for extreme climates) increase shipping costs by default, too.
Also, adding layers to prevent exposure to moisture, heat, or contamination. Similarly, transportation mode affects the total cost whether via air freight, sea freight, or multimodal shipping. Other cost factors include weight and Dimensions, seasonality and transit routes, customs duties and taxes, fuel surcharges at the time of shipping, port and brokerage fees, product-specific handling, perishability and insurance, and remote or difficult destination charges. Note that some chocolate products might require “Halal” certification.
It is always advisable to email us with your chocolate shipment description and logistics needed, so we can calculate your exact shipping quotation. At Vervo Middle East, we offer you a comprehensive shipping quote with no hidden fees along the way! Just fill out the shipping quotation request form.
Logistics Considerations For Shipping Chocolate
✅ Chocolates are very sensitive to temperature changes. Ideal storage and shipping temperature is around 15-18°C. We use data loggers with wireless connectivity to monitor temperature throughout shipment. Passive insulation with polyurethane or polystyrene lining can also help.
✅ Chocolate absorbs ambient humidity. Ideal relative humidity for storage and shipping is less than 65%. Desiccants or humidity absorbers are commonly put in chocolate packaging. 10-15g of silica gel per box is often sufficient. We measure moisture levels with hydrometers and adjust desiccant amounts accordingly.
✅ The shelf life of chocolates depends on the formulation but is often around 6-12 months. Shipping timelines need to account for remaining shelf life upon delivery. Chocolates close to expiry may need expedited shipping under ideal temperature conditions.
✅ Packaging that withstand shipping hazards includes inner individual wrappers, plastic trays or paper cups to separate chocolates, outer corrugated boxes, etc. Modified atmosphere packaging may be used for added protection. CO2 below 5% and O2 below 1% are optimal for shelf life
Remember, choosing the right shipping method, along with the right insurance coverage, is key to protecting your chocolate in transit. Consult with our team today to determine which options are best for your chocolate shipping:
Vervo Middle East: Chocolate Shipping Services to the UAE
It is simple!
1️⃣ We pick up your chocolates to be stored till shipping or shipped via air, sea, or multimodal freight in climate-controlled containers (over 120 destinations are covered!).
2️⃣ Refrigerated trucking to maintain ideal temperature during transport and route optimization for efficient delivery scheduling and supply chain coordination
3️⃣ Customs brokerage and customizable cargo insurance are available, as needed. Our licensed customs broker clears the chocolates through import customs.
4️⃣ Our broker contacts you when the chocolates arrive to arrange release from climate-controlled storage and provide all documentation for handover.
5️⃣ You pay the relevant import taxes and duties directly to the broker to complete the import process.
6️⃣ We arrange temperature-controlled warehousing to store and distribute chocolate inventory at optimal 60-70°F, as needed.
7️⃣ Insulated packaging solutions are available, as needed, along with real-time inventory monitoring.
Vervo Middle East provides end-to-end assistance, from picking up your chocolates to facilitating shipping, customs clearance, and final temperature-controlled delivery. To get a quotation for shipping your chocolates, reach out to our logistics team:
