Need to send a parcel from the UK to Dubai or anywhere in the UAE? Compare international courier prices and save up to 50%. We cover customs requirements, delivery times, and the cheapest options for shipping to the Emirates.

How much does it cost to send a parcel to Dubai?

Sending a parcel from the UK to Dubai starts from around £11.99 for a small 1kg package using an economy service. Express delivery with tracking typically costs £21.99–£48.00 depending on weight. Booking through Parcelfire saves 30–50% versus going direct to the courier.

UK to Dubai courier prices

Service	Small (1kg)	Medium (5kg)	Large (15kg)	Delivery time
Economy (Royal Mail / Parcelforce)	£11.99	£28.99	£48.99	10–18 days
Standard (DHL / UPS)	£21.99	£44.50	£68.50	3–5 days
Express (DHL Express / FedEx)	£29.99	£59.50	£88.00	1–3 days
Aramex	£13.99	£32.99	£54.99	5–8 days

Prices shown are approximate via comparison booking. Direct courier prices are typically 20–40% higher. UAE customs duties may apply on arrival.

Customs & documentation for the UAE

The UAE applies 5% customs duty on most imported goods valued over AED 1,000 (approximately £220). Below this threshold, personal shipments are generally duty-free. The UAE also charges 5% VAT on imports. The UAE has a relatively straightforward customs process, but certain items are strictly prohibited including pork products, gambling equipment, and certain medications without a prescription.

All shipments require a customs declaration (CN23). Dubai customs is efficient and most parcels clear within 1–2 business days. The recipient may need to provide their Emirates ID for higher-value shipments.

Best couriers for UK to Dubai

Dubai is a major international logistics hub, so courier coverage is excellent. DHL Express and FedEx offer next-day or 2-day delivery from the UK. Aramex is a strong regional choice with competitive Middle East pricing. Royal Mail International Tracked provides the cheapest option at £11.99 for 1kg with 10–18 day delivery.

Tips for sending to Dubai

The UAE has a generous duty-free threshold. Shipments under AED 1,000 are generally duty-free with just 5% VAT.
Never send pork, alcohol, or gambling items. These are prohibited or heavily restricted in the UAE.
Check medication rules carefully. Many common UK medications require a prescription letter for import into the UAE.
Dubai addresses can be complex. Include the building name, apartment number, area, and emirate for reliable delivery.
DHL has its regional hub in Dubai. This makes them particularly fast and reliable for UAE deliveries.

The bottom line

Sending a parcel from the UK to Dubai starts from just £11.99 for economy services. Dubai's excellent logistics infrastructure means express delivery is fast and reliable. Enter your parcel details below to see live quotes.

Send a Parcel from the UK to Dubai — Compare Prices