UAE SME Export Support 2026: Programs, Trade Deals & How to Start

The Export Opportunity

Less than 15% of UAE-registered SMEs actively export. That's striking given the infrastructure: the world's largest port operator, 40+ free zones, and CEPA agreements slashing tariffs to zero.

Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI)

• Export credit insurance covering up to 90% of invoice value
• Trade finance facilitation — makes banks more willing to extend working capital
• Market risk assessments and buyer credit checks

Premiums typically under 1% of insured turnover.

CEPA Agreements

• India: Tariff elimination on 80%+ product lines
• Israel: Zero duties on 96% of goods
• Indonesia: Preferential access since 2024
• Turkey, Cambodia, African markets: Expanding zero-tariff network

SMEs that align processing with CEPA rules of origin can cut landed costs by 5–15% versus competitors from non-CEPA countries.

Dubai Export & Abu Dhabi Exports Office

Dubai Chambers: market intelligence, buyer-matching, subsidized trade shows. ADEX (Abu Dhabi): financing solutions, credit insurance, African and Central Asian market focus.

Free Zone Advantages

Jafza: Next to Jebel Ali Port — import, process, re-export duty-free. DMCC: Commodities trading hub. Dubai CommerCity: E-commerce fulfillment. See free zone vs mainland comparison.

Key Export Markets

• India: Largest non-oil partner, CEPA-boosted
• Saudi Arabia: Proximity, infrastructure demand
• Iraq: Fastest-growing destination
• China: Major re-export destination via DMCC/Jafza

How to Start

1. Pick one market using Dubai Export's reports
2. Get ECI export credit insurance
3. Check CEPA eligibility for your goods
4. Register for Ministry of Economy trade missions
5. Factor in UAE corporate tax in pricing
6. Start with trial shipments to a single buyer