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Import Garments in UAE from India Without Compliance Hassles

Summary


Import garments from India to UAE with confidence by understanding export norms, import licenses, ECAS certification, labeling rules, and bulk trade requirements. India’s cost-effective, sustainable manufacturing and strong India–UAE trade relations make garment imports smooth, compliant, and profitable when handled with the right partner.


Introduction


“From India’s textile mills to Dubai’s fashion boutiques, every garment travels through a regulated journey.”


Import Garments in UAE from India Without Compliance Hassles

If you want to import garments from India to the UAE, the process is quite simple. With the right licenses and documents in place, shipments move smoothly through customs. By following the guidelines, you can avoid delays and easily bring Indian garments into the UAE market.


In this guide, we’ll walk you through:


  • Why UAE retailers rely on India for garment imports

  • The latest export norms in India and import rules in the UAE

  • The licenses required for bulk import-export

  • The role of sustainable and private-label garment manufacturing in this trade


By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to keep your import journey smooth, legal, and profitable.



Why UAE Retailers Import Garments from India


India has become the go-to hub for UAE retailers and wholesalers looking for quality garments. Here’s why this partnership is stronger than ever:


1. Supportive Export Policies in India


India’s Foreign Trade Policy (2023–28) actively supports textile exports. It promotes:


  • Value-added garments

  • Sustainable and organic textiles

  • Clear classification under HS / ITC (HS) codes


This means Indian exporters are better prepared to meet international buyers’ requirements.


2. Competitive Manufacturing Costs


India’s cost advantage is unbeatable. With skilled labor, abundant raw materials, and large-scale production, Indian garments are not only affordable but also maintain high quality.


3. Strong India–UAE Trade Relations


The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and UAE reduces trade barriers. This leads to:


  • Faster customs clearance

  • Lower tariffs

  • Predictable regulatory processes


4. Compliance with UAE Standards


Indian exporters are adapting quickly to UAE’s strict standards such as ECAS certification, safety checks, and Arabic labeling. This reduces the chances of shipment rejection.


5. Rise of Sustainable Fashion


With consumers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi demanding organic, eco-friendly clothing, India is well-positioned. Many exporters now hold GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and Textile Exchange certifications, making Indian garments even more attractive in the UAE market.


👉 In short, importing garments from India to UAE is not just cost-effective, it’s strategic for long-term growth.



Norms & Licenses Required in India for Exporting Garments


To legally export garments from India to UAE, especially in bulk, exporters must follow certain norms and licensing rules. Let’s break them down step by step:


1. Importer Exporter Code (IEC)


  • Issued by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).

  • Mandatory for any export activity.

  • Without IEC, garments cannot legally leave India.


2. Correct HS / ITC (HS) Classification


  • Garments fall under Chapter 61 and 62 in HS Codes.

  • Most are under the “Free” export category, but always check the latest DGFT notifications.

  • For organic garments, DGFT clarified in Policy Circular No. 1/2025-26 that exporters can use GOTS or Textile Exchange certifications without NPOP approval.


3. Export Documentation


Every shipment must include:


  • Commercial Invoice (details, description, value)

  • Packing List (carton-wise details)

  • Shipping Bill (mandatory for customs clearance)

  • Certificate of Origin (from Chamber of Commerce)

  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill


4. Bulk Export Registrations


  • RCMC (Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate) with AEPC or other textile export councils. This helps with government schemes and export incentives.

  • GST Registration – for legal invoicing and zero-rated exports.

  • Letter of Undertaking (LUT) – so you don’t pay GST on exports.


5. Product Quality & Testing Norms


  • Many UAE buyers demand tests on fiber content, flammability, harmful chemicals, and durability.

  • Labs must be accredited by authorities like ISO/IEC 17025.

  • For organic garments: certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX, Textile Exchange may be required.


6. Labeling Requirements (India side)


Labels must show:


  • Fabric content

  • Washing / care instructions

  • Country of origin (“Made in India”)


💡 Pro tip: Prepare bilingual labels (English + Arabic) at source to avoid re-labeling in UAE.



Norms & Import Licenses in the UAE


Once your garments leave India, they must enter the UAE market legally. Here’s what importers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates need:


1. Trade License / Import License


  • Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a Free Zone Authority.

  • Mainland license = sell across UAE.

  • Free Zone license = operate within the zone (selling in mainland requires a distributor).


2. Importer Code with UAE Customs


  • Every importer must register with UAE Customs.

  • Without this code, you cannot clear shipments.


3. ECAS Certificate of Conformity


  • Under Cabinet Resolution No. 54 of 2019, textile products must meet ECAS standards.

  • Certification is issued by ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology).

  • Requires lab test reports from accredited labs.

  • Valid for one year, renewable.


4. Labeling & Marking Rules


Labels must include:


  • Fabric composition

  • Care instructions

  • Size & type of garment

  • Manufacturer or brand name

  • Batch / lot code

  • Country of origin (“Made in India”)

  • Must be in Arabic or bilingual (English + Arabic)


5. Restricted & Prohibited Items




Bulk Import-Export: Special Considerations


When importing in bulk, additional rules apply:


India Side (Exporting in Bulk)


  • IEC and GST must be valid.

  • RCMC membership recommended for schemes and smooth clearances.

  • Keep HS code classification updated to avoid penalties.


UAE Side (Importing in Bulk)


  • An import license must cover import + wholesale/retail activities.

  • ECAS certificates must be obtained for each SKU/model.

  • VAT registration is required if turnover exceeds threshold.


Customs Duties & Taxes


  • UAE customs duty on garments = 5% of CIF value (varies by HS code).

  • VAT = 5% on CIF + duty + handling charges.

  • Testing & ECAS certification costs must be factored into the price.



Challenges Importers Face


Despite the opportunity, many businesses face:


  • Delays from missing documents

  • Rejections due to missing Arabic labels

  • Higher duties from incorrect HS codes

  • Quality issues from inexperienced suppliers


💡 Solution: Always work with an experienced clothing manufacturer in India and supplier to UAE who understands compliance on both sides.


Import Garments in UAE from India From NoName

Why Choose NoName as Your Garment Supplier To The UAE?


When importing garments from India to UAE, the right partner can make all the difference.

NoName is recognized as the most reliable clothing manufacturer in India and supplier to UAE. Here’s why:


  • Bulk Export Expertise: End-to-end compliance, IEC-ready, and ECAS-compliant.

  • Private Label Solutions: Perfect for UAE brands looking to launch or expand.

  • Sustainable Fashion: Certified as a sustainable clothing manufacturer in India, offering organic and eco-friendly fabrics.

  • Flexi MOQ: Flexible minimum orders, ideal for both startups and bulk buyers.

  • Customs-Ready Documentation: Every shipment comes fully compliant for UAE clearance.


👉 With NoName, you don’t just import garments, you import trust, compliance, and growth opportunities.



Conclusion


Importing garments from India to the UAE may seem complex with so many rules, licenses, and certificates. But once you understand the process, it becomes a profitable trade opportunity.

India provides cost-effective, sustainable, and compliant garments, while UAE offers a fast-growing retail market. With the right partner like NoName, you can make the process smooth and future-ready.


Ready to start importing garments from India to the UAE?


Contact NoName today and get a trusted partner who makes your journey easy, compliant, and profitable.


WhatsApp: +91-9717 508 508



FAQs 


Q1. Do I need an IEC to export garments from India?

Yes. An IEC issued by DGFT is mandatory for all exports. Without it, you cannot legally export garments.


Q2. What license is required in the UAE for garment imports?

You need a Trade License/Import License issued by DED UAE (for mainland) or the Free Zone Authority. Plus, you must register with UAE Customs.


Q3. Is ECAS certification mandatory for all garments?

Yes, under Cabinet Resolution No. 54 of 2019, most textile and garment imports require ECAS certification before clearance.


Q4. How much is customs duty on clothes in UAE?

Generally 5% of CIF value, plus 5% VAT. Always confirm with your HS code.


Q5. Can I import sustainable or organic garments easily?

Yes. India has simplified export rules for organic textiles. Certifications like GOTS or Textile Exchange are widely accepted in the UAE.


Q6. Can Free Zone companies import and sell garments in the UAE?

Yes, but they can sell only within the Free Zone unless they appoint a local distributor for mainland sales.


About the Author


This blog is written by Shraddha Srivastava, a fashion expert and industry observer known for breaking down complex trends into practical, actionable insights. With a strong understanding of garment manufacturing, retail, consumer psychology, and brand strategy, she also brings hands-on knowledge of apparel import–export processes, global compliance, and cross-border sourcing. Shraddha helps fashion brands navigate sourcing, imports, and market expansion—making growth simple, scalable, and data-driven.

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