Everything UAE importers need to know β from visa & costs to suppliers, shipping, and ROI.
The Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair) is the worldβs largest sourcing exhibition, featuring 25,000+ exhibitors and 200,000+ international buyers.
Meet verified Chinese manufacturers without intermediaries
Negotiate competitive pricing at source
Build OEM and private label brands for GCC markets
Leverage UAE free zones for regional distribution
China is a major sourcing partner for UAE traders, wholesalers, and distributors serving the GCC, Africa, and South Asia.
| Phase | Dates (2026) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 15β19 April | Electronics, Machinery, Hardware |
| Phase 2 | 23β27 April | Home, Lifestyle, Gifts |
| Phase 3 | 1β5 May | Apparel, Medical, FMCG |
Phase 1 + Phase 2
Phase 2 + Phase 3
Phase 1
Location: Pazhou Complex, Guangzhou
DXB β CAN
AUH β CAN
SHJ β CAN
China M (Business) Visa
Required (Canton Fair or Chinese supplier)
4β7 working days
Chinese Visa Application Centres (UAE)
| Hotel Type | Area | Nightly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Pazhou | AED 300 β 450 |
| Mid-Range | Tianhe | AED 500 β 750 |
| Luxury | Zhujiang New Town | AED 900 β 1,400 |
| Method | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight | 18β25 days | Bulk & container cargo |
| Air Freight | 4β7 days | Urgent shipments |
| Express | 3β5 days | Samples |
Reduce reliance on local distributors
Negotiate quantities for test launches
Ensure Arabic & English labelling where required
Prepare products for Amazon.ae & Noon
Excellent ROI when combined with supplier verification and compliance.
Pre-fair preparation & on-ground support
Factory audits & background checks
Quality inspections
Pricing, MOQ & contract negotiation
Door-to-door shipping to the UAE
Get expert guidance and maximise your sourcing success