Arab Health is the Middle East's largest healthcare trade show and the world's second-largest medical exhibition after MEDICA, drawing 55,000 healthcare professionals from 180+ countries to Dubai each January. International medical device companies need an ATA Carnet to bring diagnostic equipment, surgical systems, and health technology into the UAE without paying import duties. The UAE is a full ATA Carnet member, making the process straightforward for experienced exhibitors.
International exhibitors at Arab Health need an ATA Carnet covering professional equipment and exhibition goods. The UAE accepts carnets for all standard ATA categories including medical devices for demonstration purposes. The carnet is valid for 12 months — sufficient for setup, the 4-day show, and return shipping.
8 weeks before Arab Health (November)
Begin equipment list. Medical devices require detailed technical descriptions. Gather FDA clearance numbers or CE marks for regulatory context.
5–6 weeks before
Submit carnet application. UAE Customs verifies medical equipment descriptions carefully — be specific about device type, model, and serial number.
3 weeks before
Receive carnet. Authorize your Dubai freight forwarder in writing to present it at DXB cargo or Jebel Ali on your behalf.
Arrival at DXB
Present carnet to UAE Customs at Dubai International Airport. Officers stamp importation vouchers. DWTC freight is cleared at the port of first entry.
Arab Health show days (approximately 4 days)
Keep carnet at your stand. UAE Customs may verify medical device documentation on the show floor.
Departure from UAE
Obtain re-exportation stamps from UAE Customs before equipment leaves the UAE. Essential for discharge.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return completed carnet to EasyCarnet for USCIB or Canadian Chamber discharge.
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Primary gateway — UAE Customs experienced with carnet processing during Arab Health January season
Dubai World Trade Centre
Arab Health venue; freight coordinated through DWTC's official logistics partner with carnet documentation
Jebel Ali Port
Sea freight entry for large medical equipment; one of the world's busiest container ports with efficient customs processing
Ready to apply?
Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
Start ApplicationStarting at $499 for equipment valued under $10k. Same-day processing available for last-minute bookings.