The United Arab Emirates market for Indian granite slabs, tiles & monuments
Construction demand in Saudi Arabia and the UAE; Saudi SASO conformity may be needed for building materials.
Indian community in United Arab Emirates (Ministry of External Affairs estimate): 4,344,008 (NRI 4,326,248 + PIO 17,760) — largest NRI population after Saudi/US.
Granite Slabs, Tiles & Monuments specification for United Arab Emirates orders
| Parameter | Typical export value |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 18/20 mm and 30 mm slabs; 10-20 mm tiles (typical) |
| Slab size | Gangsaw ~270-320 x 160-200 cm; cutter slabs smaller (typical) |
| Finish | Polished, honed, flamed, leathered, brushed, bush-hammered (typical) |
| Water absorption | ≤ 0.40% (ASTM C615 requirement, typical) |
| Density | ≥ 2,560 kg/m³ (ASTM C615, typical) |
| Compressive strength | ≥ 131 MPa (ASTM C615, typical) |
Final values are agreed per contract, then confirmed by lab report or pre-shipment inspection.
Shipping granite slabs, tiles & monuments to United Arab Emirates
Typical sea transit Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva) → Jebel Ali: 3-6 days. Direct daily/near-daily services; feeders from all Indian ports; Gulf services were affected by the 2026 Hormuz disruption - check carrier advisories
Supply window: Indian granite slabs, tiles & monuments is mainly produced or harvested Harvest Dec-Feb (ASSUMPTION); Year-round. Allow 3-6 days at sea plus 5–10 days for inspection, export clearance and United Arab Emirates customs when you set delivery dates.
Container loading (estimate): 20' ~24-27 MT (≈ 450-500 m² of 2 cm or ≈ 320 m² of 3 cm slabs), 40' HC Not preferred - weight-limited; 20' used.
Quoted on FOB, CFR, CIF; CIF Jebel Ali is the common choice for first orders.
Where buyers are in United Arab Emirates
| City | Port / airport | Buyer sectors |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi Ports) / Zayed Port (Mina Zayed) · Abu Dhabi International / Zayed | government/oil-sector catering & FM contractors, construction materials, uniforms/textiles |
| Al Ain | Inland; Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi) / Jebel Ali (Dubai) · Al Ain International (AAN) | Indian grocery retail, agri-input importers, food processors |
Frequently asked questions
How long does shipping from India to United Arab Emirates take?
Typically 3-6 days port-to-port from Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva) to Jebel Ali, plus 5–10 days for stuffing, export clearance and destination clearance (estimates).
Does United Arab Emirates have a trade agreement with India?
India–UAE CEPA in force since 1 May 2022 — zero/reduced duty on ~97% of UAE tariff lines over time with a CEPA certificate of origin [S7][S8][06 §C.1] A preferential certificate of origin is needed to claim any reduced duty.
Which HS code applies to granite slabs, tiles & monuments from India?
Usually HS 680223. United Arab Emirates applies its own national tariff extension to the 6-digit code; confirm the full line with your broker.
What is the difference between gangsaw and cutter slabs?
Gangsaw slabs are cut from whole blocks into large uniform slabs. Cutter slabs are smaller, cut on block cutters, and cheaper.
Can I see the slabs before shipment?
Yes. Slab-by-slab photographs and a measured packing list are standard, and yard inspection can be arranged.
How many square metres fit in a container?
About 450-500 m² of 2 cm slabs or about 320 m² of 3 cm slabs per 20' container (ESTIMATED, weight-limited).
Related guides
Request a quote: granite slabs, tiles & monuments to United Arab Emirates
Tell us grade, quantity and your port in United Arab Emirates. We quote CIF/CFR with full export documentation.