Expanding from Thailand to the UAE: a guide for Thai founders and exporters
Trade between the UAE and Thailand is growing fast and a CEPA has been concluded. How Thai companies set up and sell in the UAE.
Trade between the UAE and Thailand is growing fast and a CEPA has been concluded. How Thai companies set up and sell in the UAE.
Why founders from Thailand choose the UAE
- Fast-growing trade between the two countries
- Demand for Thai food, wellness, hospitality and consumer products
- A hub for the GCC and Africa
Trade links
The UAE and Thailand concluded negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in October 2026. Non-oil trade reached USD 12.3 billion in 2025. The agreement still needs to be signed and implemented.
Setting up: the route most founders take
- A free zone company for trading and e-commerce
- A mainland licence for restaurants, spas and retail
- Check product registration for food, cosmetics and supplements
Going to market in the UAE
- Bilingual English and Arabic marketing
- Google Maps and Instagram for restaurants and wellness
- Distributors and marketplaces for packaged goods
How Eedlee helps
We help founders and companies from Thailand test demand, position for UAE buyers and launch: a UAE-ready website and product in English and Arabic, search and AI visibility, and lead generation aimed at the customers who fit.
Rules, fees and processes change. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.
Read next
- How to start a business in the UAE: the complete guide
- Mainland, free zone or offshore: which structure fits?
- UAE go-to-market playbook