What is a Letter of Credit and why is it important for trade?

Letter of Credit is a bank commitment guaranteeing payment upon document submission. Protects both buyer and seller from non-payment/non-delivery risks in international transactions.

How long does it take to issue a Letter of Credit in Dubai?

Standard LC issuance: 48-72 hours with complete documentation. Fast-track processing available (24 hours) for established customers with strong bank relationships.

What is the minimum transaction value for trade finance?

No strict minimum. Banks finance transactions from AED 10,000+. Most prefer AED 50,000+. Commodity traders access larger facilities (AED millions).

Can non-residents access trade finance in Dubai?

Yes. Non-residents can access trade finance if their business operates internationally and meets bank KYC requirements. Global correspondent networks support offshore trading.

What documents are required for trade finance?

Trade contract/proforma invoice, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, company registration, 6-12 months bank statements, ID copies.

What is an import LC and how does it work?

Importer's bank issues commitment to pay exporter upon document submission. Ensures importer gets correct goods, exporter gets paid on time.

What export finance options exist for exporters?

LC confirmation, LC discounting (advance payment), export insurance, trade guarantees, and documentary collection services.

Do Islamic banks offer trade finance solutions?

Yes. Emirates Islamic, DIB, RAKBANK Islamic offer Sharia-compliant LC, guarantees, and murabaha trade financing solutions.

What are back-to-back LCs and when are they used?

Bank LC issued in favor of exporter, then exporter's bank issues LC to their supplier. Used by traders financing both import and export.

How much does trade finance cost in UAE?

LC issuance fees: 0.25-1.5% of transaction value. Bank guarantees: 0.5-2% annually. Processing fees: AED 500-2,000 per transaction.

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Trade Financing Serv...

Trade Financing Services

Trade Financing Services in Dubai, UAE

Expand your global trade operations with secure and efficient trade financing solutions from UAE's leading banks. From letters of credit to export insurance, trade finance services provide competitive rates, fast processing, and tailored packages for importers and exporters.

Excellent

Letters of Credit (LC)

Fast issuance (48 hours)

Import/export financing

Trade guarantees available

Global correspondent network

Excellent

Commercial Financing Accounting and Bookkeeping Services VAT Consultants Corporate Tax Services Auditing Services

What Are Trade Financing Services?

Trade financing services help businesses manage international transactions without using up their cash reserves. They support imports, exports, and delayed payments, giving companies the working capital needed to keep operations running smoothly. These services reduce financial risks and ensure that payments are made on time, making cross-border trade simpler and more reliable.

Dubai is a strategic global trade hub, which makes it easier for businesses to access trade finance. Banks and financial institutions provide competitive rates, flexible terms, and tailored solutions for importers and exporters. This helps companies plan their transactions efficiently while staying within their budget and meeting international trade requirements.

With trade financing, companies can expand globally with confidence. It protects transactions, improves cash flow, and ensures compliance with UAE regulations. Oversight from the Central Bank and other authorities guarantees that cross-border trade remains secure and transparent. Trade finance gives businesses the tools they need to grow internationally while minimizing risk and maximizing efficiency.

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Types of Trade Finance Solutions

Letters of Credit (LC)

Bank commitment guaranteeing payment upon document submission. Provides security for both importers and exporters in international transactions.

Import Financing

Finance imported goods through trust receipts or cash. Manage cash flow between purchase and sale of goods.

Export Services

Mitigate non-payment risks. LC discounting, confirmation, and export insurance solutions.

Bank Guarantees

Ensures performance of contractual obligations. Bid bonds, performance bonds, and advance payment guarantees.

Commodity Finance

Tailor-made financing for commodity traders. Warehouse and bridge financing available.

Documentary Collections

Bank handles shipping documents. Release against payment or acceptance.

Required Documentation for Trade Finance

01.1. Trade Documents

Proforma invoice or sales/purchase contract. Bill of lading or airway bill. Commercial invoice with goods description and pricing. Certificate of origin. Insurance certificate or marine insurance if required.

02.2. Company Documents

Trade license (original/attested). MOA/AOA. Commercial registration from DED/FZA. Board Resolution authorizing LC application. Chamber of commerce membership. Certificate of good standing.

03.3. Financial & Banking

6-12 months bank statements (personal & business). Audited financials (2 years). VAT certificate and tax returns. Profit & loss and balance sheets. Bank reference letter. Trade finance facility agreement if existing.

04.4. Identity & Authority

Valid passport with UAE visa for signatories. Emirates ID or residence certificate. Business address proof: tenancy contract. Authorized trade personnel identification. Professional qualifications or business background.

Top UAE Banks for Trade Financing Services

Bank	Trade Loan Volume (AED B)	LC/Guarantees (AED B)	Key Services	Processing Time
FAB	63.26 (March 2025)	177.95 (end 2024)	Letters of Credit, guarantees, commodity finance	48-72 hours
Emirates NBD	40+ (estimated)	120+ (estimated)	Import/export LC, trade guarantees, financing	48 hours
CBD	15-20 (estimated)	50+ (estimated)	Islamic trade finance, import/export solutions	48 hours
DIB	12-18 (estimated)	40+ (estimated)	Sharia-compliant LC, trade guarantees	48-72 hours
HSBC	10-15 (estimated)	30+ (estimated)	Global LC confirmation, guarantees	2-3 days
Mashreq	8-12 (estimated)	25+ (estimated)	Trade finance, commodity solutions	48-72 hours
Emirates Islamic	8-10 (estimated)	20+ (estimated)	Islamic LC, trade guarantees, supply chain	48-72 hours
RAKBANK	5-8 (estimated)	15+ (estimated)	Islamic trade finance, import solutions	48-72 hours

Trade Financing Services - Expert Support

We connect exporters and importers with UAE's top-rated banks offering comprehensive trade finance solutions. Our team secures fast 48-hour LC issuance and competitive terms for global transactions.

We handle trade documentation, bank coordination, and LC negotiation, letting you focus on business growth. With global correspondent networks and expert support, we ensure secure, compliant international trade.

Trust our regulated partnerships to deliver transparent, results-driven trade financing tailored to your import-export business objectives across all global markets.

Trade Financing Services - Expert Support

We connect exporters and importers with UAE's top-rated banks offering comprehensive trade finance solutions. Our team secures fast 48-hour LC issuance and competitive terms for global transactions.

Trust our regulated partnerships to deliver transparent, results-driven trade financing tailored to your import-export business objectives across all global markets.

Streamline Your Global Trade Today

We help you secure trade financing from UAE banks, with fast LC approvals and full support for your import-export needs.