The use of postal codes is of utmost importance in mail delivery systems all over the world. It helps in delivering parcels and letters to the correct address very easily with the UAE postal codes. Which postal codes are used in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a unique method of addressing and delivering mail. If you are new to the UAE or if you just want to know how to send and receive mail, this guide will help you understand everything related to postal codes in the UAE.
Does UAE Have a Postal Code?
Unlike many countries that usually use numerical postal codes to identify specific locations, the UAE does not have a conventional postal code system. The country utilizes a mixture of area names, landmarks, and PO Box numbers instead for mail distribution. This means that individuals and companies have to follow other methods to properly get the letter or parcel delivered.
Ways to Receive Mail in the UAE?
One of the things that makes the UAE unique is that it does not have a conventional postal code system. However, residents and businesses have some ways of getting mail, some of which are highlighted below:
1. PO Box System
Emirates Post provides PO Box services for both individuals and businesses.
Residents need to rent a PO Box at their nearest post office and use the assigned number as their mailing address.
Example: John Doe, PO Box 12345, Dubai, UAE.
Annual fees apply for the rental of a PO Box, and the prices vary according to the location and the size of the box.
2. Emirates Post Services
Emirates Post operates as the primary postal service in the country.
They offer both local and international mailing services, including express delivery options.
Emirates Post teams up with various courier services for reliable delivery.
3. Home Delivery Services
Some courier companies and even Emirates Post provide home delivery services.
However, these two options may not be widely available in all areas consequently making PO Boxes the preferred means of receiving mail.
Selected premium courier services are equipped with GPS routes and set time of delivery.
P.O. Box Numbers in the UAE
While the UAE does not use postal codes, each emirate has designated PO Box numbers that are commonly used for mailing purposes. Below is a list of primary PO Box numbers and their respective collection locations:
Emirate | P.O. Box Number | Collection Location |
Abu Dhabi Postal Code | 3838 or 111188 | Madinat Zayed CPO |
Ajman Postal Code | 6263 | Al Bustan CPO |
Al Ain Postal Code | 88888 | Central P.O. |
Dubai, Bur Dubai Postal Code | 111311 | Karama CPO |
Dubai, Deira Postal Code | 88878 | Deira Main P.O., Hor Al Anz East |
Fujairah Postal Code | 3999 | Central P.O. |
Ras Al Khaimah Postal Code | 30999 | Central P.O. |
Sharjah Postal Code | 32223 | Central P.O. |
Umm Al Quwain Postal Code | 660 | Al Ras CPO |
If you are looking for specific postal codes in the UAE? Whether you’re sending mail to Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, or other emirates, you can check related area postal codes! Check out our detailed guides on the Dubai postal code, Sharjah postal code, Ras Al Khaimah postal code, and Abu Dhabi postal code, Deira Dubai Postal Code, Al Barsha Postal Code, for exact zip codes, delivery zones, and tips to ensure your parcels arrive smoothly. Explore all our UAE postal code blogs to find the exact information you need!
Alternatives to Postal Codes in the UAE
Since the traditional postal code of the UAE is not in use, the state has made property lookup systems on its own:
Area Names and Landmarks
- Addresses in UAE often come with major cities or attractions.
- Example: ABC Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE.
- Landmark streets and office buildings that are particularly known to the communities are the main references in the address.
Makani Number System
- The Makani system is a smart location-based addressing system used primarily in Dubai.
- Every building has a unique 10-digit Makani number that helps in pinpointing its exact location.
- This system is useful for delivery services, emergency responders, and government services.
- Makani numbers can be accessed through the Makani mobile app or the Dubai Municipality website.
Locating Your PO Box Number
If you are going to get mail in the UAE, it is more likely that you will have to get a PO Box. Below are directions on how to get one:
- Go to the closest Emirates Post office.
- Choose between individual or corporate PO Box rental options.
- Complete the registration and payment process.
- Once assigned, use your PO Box number as your mailing address.
- Emirates Post provides both short-term and long-term rental plans to meet various needs.
FAQs
- What should I enter when a website requires a postal code?
If a website requests a postal code, you may enter either “00000” or “N/A” as the UAE does not have a regular postal code system. - Can I receive mail without a PO Box?
A few courier companies provide home delivery, but for formal positions, one has to have a PO Box. - How do businesses manage postal services?
Businesses usually get corporate PO Boxes for their official communication. Some also engage courier services to send and receive documents and packages. - Is there a postal code for Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
No, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates have no officially recognized postal codes. Instead, they use area names, landmarks, and Makani numbers to identify addresses. - What will happen if I don’t have a PO Box?
In case you don’t have a PO Box, you may have to rely on the private courier services or use your friend, or employer’s PO Box to receive the mail. - Are there digital addressing systems in the UAE?
Yes, both the Makani system and Google Maps location sharing are widely used for precise delivery and navigation.
Conclusion
Although the UAE doesn’t follow a conventional postal code system, living in and doing business in the country is still convenient with systems like PO Boxes, the Makani number system, and courier services available. If you are living in the UAE or just visiting, the best and most reliable way to get your mail delivered is through renting a PO Box or using a courier service. Also, if you are updated on the new addressing methods like using Makani for both deliveries and navigation, your mobility in the country will be easier and more effective.