Buying the Pop Mart Labubu Year of the Horse from the US to the UAE is simpler than people think
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Why the 2026 Labubu Horse series is taking over
Authentic Labubu figures are getting harder to find at local retail prices in Dubai. Since the February 2026 release of the Pop Mart Labubu 'Year of the Horse' series, collectors have been scrambling to find genuine units. This specific zodiac collection is currently the most sought-after collectible in Thailand, and that demand has spilled over heavily into the Middle East market.
The Horse series features Labubu in various equestrian-themed outfits, blending traditional Chinese zodiac symbols with the signature mischievous aesthetic of the character. Because counterfeit versions are already appearing in secondary markets, many collectors in the UAE are looking toward US retailers to find verified, original stock. It is a smart move because US stores often have stricter inventory controls for Pop Mart releases compared to unverified third-party sellers online.
The blueprint for buying from US stores
The foundation of a successful acquisition plan starts with knowing where to look. Major retailers like the official Pop Mart US store, Mindzai, and even specialty shops on platforms like eBay (from reputable sellers) are the primary sources for the Year of the Horse series. However, most of these stores do not offer direct or affordable shipping to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
The structural plan for your purchase should involve a package forwarding solution. By using a US-based address, you can shop at these retailers as if you were living in the States. This often allows you to access better pricing and exclusive 2026 bundles that aren't available internationally. To get started, you simply shop US store websites and use your provided tax-free address at checkout.
Using a package forwarding service for UAE delivery
Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, the next phase of the blueprint is the transit to your home. Using a freight forwarder allows you to consolidate multiple orders if you are also eyeing other 2026 drops. This is a great way to save on costs compared to shipping items individually.
To ensure a smooth United Arab Emirates delivery, you should choose a provider that handles the logistics from end to end. An international shipping service like comGateway provides the necessary tracking and security for high-value collectibles. You can even check the international shipping rates beforehand so there are no surprises when the bill arrives.
Shipping estimates and box dimensions
Before hitting the buy button, it is helpful to look at the physical specifications of these items. Most Labubu blind boxes or small figures are quite light, but the packaging adds up. If you are buying a full set of the Year of the Horse series, the weight and volume will increase significantly.
| Detail | Estimate for Labubu 'Year of the Horse' |
|---|---|
| Box Weight | Approx. 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) for a single blind box; ~2.5 kg for a full case. |
| Box Dimensions | Small (Approx. 15cm x 10cm x 10cm for single units). |
| Volumetric Warning | The plush versions of this series are light but bulky. Large plushies may be charged based on space rather than weight. |
| Battery Check | This item does NOT contain lithium batteries. Standard shipping applies. |
If you want to be precise, you can use a shipping calculator to get a clear idea of what the final cost will be. This helps you decide if it’s better to buy one figure or the whole set at once.
Managing import duties in the UAE
Shipping to the Middle East involves some paperwork, but it is nothing to worry about if you are prepared. For a ship to United Arab Emirates order, you should keep in mind that the UAE generally applies a 5% VAT on most imported goods. Additionally, if your total shipment value exceeds 1,000 AED, you may be subject to additional import duties.
You might also like to check our guide on customs tax for a deeper look at how to minimize these costs. Most collectors find that even with these fees, the total price is still lower than the inflated prices found on local 2026 resale markets. Keeping your invoices ready and ensuring your parcel forwarding service declares the correct value will prevent any delays at Dubai Customs.
This architectural approach to buying—sourcing from the US, using a freight forwarder, and calculating your international shipping ahead of time—is the most reliable way to get your hands on the Year of the Horse Labubu without the stress of fakes or overpricing.
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