Table of Contents
- The 2026 POPMART x Squid Game Phenomenon
- The Math: US Retail vs. UAE Resale Prices
- Why Sourcing from the US Makes Sense for UAE Residents
- Navigating Logistics with a US Package Forwarder
- Execution: How to Secure Your Molly Today
- UAE Customs and Import Duties in 2026
- Pro-Tips for Serious UAE Collectors
The 2026 POPMART x Squid Game Phenomenon
By early 2026, the collaboration between Pop Mart and Netflix’s Squid Game has reached a fever pitch. The POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% Squid Game edition is not just a toy; it is a high-value asset in the designer toy market. Combining the iconic silhouette of Molly in her space suit with the hauntingly recognizable pink guard or front-man aesthetics from the series, this 100% size (approx. 7.6cm) has become a must-have for display cases in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The hype is driven by limited production runs and the global resurgence of the franchise. While local UAE hobby shops occasionally stock these, they are often snatched up by scalpers or sold at a massive premium that ignores the actual manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).
The Math: US Retail vs. UAE Resale Prices
Let’s look at the numbers for 2026. In the United States, the retail price for a MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% usually sits between $25 and $35. In contrast, local boutique stores in the UAE or private sellers on secondary marketplaces often list these for 250 AED to 450 AED. Even with international shipping, the math favors the direct-from-US approach.
| Item/Cost | UAE Local Purchase | US Direct Import |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Price | 400 AED | 110 AED ($30) |
| Shipping & Tax | Free/Included | ~90 AED |
| Total | 400 AED | 200 AED |
By importing, you are essentially getting a 50% discount. To get a precise breakdown of the costs involved, you should use a shipping calculator to see exactly how much you will save based on the package weight.
Why Sourcing from the US Makes Sense for UAE Residents
The US market remains the primary hub for Pop Mart’s international releases and exclusive drops. US-based retailers often receive higher stock allocations compared to the Middle East. Furthermore, buying from official US stores ensures you are not receiving a high-quality counterfeit, a problem that has plagued regional secondary markets in 2026.
However, most US retailers do not offer direct shipping to the UAE, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where a comGateway account becomes an essential tool for any serious collector. By using a US-based address, you bypass shipping restrictions and gain access to domestic sales and promotions.
Navigating Logistics with a US Package Forwarder
International shipping doesn't have to be a headache if you understand how it works. When you shop at US stores like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, or even eBay, you ship the item to a tax-free warehouse in the US. Once it arrives, your reliable package forwarder notifies you, and you can decide when to ship it to your doorstep in the UAE.
For those worried about the complexity, the FAQ section on the forwarder's site covers everything from package consolidation to insurance. Consolidating multiple Molly figures into one box is the smartest way to lower your per-unit cost.
Understanding Shipping Fees to Dubai
Shipping fees are calculated based on either actual weight or volumetric weight. Since the POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% is small and lightweight, it is a perfect candidate for international shipping. You can check the latest international shipping rates to see the current 2026 pricing for shipments to the UAE. Generally, courier services like DHL or FedEx via a forwarder take only 3-5 business days to arrive in Dubai.
Execution: How to Secure Your Molly Today
Follow these steps to ensure you get your figure without the markup:
- Step 1: Register for a US shipping address.
- Step 2: Shop at official US retailers. Enter your assigned US suite number as the shipping address.
- Step 3: Once the item reaches the warehouse, check the weight and dimensions.
- Step 4: Select your preferred shipping method to the UAE. If you are a frequent shopper, consider Prime membership benefits to reduce costs on future imports.
- Step 5: Pay the shipping fee and track your package until it arrives at your home or office.
UAE Customs and Import Duties in 2026
When importing into the UAE, you must be aware of the 5% VAT and potential customs duties. For personal imports, the threshold for duty-free entry has remained relatively stable, but it is always wise to declare the correct value of your POPMART figure. Most forwarders will handle the customs clearance paperwork for you, making the process seamless. The 5% VAT is usually calculated on the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value. Even with this added 5%, the total cost remains significantly lower than buying from a local reseller.
Pro-Tips for Serious UAE Collectors
If you are looking to build a full set of the Squid Game Molly series, do not ship them one by one. Use the consolidation services provided by your forwarder. By holding your items at the US warehouse for up to 30 days, you can wait for multiple releases to arrive and ship them together in one box. This significantly reduces the "starting cost" of the first kilogram of shipping.
Additionally, keep an eye on US holiday sales. Even though the POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% Squid Game is a collectible, secondary retailers often include them in sitewide promotions, allowing you to stack savings on top of the already lower US retail price.
