Freight Forwarding Jobs in Dubai - How to Get Placed from Kerala

The UAE – Dubai especially – is already one of the busiest trade corridors in the world. With its world-leading ports, free zones and air cargo hubs, it is a global hub for forwarding, logistics and supply chain. This is an amazing opportunity for job aspirants in Kerala. “What we do know is that thousands of Malayalis already occupy the warehouses in positions in logistics from Ras Al Khaimah to Abu Dhabi and their numbers continue to swell.”

But setting foot in this competitive industry from Kerala is not just a matter of ambition. It requires the right expertise, effective job-seeking strategies and industry-accepted credentials. In this blog, we guide you through everything you need to know about from learning about the Dubai freight market to securing your first placement.

Why Dubai Is a Dream Destination for Freight Forwarding Professionals

Dubai serves as a central hub among Asia, Europe and Africa, annually taking in hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of trade. Jebel Ali Port the biggest artificial harbour in the world as well as Dubai International Airport, Dubaisouth and many freezones create an ever-growing demand for qualified freight and logistics staff.

Key reasons why Dubai tops the list for freight career seekers:

• High Salaries: Entry-level logistics coordinators earn AED 3,000–6,000/month; experienced professionals earn significantly more.
• Tax-Free Income: No personal income tax, maximising take-home pay.
• Career Growth: Companies like Agility, Aramex, DHL, Kuehne+Nagel, and Freightos have major Dubai operations with clear promotion ladders.
• Large Malayali Community: Kerala professionals are well-regarded in UAE logistics firms for their work ethic and English communication skills.
• Visa Pathways: Employment visas, free zone company sponsorships, and family sponsorships are all accessible.

Top Freight Forwarding Roles Available in Dubai

Before you begin your job search, understanding the roles available will help you target the right positions. Common openings include:

• Freight Forwarding Executive: Coordinating air, sea, and road cargo movements for importers and exporters.
• Customs Clearance Agent: Handling documentation, duties, and compliance for goods entering or exiting the UAE.
• Logistics Coordinator: Managing warehouse operations, inventory, last-mile delivery coordination.
• Import/Export Documentation Specialist: Preparing Bills of Lading, AWBs, commercial invoices, certificates of origin.
• Port Operations Executive: Overseeing vessel scheduling, cargo handling, and berth coordination at ports.
• Supply Chain Analyst: Data-driven role managing procurement, vendor coordination, and route optimisation.

The Qualification Gap  And How to Close It

Many Kerala job seekers have basic graduation degrees but lack industry-specific qualifications that Dubai employers explicitly require. This is where International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping becomes a game-changer. Employers in Dubai  especially multinational freight firms  prefer candidates who have completed accredited programmes in logistics, supply chain, or shipping.

The international certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding & shipping you receive while studying ensures that, on your first day of work, you won’t just understand how Incoterms, trade finance, cargo insurance, customs or freight documentation works – You’ll be doing it.

Some of the certifications accepted are programs by organisations such as the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), International Air Transport Association (IATA) etc.

Why Kerala Professionals Have a Competitive Edge

Keralities pursuing logistics careers actually have several natural advantages:

• Strong command of English  essential for international freight documentation
• Established diaspora networks in the UAE who can provide referrals and mentorship
• Kerala’s proximity to major ports like Cochin Port and Vizhinjam creates familiarity with port operations
• High literacy and computer proficiency  valuable for ERP and logistics software roles

However, this edge is amplified significantly when combined with recognised qualifications. Candidates who pair their degree with Port management courses in Trivandrum stand out because they demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge but hands-on understanding of port-specific operations  directly relevant to Dubai’s Jebel Ali ecosystem.

Port Management Courses in Trivandrum  A Strategic Career Booster

Port management courses in Trivandrum are increasingly sought after by logistics aspirants across Kerala who want to specialise before going abroad. These courses cover areas such as:

• Port planning, operations, and terminal management
• Maritime law and regulations
• Cargo handling systems and container logistics
• Safety and environmental compliance in port environments
• Documentation for import/export shipping

Doing a recognised port management course in Trivandrum and then applying to Dubai jobs show hiring managers that you are familiar with both ends of the logistics spectrum not just one piece. This is particularly beneficial for positions at port operator firms and shipping liners based in Jebel Ali.

How to Get Placed in Dubai from Kerala  Step-by-Step

Step 1: Invest in the Right Education and Certification

Start with an International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping. This single credential can open doors to companies in Dubai that would otherwise overlook entry-level candidates. If you are based in or near the capital, enrolling in Port management courses in Trivandrum adds a port-specific specialisation that is highly valued.

Step 2: Build a Gulf-Ready CV

Dubai employers look for specific elements in CVs:

• Mention relevant certifications prominently at the top of your resume
• Include any internship or experience with shipping agents, C&F agents, or freight companies
• Highlight knowledge of logistics software (SAP TM, CargoWise, Oracle Transportation Management)
• Quantify achievements  ‘processed X shipments per month’, ‘reduced documentation errors by Y%’

Step 3: Leverage Online Job Portals

Dubai’s most active freight job portals include:

• LinkedIn  the primary platform for logistics roles in the UAE
• Bayt.com  leading Middle East job portal
• GulfTalent.com  professional-level Gulf jobs
• Indeed UAE and Naukrigulf

Set up job alerts for terms like ‘freight forwarding executive Dubai’, ‘logistics coordinator UAE’, and ‘customs clearance agent Jebel Ali’.

Step 4: Connect with Kerala Recruitment Agencies

Several licensed recruitment agencies in Kerala specialise in Gulf placements for logistics and shipping roles. These agencies have direct tie-ups with Dubai-based companies and can fast-track your placement process. Always verify that the agency is registered and legitimate before paying any fees.

Step 5: Prepare for Competency-Based Interviews

Dubai freight employers often conduct structured interviews that test scenario-based knowledge:

• ‘How would you handle a customs hold on a perishable cargo?’
• ‘Walk me through the documentation process for an FCL sea shipment from India to UAE.’
• ‘What Incoterms apply when the buyer takes risk at the port of origin?’

Your certification programme should prepare you for these questions and treat coursework as interview preparation.

How MimsCareer Can Help You Make the Move

MimsCareer is committed to assist Kerala professionals in advancing their journey towards high growth Gulf careers. Careers and course advisorsVisibility, jobs and placement team (Visa transfer ready)Dedicated to Logistics & Freight Forwarding Industry. Whether you are a recent graduate or a working professional looking to improve their profile, MimsCareer gives the directions and tools to chart your career forward.

Salary Expectations for Freight Forwarding Jobs in Dubai (Kerala Placements)

Understanding what to expect financially helps you negotiate and plan better:

• Entry-level Freight Coordinator: AED 2,500 – 4,000/month (~₹61,000 – ₹98,000)
• Customs Clearance Agent (1–3 years): AED 4,000 – 7,000/month
• Logistics Supervisor (3–6 years): AED 7,000 – 11,000/month
• Freight Manager / Senior Operations: AED 11,000 – 20,000+/month

Salaries vary by company size, free zone vs. mainland operation, and specific specialisation. Port operations and air freight roles tend to command premiums.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a degree to get a freight forwarding job in Dubai from Kerala?

A degree is preferred but not always mandatory. However, holding an International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping can compensate for or complement your educational background and significantly improves your chances of placement.

2. Which certification is best for logistics and freight forwarding jobs in Dubai?

Certifications from globally recognised bodies such as CILT (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport), IATA (for air freight), and FIATA-affiliated programmes are highly respected by Dubai employers. An International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping from an accredited institution is your strongest credential.

3. Are port management courses in Trivandrum recognised by UAE companies?

Yes, provided they are offered by accredited institutions or affiliated with internationally recognised bodies. Port management courses in Trivandrum with recognised affiliations carry significant weight, especially for roles in port operations, shipping coordination, and terminal management.

4. How long does it take to get placed in a Dubai freight forwarding job from Kerala?

The timeline varies. With a completed certification and an active job search through proper channels, placements typically happen within 3 to 6 months. Working with a legitimate recruitment agency or a career platform like MimsCareer can accelerate the process.

5. Can freshers get freight forwarding jobs in Dubai from Kerala?

Yes. Freshers with an International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping are considered for entry-level roles such as freight coordinator, documentation executive, or customs assistant. Some companies also offer structured graduate trainee programmes.

6. What is the role of a freight forwarding executive in Dubai?

A freight forwarding executive manages the end-to-end movement of cargo  booking shipments with carriers, preparing export/import documentation, coordinating with customs agents, tracking shipments, and liaising with clients to ensure timely and compliant cargo delivery.

7. What is the average salary for a freight forwarding job in Dubai for someone from Kerala?

Entry-level salaries typically range from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 per month. With 2–3 years of experience and relevant certifications, professionals can earn AED 6,000 – AED 10,000 per month. Senior roles go well beyond that.

8. Is knowledge of Arabic required for logistics jobs in Dubai?

No. English is the primary business language in Dubai’s logistics and freight sector. Arabic can be an added advantage for roles involving client-facing communication with local businesses, but it is not a requirement for most freight forwarding positions.

9. How can I find a legitimate recruitment agency in Kerala for Dubai logistics jobs?

Look for agencies registered with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and listed on the eMigrate portal. Reputable career platforms like MimsCareer also connect job seekers with verified recruitment pathways. Always avoid agencies that demand large upfront fees before placement.

10. What documents do I need to apply for a freight forwarding job in Dubai from Kerala?

You will typically need: a valid passport (minimum 2 years validity), updated CV with certifications highlighted, educational degree certificates (attested), certification documents for your International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping or Port management courses in Trivandrum, and experience letters if applicable. Some roles may require a medical fitness certificate and police clearance certificate for visa processing.

The path from Kerala to a rewarding freight forwarding career in Dubai is well-trodden  and well within reach. The key is to equip yourself with the right credentials, use the right job search strategies, and partner with reliable career guidance platforms. Start with an International certification in Logistics and Freight Forwarding and shipping, consider adding Port management courses in Trivandrum to your profile, and take the first step today. Your Dubai placement story could begin sooner than you think.