Shipping Policy - Delivery Times & Fulfillment Info

📦 SHIPPING POLICY

How Our Shipping Works

We ship directly from artisan makers around the world to your door—anywhere in the world.

Each item in our collection is handcrafted in its country of origin—from Tunisia to Peru, Estonia to Uganda. When you place an order, your items ship directly from the maker to you, ensuring authenticity and supporting traditional craft communities.

When will my order ship?

  • Orders are processed within 1–3 business days of being placed (Mon–Fri, excluding public holidays)
  • Orders placed after 2:00 PM GST are processed the next business day
  • During peak seasons (holidays, festivals), allow an extra 1–2 days for processing
  • Once your order is confirmed, our makers begin preparing your piece for its journey.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery worldwide: 8-14 business days from order date

This timeframe reflects:

  • Artisan preparation and careful packing
  • International shipping from maker to your location
  • Customs clearance in your country

🌍 Why the range? Products ship from different countries:

  • Faster origins (10-14 days): UK, Europe, Hong Kong
  • Standard origins (12-18 days): USA, Tunisia, China
  • Longer origins (18-22 days): Uganda, Mexico, Peru, Latin America

Important: These are estimates, not guarantees. International shipping may be affected by:

  • Customs processing times in your country
  • Public holidays in origin or destination countries
  • Courier delays beyond our control
  • Remote or rural delivery addresses may add 2-5 days

📬 Time-sensitive order? Contact us at info@thegiftshopuae.com before purchasing, and we'll advise on current availability and realistic delivery windows for your location.

Will all items arrive together?

Not always.

If you order multiple items from different makers (different origin countries), they will ship separately and may arrive on different days. Each shipment includes individual tracking.

Example: An indigo pillow from Laos and a ceramic mug from Hong Kong will arrive as two separate packages.

What does shipping cost?

  • Standard rate: $10 per order, worldwide (covers all items, even if shipping separately)
  • FREE shipping: Orders $70 and above, anywhere in the world

📦 What's included:

  • Careful packaging by the maker
  • International tracked shipping to your country
  • Updates at every stage

Not included:

  • Customs duties or import taxes (if applicable)—these are billed separately by your country's customs authorities

Do you offer express delivery?

No.

Our makers work with traditional techniques that can't be rushed. We prioritize:

  • Artisan working conditions and fair timelines
  • Quality control and careful packing
  • Intentional, sustainable gifting

This is slow commerce by design. The right gift is worth the wait.

Will I get tracking info?

Yes, always.

You'll receive a tracking email once your order ships.

⏱️ Note: Tracking links may take 24–48 hours to activate in the courier system, especially during international handoffs. If you don't see movement within 3 days, contact us.

During public holidays in the maker's country, tracking updates may be delayed but your order is en route.

🔄 RETURNS & EXCHANGES

Can I return an item?

Yes, within 30 days of delivery.

To qualify:

  • Item must be unused and in original packaging
  • Return shipping costs are paid by the customer (international returns may be costly—we recommend contacting us first to discuss options)
  • Items must be eligible for international return (some handmade items are final sale—noted on product page)

To initiate a return: Email info@thegiftshopuae.com with your order number and reason.

We'll guide you through the process and provide return instructions based on your location.

❓ COMMON QUESTIONS

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We deliver worldwide.

From Dubai to London, New York to Sydney—if you can receive international packages, we can ship to you.

Are customs duties/taxes included?

No. Import duties or taxes (if any) are determined and collected by your country's customs authorities. These charges are separate from your order total and paid directly to customs upon delivery or to the courier.

Each country has different customs thresholds and policies. You are responsible for any duties or taxes levied by your country.

What if my order is delayed?

We monitor every shipment and will notify you proactively if delays occur.

You can always reach us: info@thegiftshopuae.com

We're here to help track your order, liaise with couriers, and ensure your piece arrives safely—even if it takes a little longer than expected.

Why does artisan shipping take longer?

Because authenticity takes time.

Your purchase supports:

  • Fair wages for skilled makers
  • Preservation of vanishing craft traditions
  • Sustainable, small-batch production
  • Direct-from-maker shipping (no warehouses or middlemen)

Each piece is packed with care by the hands that made it. That care—and that journey—is part of the story.

Do shipping times vary by country?

Yes. While our 8-14 day estimate covers most destinations, remote locations or countries with stricter customs procedures may experience longer delivery times. Contact us if you have specific timing concerns for your region.

💝 OUR PROMISE

We believe the right gift is worth the wait.

Every order is a curated experience, packed with intention, care, and global soul. From the maker's hands to your home—wherever in the world that may be—we're with you every step of the journey.

Questions? We're always here: info@thegiftshopuae.com