FAQ

Getting Started with Marhaba Agro

Navigating a new platform or service provider can bring up a lot of questions. Whether you are a seasoned trader looking for a new logistics partner or a supplier entering the GCC market for the first time, we want you to feel confident in how we operate. Below, we have compiled the most common questions we receive to help you understand how Marhaba Agro Commercial Brokers can support your business.

General Questions

What exactly does Marhaba Agro Commercial Brokers do?

Think of us as your all-in-one partner for agricultural trade. We are a hybrid service provider. On one hand, we act as a commercial broker, connecting buyers and suppliers of agro-commodities (like grains, pulses, spices, and fresh produce). On the other hand, we act as an operations coordinator. We don’t just introduce you to a deal; we help you execute it by coordinating logistics, warehousing, customs clearance, and cross-border transport. We simplify the entire trade lifecycle into a single, managed process.

Is Marhaba Agro a marketplace or a service provider?

We are both. We operate a platform where buyers can post requirements (RFQs) and suppliers can list products, functioning like a marketplace. However, unlike a passive directory, we actively manage the transaction. We provide the “service” layer—verifying users, facilitating negotiations, and physically coordinating the movement of goods through our network of vetted partners.

Who can use the Marhaba Agro platform?

Our ecosystem is open to professional entities involved in the agricultural supply chain. This includes:

  • Suppliers/Exporters: Farmers, processors, and trading houses looking to sell products.
  • Buyers/Importers: Wholesalers, food manufacturers, retailers, and distributors looking to source products.
  • Brokers/Agents: Intermediaries looking to monetize their network by connecting deals on our platform.
  • Logistics Providers: While we have our own vetted network, we are always open to onboarding high-quality transport and warehousing partners.
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Do you own the products you sell?

Generally, no. We act as brokers and facilitators. We connect you with verified suppliers who own the stock. However, we ensure that the suppliers we recommend have been vetted and that the stock exists. In some specific cases, we may hold spot inventory for immediate liquidation, but our primary model is brokerage.

Which regions do you cover?

Our primary operational hub is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), serving as a gateway to the broader GCC region (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain). We facilitate imports from global origins (such as India, Canada, Brazil, Vietnam) into the GCC, and we also manage re-exports from the UAE to markets in Africa and Europe.

Membership & Brokerage

We offer flexible ways to engage with us, whether you want to trade directly or facilitate deals for others. Here is how our membership and broker programs work.

Membership & Plans

Is it free to join Marhaba Agro?

Yes, we offer a Basic Plan that is completely free. This allows you to register, create a verified company profile, and access standard RFQs and listings. It is perfect for getting started. For businesses that need higher visibility, priority access to leads, and dedicated support, we offer paid Pro and Elite membership tiers.

What are the benefits of upgrading to a paid membership?

Paid members get a competitive edge. The key benefits include:

  • Early Access: See new RFQs before free members do.
  • Visibility: Your profile and products appear at the top of search results.
  • Trust: You get a “Verified Member” badge that builds instant credibility.
  • Support: You receive priority customer service and, for Elite members, a dedicated account manager.
Can I cancel my membership at any time?

Yes. Our paid memberships are typically billed on a monthly or annual basis. You can choose not to renew your subscription at the end of your billing cycle. However, we do not offer refunds for partial months or unused portions of an annual term.

For Brokers

How do I register as a broker?

It’s simple. Go to our registration page and select “Broker” as your user type. You will need to provide valid identification and, if applicable, your company registration documents. Once our compliance team reviews and approves your application, you will gain access to the broker dashboard.

How are commissions calculated?

We believe in transparency. Commissions are agreed upon before a deal is finalized. We typically use one of two methods:

  • Percentage of Invoice: A fixed percentage (e.g., 1% or 2%) of the Commercial Invoice value.
  • Fixed Fee: A specific dollar amount per Metric Ton (MT) or per container.
    The specific rate depends on the commodity, the volume, and the complexity of the deal.
When do brokers get paid?

We operate on a “Success-Based” model. Commissions become Payable only after the transaction is successfully executed—meaning the buyer has paid, and the goods have been delivered (or documents transferred). Once these milestones are met, payments are processed within the timeframe specified in your Brokerage Agreement, usually 7-14 days.

How do you protect my commission?

We use formal Commission Protection Agreements or include commission clauses directly in the Deal Confirmation signed by all parties. By documenting the commission obligation within the platform’s ecosystem, we create a binding record. We do not support “side deals” made verbally; protection only applies to deals managed through Marhaba.

Logistics, Customs & Trade Execution

Moving goods is where the real work happens. Here are answers to common questions about our operational support.

Logistics & Warehousing

Do I have to use Marhaba's logistics services if I buy through the platform?

You are not obligated to, but it is highly recommended. Using our coordinated logistics ensures a smoother transaction because we have visibility over both the commercial and logistical sides of the deal. If you choose to use your own forwarder, you are responsible for coordination once the goods are handed over.

What kind of warehousing do you offer?

We coordinate a wide range of storage solutions through our partners in the UAE (Dubai, Sharjah, Jebel Ali). This includes:

  • Dry Storage: For grains, pulses, and non-perishables.
  • Temperature-Controlled: Cool and cold storage for fresh fruits, vegetables, and dates.

Bonded Warehousing: Storage inside Free Zones (like JAFZA) for goods in transit or re-export, allowing you to defer duty payments.

Can you handle cross-border transport to Saudi Arabia or Oman?

Yes. We specialize in cross-GCC road transport. We coordinate the trucks, manage the border documentation, and ensure compliance with specific import regulations (like SABER for KSA). We handle both dry and refrigerated trucks.

Customs Clearance

Do you handle customs clearance for imports?

Yes. We coordinate customs clearance for both imports into the UAE and exports out of the UAE. We work with licensed clearing agents who specialize in agricultural products. We handle the Bill of Entry, inspection coordination, and duty payments (on your behalf).

What documents do I need for agro-imports?

Agricultural goods require specific documentation to clear customs. At a minimum, you typically need:

  • Original Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Phytosanitary Certificate (for plant products) or Health Certificate (for processed food)

Halal Certificate (for meat products)
Our team reviews these documents before shipment to ensure they meet UAE/GCC standards.

Can you help with re-exporting goods?

Absolutely. The UAE is a global re-export hub. We can manage the entire process: receiving goods into a Free Zone (transit status), consolidating or repacking them if needed, and then coordinating the outbound shipment to your final destination in Africa, Asia, or Europe. We handle the specific “Transit” documentation to prevent you from paying unnecessary import duties in the UAE.

Support, Disputes & Contact

We are here to help when things go right, and especially when they go wrong.

General Support

How do I contact customer support?

You can reach our support team via:

  • Email: info@marhabaagro.com (General inquiries)
  • Live Chat: Available on our website during UAE business hours (Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 6 PM).
  • Phone: Our main office line listed on the “Contact Us” page.
    Paid members have access to priority support channels for faster response times.
What if I forget my password?

Click the “Forgot Password” link on the login page. You will receive an email with instructions to reset your password securely.

Dispute Resolution

What happens if the goods I receive don't match the description?

We urge all buyers to request a pre-shipment inspection (by agencies like SGS or Bureau Veritas) for high-value orders. However, if a dispute arises, you must notify us immediately (within 24-48 hours of arrival). We will freeze any pending commission payments and facilitate a mediation process based on the evidence (photos, inspection reports). While we facilitate resolution, the final liability rests with the supplier as per the sales contract.

What if a buyer backs out of a deal?

If a buyer cancels after a contract is signed and a deposit is paid, the deposit is typically forfeited to the supplier to cover losses, subject to the terms of the specific contract. We will investigate the reason for cancellation. Frequent cancellations without cause will lead to a user being banned from the platform to protect our community.

How do I report suspicious activity?

If you receive a message that seems fraudulent, or if a user asks you to take the conversation/payment off-platform to avoid fees, please report it immediately using the “Report User” button on their profile or by emailing our compliance team. We have a zero-tolerance policy for fraud and circumvention.

Still have questions?

If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to discuss your specific trading needs.