- How to Export a Car from Dubai Successfully
- Understanding Costs and Timelines
- FAQ
Ready to send your car from Dubai to a new home? This guide makes exporting your vehicle simple. We cover every step from paperwork to shipping, helping you do it right.
How to Export a Car from Dubai Successfully
Exporting a car from Dubai can open up new opportunities. Maybe you are moving to a new country, or perhaps you want to sell your car in another market. It is a big step to take. Getting it right means knowing the rules and following each step carefully. This guide will help you understand the full car export process from Dubai. It will make sure your car reaches its new destination smoothly.
3 Key Documents You'll Need
Gathering the correct papers is the first big part of exporting a car from Dubai. Missing even one piece of paper can cause big delays. Make sure you have these key export documents ready:
Original Car Title:This proves you own the car. It must clearly show your name or the company name as the owner. Make sure there are no loans or debts tied to the car. Your car title should be clean and unencumbered for a smooth export.
Customs Clearance Certificate:You need this from Dubai Customs. It shows your car is cleared to leave the country. You will complete a customs declaration form. They check if any duties or fees are outstanding on the car. Getting this certificate means your car formally leaves the UAE's record.
Export Certificate:The relevant transport authority will give you this certificate. In Dubai, this is usually the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This paper confirms your car is ready for export. It also removes the car from the local registration system.
Passport Copy and Visa (if applicable):For individuals, a copy of your valid passport and your visa is often needed. This helps confirm your identity during the Dubai car export process.
Emirates ID:Your local identification card is also a must-have for signing documents and making official requests within the UAE.
Vehicle Inspection Report:Before you export a car from Dubai, it needs a check-up. We will talk more about this soon. This report is proof your car is safe and meets specific standards.
Step-by-Step Export Process
Once you have your papers, it is time to follow the steps to export your vehicle. Each step plays an important part in the car export process.
Verify Vehicle Eligibility:Before anything else, check the rules of the country you are sending the car to. Some countries have strict rules. They might not allow cars that are too old. They might only allow certain car types or models. Also, think about left-hand drive versus right-hand drive rules. Most cars in Dubai are left-hand drive. Make sure this matches the rules in your destination country.
Get Mandatory Inspections:Your car must pass special checks to be exported. These are safety and emissions tests. Approved centers do these checks. They ensure your car is safe to drive and does not pollute too much. This is a vital part of the Dubai car export process. Make sure your car passes these tests. If it does not, you might need repairs before you can export it.
De-register Your Vehicle:After inspections, you need to cancel your car's registration in Dubai. Visit the RTA or an authorized center. You will hand in your license plates. They will then issue the export certificate. This step is key for legal export and removes your car from local road records.
Choose Shipping Method:This is a big choice. It affects the car shipping costs and how safe your car is. Here are the main shipping options:
Option | Ideal For | Average Cost (AED) / (SAR) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
Container | Single vehicles, luxury cars, or cars needing extra safety. | 8,000-12,000 / 8,100-12,200 | Your car is put inside a sealed container. This offers good protection from weather and damage. You can also put personal items inside with your car if allowed. It is usually more expensive but offers greater security. Ideal for valuable or delicate vehicles. |
RORO Ship | Multiple vehicles, larger cars, or budget-friendly options. | 5,000-7,000 / 5,100-7,100 | RORO stands for "Roll-On/Roll-Off." Your car is driven onto a large ship and secured below deck. It is like a multi-story parking garage on water. This is generally cheaper. It is a good choice if you are exporting several cars. Weather exposure is minimal. Your car must be in working order and able to drive. |
Customs Declaration and Export Clearance:Once you choose shipping, your agent or you will file the export customs declaration. Dubai Customs checks all details. They issue the final customs clearance certificate. Your car is now officially ready to leave the UAE.
Vehicle Delivery to Port:Take your car, or have it transported by your agent, to the port. Make sure it is clean and ready. Follow the port’s rules for drop-off. They will check your documents one last time. Then, your car will be loaded onto the ship.
Common Export Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make small errors when exporting a car from Dubai. These can cause delays or cost more money. Here are some common car export mistakes to watch out for:
❌ Skipping import tax research:Do not just focus on Dubai's rules. Every country has its own import duties and taxes. These can be very high. Always check these costs for your destination country before you ship. Not knowing these can lead to big surprises and added expenses later.
❌ Using unlicensed agents:Always pick a reputable shipping agent. Verify their license and check reviews. An unlicensed agent might offer lower prices but can cause problems. They might not follow correct export regulations or have proper insurance, putting your car at risk.
❌ Ignoring climate protection for sea shipping:Cars often travel long distances over the sea. Salty air and humidity can damage your car. Consider extra protection. This might mean covers or anti-rust sprays. This is especially true if your car is in a RORO shipment, where it is exposed to the elements more.
❌ Not cleaning the car:Some countries have strict rules about car cleanliness. This includes the underside. Dirty cars can carry pests or foreign soil. This can cause delays or even rejection at the destination port. A clean car avoids these issues.
❌ Leaving personal items in the car:Most shipping companies do not allow personal items inside the car during transport. Remove all your belongings. If items are found, they could be removed and you might face extra charges. Worse, your shipment could be delayed or inspected more thoroughly.
❌ Incorrect valuation:Declaring the wrong value for your car can lead to problems. It could mean higher or lower import taxes. Customs might question it, leading to delays and potential penalties. Always declare the true value of your vehicle.
Understanding Costs and Timelines
Understanding the car export costs and how long it takes is important. This helps you plan your budget and your move.
Typical Total Cost:The total cost to export a car from Dubai can vary. It usually ranges from AED 6,500-15,000 / SAR 6,600-15,200. This depends on your chosen shipping method, car size, and destination.
What Makes Up the Cost?
Shipping Fee:This is the main part. It depends on whether you use container or RORO transport.
Customs Export Duty:While rare for exporting from Dubai, always check if any local export duties apply to your specific car type.
Inspection Fees:The cost for safety and emissions checks before export.
Deregistration Fees:Small fees to cancel your car's local registration.
Agent Fees:If you use a shipping agent, they charge for their services. This covers paperwork and handling your shipment.
Marine Insurance:This is highly recommended. It protects your car against damage or loss during shipping. This usually costs 1.5% to 2% of the car's value.
Destination Country Import Duties/Taxes:This is a big one. These fees are paid when your car arrives at its final destination. Research these carefully beforehand as they can be substantial.
Destination Port Fees:Once your car arrives, there are charges for unloading, handling, and storage at the new port.
Average Shipping Duration:The time your car spends traveling depends on where it is going.
Europe:14-21 days (e.g., to Rotterdam, Netherlands or Hamburg, Germany)
Asia:10-18 days (e.g., to Mumbai, India or Shanghai, China)
Africa:25-35 days (e.g., to Lagos, Nigeria or Durban, South Africa)
North America:25-40 days (e.g., to New York, USA or Houston, USA)
Australia:30-45 days (e.g., to Sydney, Australia)
Keep in mind that these are just shipping times. Add extra days for:
Port handling in Dubai (3-7 days)
Customs clearance at the destination port (3-10 days, or more if issues arise)
Transport from the destination port to your final address.
FAQ
Q:Can I export any car type from Dubai?
A: Generally, yes, most vehicles can be exported from Dubai. However, specific regulations in your destination country are key. Some countries have age limits, like not allowing cars older than 15 years. Heavily modified cars might also need special permits. Certain hybrid or electric car models may face restrictions in some markets due to differing battery regulations or charging standards. Always double-check your destination country's import rules first.
Q:Should I use a shipping agent?
A: Using a shipping agent is highly recommended, especially if this is your first time exporting a car from Dubai. Agents simplify the complex paperwork and handle logistics. They know the export regulations and can guide you through each step. They often get better shipping rates too. While they charge a fee, their help can save you time, stress, and potential costly errors. Always verify an agent's license and check their track record or online reviews. Many first-time exporters find full-service providers to be well worth the investment.
Q:Are there banned export models?
A: There are no models permanently "banned" for export from Dubai. However, as mentioned, certain hybrid or electric cars may face restrictions in some markets. This is due to different battery regulations, safety standards, or charging infrastructure. Also, if a car model is banned for import into your destination country, then you cannot export it there. This is not a ban from Dubai's side, but from the importing country's regulations.
Q:How long does customs clearance take?
A: For Dubai export clearance, if all your documents are accurate and complete, it usually takes about 3 to 7 business days. This is the time needed at the Dubai port for processing. This doesn't include the time your car sits at the port waiting for the ship. Any missing papers or incorrect information can cause significant delays, so it's always best to be very organized and prompt with documentation.
Q:Do I need Arabic documents?
A: For exporting a car from Dubai, English certificates are widely accepted by shipping companies and destination ports around the world. Most official documents issued in the UAE, like the export certificate, usually come in both Arabic and English. However, some countries, especially those where English is not an official language, may require a professional, certified translation of your car ownership papers or other export documents into their local language. Always check with your shipping agent or the customs office in your destination country about specific language requirements.
Q:Can I track my car after it's shipped?
A: Yes, most reputable shipping companies provide a tracking number or a way to track your shipment online. This lets you see where your car is during its journey across the sea. Your shipping agent will usually provide you with these details once your car leaves the port. This offers peace of mind while your car is on its way to its new home.
Read More:
How to Open Your 2023 Tiguan Trunk from the Inside:An Escape Guide
VW Tiguan Making Strange Noises During Acceleration?
Unpacking the Volkswagen Tiguan:Your Guide to a Top Compact SUV
