How to Import Cars from Japan to UAE in 2025 Complete Guide

How to Import Cars from Japan to UAE in 2025:Complete Guide

Mustafa Karim

Published: 2025-04-25

Updated: 2026-02-11

contents

5 Essential Steps to Import Japanese Cars to UAE
2025 Import Regulations Update
Tips for Finding Reliable Japanese Car Suppliers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are you interested in ordering cars from Japan or want to know how to buy a car from Japan and import it to the UAE? Japanese cars are renowned for their reliability, efficiency, and advanced technology, making them an excellent choice for buyers in the UAE. This guide simplifies the process of importing Japanese cars into the UAE and highlights essential steps and considerations for 2025.

5 Essential Steps to Import Japanese Cars to UAE

1. Verify Vehicle Compliance with UAE Standards

Before you begin the process of buying a car from Japan, it's crucial to ensure the vehicle meets UAE regulations. Key requirements include:

Compliance with Euro 6 norms (if applicable).
GCC certification for engine and emission standards.
Right-hand drive conversion (as the UAE uses left-hand driving).
The car must generally be less than five years old for import eligibility.

Ensuring compliance with these regulations will help you avoid legal and logistical issues during the Japanese cars imported into the UAE process.

2. Calculate Total Import Costs

Costs can quickly add up when ordering cars from Japan. Here's a breakdown of the typical expenses you need to consider:

FOB Price (Free on Board): AED/SAR 18,000–120,000, depending on the make and model.
Shipping Costs: AED/SAR 4,500–7,200, depending on the port of departure and arrival.
Customs Duties: A 5% charge on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) plus an additional 5% VAT.
Agency Fees: AED/SAR 2,500–4,000 for processing and handling.

Having a detailed cost breakdown will help you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.

3. Choose a Certified Exporter

When buying a car from Japan, selecting a reliable supplier is essential to ensure a smooth process and high-quality vehicles. Trusted exporters include:

Trade Car View (TCV)
BE FORWARD UAE
SBT Japan
USS Auto Auctions

These exporters are known for their expertise in shipping Japanese cars imported into the UAE. Many certified exporters also comply with UAE-Japan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) standards, which can result in reduced duties and expedited customs clearance.

4.Prepare the Necessary Documentation

Having the right paperwork ready is crucial for successfully importing a car from Japan into the UAE. Essential documents include:

Original title deed.
Bill of Lading (B/L) with shipment details.
Certificate of Conformity (to prove compliance with UAE standards).
Commercial invoice indicating the purchase details.
Proof of insurance for the vehicle.

Proper documentation ensures a seamless customs process and reduces delays when your vehicle arrives in the UAE.

5. Finalize Customs Clearance

Once your car from Japan lands in the UAE, it must go through customs clearance. Key steps include:

Physical inspection (required for approximately 95% of imported vehicles).
Verification of GPS tracking for hybrid or electric models.
Customs clearance process typically takes 3–7 working days.

Make sure to stay updated on the status of your vehicle to avoid unnecessary delays.

2025 Import Regulations Update

Stricter Emission Testing

Starting in 2025, imported vehicles must meet enhanced emission standards, including:

Particulate matter (PM) levels under 4.5 mgUAE MG KSA MG Oman MG Qatar MG Bahrain MG Egypt MG Kuwait MG/km.
Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions not exceeding 0.08 g/km.
On-board diagnostics (OBD) systems must comply with GCC standards.

These measures aim to reduce environmental impact and ensure cleaner air quality.

Revised Luxury Vehicle Tax

If you're considering importing a luxury car from Japan, be aware of the updated tax structure for 2025:

A 25% surcharge for vehicles priced over AED/SAR 300,000.
A 15% tax for engines with a capacity above 3.0 liters.
A 10% tax rebate for hybrid vehicles to encourage eco-friendly choices.

These changes could influence your decision when buying a car from Japan.

Tips for Finding Reliable Japanese Car Suppliers

Understand the Auction Grading System

Japan’s robust auction system assigns grades to vehicle conditions, giving you a clear picture of what to expect:

Grade	Description	Price Impact
4.5	Showroom quality	+35% premium
3.5	Minor wear and tear	Market rate
2.0	Requires notable repairs	-20% discount

Familiarizing yourself with this grading system can help you select the right car at a fair price.

Benefits of FTA Compliance

The UAE-Japan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) offers multiple benefits for importing Japanese cars:

Customs processing up to 30% faster.
Potential 2% reduction in customs duties for certified exporters.
Priority lanes at major UAE ports like Khalifa Port.

Partnering with FTA-compliant exporters can simplify the process and reduce costs when ordering cars from Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I handle import taxes and customs clearance?

Navigating import duties is a top concern. When you import a car, expect a standard 5% duty along with an additional 5% VAT on the total cost of the vehicle. Customs clearance requires you to submit a detailed set of documents including the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and certificate of conformity. Make sure you follow the step-by-step process to ensure a smooth clearance experience. Staying informed about local GCC regulations will help you better manage these costs and avoid any setbacks during the import process.

Can I import a modified or customized vehicle?

Modifications can complicate the import process and might require additional certifications like TÜV for engine swaps and strict checks for any body or suspension alterations. The UAE has clear guidelines regarding allowable modifications, so keeping changes minimal or well-documented is advisable. Often, modifications that deviate significantly from original specifications might trigger extra inspections or delays. Verify with your supplier and local authorities before finalizing your purchase.

What shipping durations should I expect?

Shipping durations can vary based on the departure and arrival ports. Typically, vehicles shipped from Osaka to Dubai might take 18-22 days, while routes from Tokyo to Abu Dhabi could require 21-25 days. For shipments coming in from Yokohama to Sharjah, you might expect between 23-28 days. Planning ahead and selecting reliable shipping partners can ensure you are well-prepared for any potential delays in your import process.

Are there any limits on personal vehicle imports?

If you're considering importing a vehicle for personal use, there are certain limitations in place in the UAE. Most guidelines allow for a maximum of two vehicles per individual per year, and the vehicle must be registered under your name. Additionally, these imported vehicles are typically not intended for immediate resale, which aligns with local policies aimed at curbing commercial circumvention. Understanding these limits will help you avoid regulatory complications.

This article is for reference only; please refer to the latest local laws and regulations.

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Mustafa Karim

Chief editor information:

Mustafa Karim, having been deeply involved in automotive research and development for over ten years. He is fond of Japanese cars, and their precise and energy-efficient features have influenced him. In his spare time, he loves Japanese anime and kendo, drawing inspiration from them for control system research and development. He also often shares cutting-edge automotive knowledge on platforms, contributing to industry innovation and adding strength to automotive development with his expertise.