Personal Vehicle & Household Goods Clearance in Dubai

The core documents typically required include your passport copy, UAE residence visa, a detailed itemised packing list, the Bill of Lading or Airway Bill, and the commercial invoice from the moving company. For duty exemption claims, additional supporting documents — such as proof of prior residency abroad or a letter from your employer — may be required. We provide a personalised document checklist once we understand the specifics of your shipment.

With complete documentation, household goods clearance typically takes two to four working days from the time we submit the declaration. Delays can occur if the shipment is selected for physical inspection, if documents are incomplete, or if restricted items are identified in the packing list. We aim to submit the declaration as soon as the goods arrive and the carrier releases the documents.

Importing a personal vehicle involves several steps: first, the vehicle must arrive at Jebel Ali under a Bill of Lading. We then prepare and submit the customs declaration, calculate the applicable duty (based on the vehicle's CIF value), and coordinate release from the port. After customs clearance, the vehicle must undergo an RTA inspection for roadworthiness and compliance with UAE road standards before it can be registered. Some modifications may be required — particularly for right-hand drive vehicles or those not meeting UAE emission standards.

Yes. Personal vehicles are subject to import duty, typically 5% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value. VAT at 5% is also applied on the duty-inclusive value. The total landed cost of a vehicle therefore includes the purchase price, shipping, insurance, customs duty, and VAT. We calculate this figure for you in advance so there are no surprises at the port.

Most standard passenger vehicles can be imported, but some vehicle types are subject to restrictions. Right-hand drive vehicles require conversion for UAE road use. Vehicles that do not meet UAE emission or safety standards may require modification before RTA registration. Salvage vehicles, heavily modified vehicles, or vehicles with outstanding finance in the country of origin may face additional scrutiny. We advise on your specific vehicle before departure to identify any potential issues.

Certain items are prohibited or restricted under UAE customs regulations regardless of whether they are personal effects. These include narcotics, weapons and ammunition (without specific permits), counterfeit goods, certain food items without appropriate certification, and material that contravenes UAE cultural or legal standards. Some items that are legal in other countries — such as certain medications — may require a prescription or permit in the UAE. We flag any concerns when reviewing your packing list.

Individuals importing personal household goods under a valid UAE residence visa typically do not need a business import code. The declaration can be filed under your personal Emirates ID or passport details. However, if you are importing goods for commercial purposes — even partially — a business import code is required. We clarify this distinction when assessing your shipment.

Physical inspections are conducted by Dubai Customs officers at the terminal. If your shipment is selected, we coordinate the inspection appointment and prepare all supporting documentation. You do not need to be present unless specifically requested. If any items are found to differ from the packing list, or if restricted goods are identified, we advise you on the next steps and liaise with Customs on your behalf.

Yes. Once your goods are cleared and released from the port or airport, we can coordinate transportation to your home or storage facility in Dubai. This is handled through our cargo transportation service, which covers last-mile delivery for both sea and air cleared shipments. Speak to us about this when you first enquire and we will include it in your overall quote.