Got a car you can’t imagine leaving behind? 

Whether it’s your trusted daily ride, the family SUV, or a prized classic you’ve always dreamed of owning, parting ways isn’t easy. The good news is you don’t have to. Shipping your car to or from Dubai is often more straightforward and more cost-effective than you might think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing your vehicle to its safe arrival, so you know exactly what to expect.

Before diving into paperwork and logistics, it’s important to set realistic expectations about timing and the type of transport you’ll choose. Both can affect your experience and budget.

Expect Extra Time for Delivery

Car transport isn’t an instant process. Depending on the route and destination, delivery can take several weeks, with international shipments often requiring six to eight weeks. While your vehicle may arrive sooner, shipping companies typically allow extra time in case unexpected delays occur along the way.

Open vs. Enclosed Shipping

When figuring out how to ship a car, one of the first choices you’ll face is whether to go with an open carrier or an enclosed trailer. Open carriers are the cheaper option, but your car will be exposed to the weather and road debris along the way. Enclosed transport costs more, often around 60% higher, but it keeps your vehicle protected inside a covered trailer. This makes it the preferred choice for luxury, classic, or high-value cars.

How to Ship a Car from Dubai: A 6-Step Process

Shipping your car from Dubai abroad isn’t as complicated as it might seem, especially if you’re prepared. Having your documents in order from the start saves time and prevents unnecessary delays. At minimum, you’ll need a valid passport and a UAE visa to begin the process.

Once you’ve gathered your paperwork, visit any Road Transport Authority (RTA) branch, such as Umm Ramool, Al Qusais, Bur Dubai, or Al Barsha, to start the formalities. From there, follow these six steps:

1. Remove Existing Number Plates

Take off both number plates before entering the RTA office, and keep them with you, as they will be needed during the process.

2. Obtain Export Insurance

Purchase an Export Insurance Certificate (around AED 70). This provides 14 days of coverage, within which the vehicle must be shipped.

3. Complete Vehicle De-registration

Submit the following documents:

• Export Insurance Certificate

• Vehicle registration card

• Driving license

• Number plates

• Mortgage release letter (if applicable)

4. Payment and Export Certificate Issuance

After submitting the necessary paperwork, pay AED 90 to receive the Export Certificate, which authorises you to export the vehicle.

5. Collect the Export Plates

After receiving your Export Certificate, proceed to the designated counter to collect the blue export plates. These plates are mandatory for vehicles that are being shipped abroad.

6. Install the Export Plates

Attach the new plates to your vehicle before leaving the RTA office. This step ensures your car is properly registered for export and ready for transport.

Key Points on Car Shipping from Dubai

• Arrange Shipping Within 14 Days

Once your documents are ready, try to book transport promptly. We can help by providing quotes from reliable car shipping companies.

• Don’t Leave Items Inside The Car

Shipping a vehicle with personal belongings inside isn’t allowed and also creates an insurance risk.

• Prepare Your Vehicle Properly

Your shipping company will usually ask you to drain most of the fuel and disconnect the battery as a fire safety measure.

• Check Customs Duties and Taxes

Import fees can be high in some countries, so make sure you understand the costs before finalising your shipment.

Car Shipping to Dubai: A 4-Step Guide

Bringing a car to Dubai isn’t as complicated as it might seem, but preparation is key. Make sure to have several copies of your passport, Emirates ID, and residence visa. It’s also helpful to keep a supply of passport-sized photos, as these documents are required for many formalities in the UAE. With these in hand, here’s how to move forward:

1. Proof of Ownership

Carry the original purchase invoice for your vehicle, also known as the Vehicle Ownership Certificate. This document confirms you are the legal owner and lists the car’s value, which is used to calculate customs duty (typically 5% of the invoice price).

2. Customs Clearance Fees

When importing a car into Dubai, keep in mind that you will need to cover customs duties estimated at AED 4,700 (USD 1,250). In addition, there is usually an inspection fee of about AED 700 for the container. These charges are standard, so it’s best to factor them into your overall budget before arranging shipment or temporary car storage in Dubai.

3. Vehicle Clearance Certificate

To release your vehicle from the port, you’ll need a Vehicle Clearance Certificate issued by the Road Transport Authority (RTA). This costs AED 60 and certifies that the car complies with UAE regulations. If you are abroad, your moving company or an appointed agent can secure this document for you, though an extra fee may apply.

4. Register with the RTA

The last step is vehicle registration with the RTA. Once registered, you’ll receive UAE license plates. Drivers with licenses from approved countries can transfer them with minimal effort, while others must complete an RTA driving test and, in some cases, attend classes at an accredited driving school.

Your Trusted Partner in Car Shipping

Importing or exporting a car involves careful planning, from paperwork and customs clearance to secure transport. At Extra Space, we don’t just offer shipping; we bring a team that knows the process inside out, making sure your vehicle is protected every step of the way. 

Request a quote today and let us handle your car shipping with confidence.