Export Cars from Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Dubai’s bustling automotive market is famous for its incredible variety and competitive prices. From luxury sports cars to rugged SUVs like the ever-popular Land Cruiser, it’s a global hub for car enthusiasts and buyers. If you’ve found your dream vehicle and want to ship it home, the process to export cars from Dubai might seem complex. However, with careful planning and the right information, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We will walk you through each step, from finding the right vehicle to handling the necessary paperwork and choosing a shipping method. Whether you’re a returning resident or an international buyer who found a great deal, you’ll learn how to navigate the car export process efficiently.

Why Export Cars from Dubai?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “why.” Several factors make Dubai a prime location for purchasing and exporting vehicles.

Competitive Prices: The sheer volume of cars sold in the UAE, combined with a tax-free environment for many goods, often results in highly competitive prices compared to other global markets. This makes it a cost-effective choice for many buyers.
Vast Selection: Dubai offers an unparalleled range of vehicles. You can find everything from high-end luxury models to practical, everyday cars, often in perfect condition.
High Specifications: Many vehicles sold in the region are GCC-spec, meaning they are built to withstand hot climates. They often come with powerful air conditioning systems and other premium features.

Step 1: Purchasing Your Vehicle

The first step in your journey is, of course, buying the car. You have a few main options for this. You can buy from an authorized dealer, a used car showroom, or a private seller.

When you decide to purchase a vehicle with the intent to export, be transparent with the seller. Let them know your plans, as they may be able to assist with some of the initial paperwork.

Once the sale is complete, you will need to deregister the vehicle in Dubai and acquire export plates. This is a critical step that officially marks the car for export. The seller or a local facilitator can typically help with this process at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Step 2: Gathering the Required Documentation

Proper paperwork is the backbone of a successful car export. Missing or incorrect documents can cause significant delays and extra costs. While requirements can vary depending on the destination country, here is a general list of the required documentation you’ll need to export cars from Dubai:

Export Certificate: This is obtained from the RTA after the vehicle is deregistered. It is the single most important document.
Original Invoice or Bill of Sale: Proof of purchase showing the vehicle’s value.
Passport and Visa Copy: For the individual exporting the vehicle.
Emirates ID Copy: If you are a resident of the UAE.
Destination Country Documents: Research the import requirements for your specific country. You may need proof of ownership, title documents, or other forms to legally import cars.

Careful planning at this stage is essential. Double-check every document for accuracy to ensure a smooth process.

Step 3: The Mandatory Vehicle Inspection

Before any vehicle can be exported, it must pass a vehicle inspection. This inspection is conducted by the RTA or an approved testing center like Tasjeel. The purpose is to confirm that the vehicle’s chassis and engine numbers match the registration documents and that the car is roadworthy.

This is not a mechanical check for faults, but a verification process. Once your car passes, you will receive the official certificate needed to proceed with the export. This is a non-negotiable step for any car export from Dubai.

Step 4: Choosing Your Car Shipping Method

With your paperwork in order, it’s time to choose a car shipping method. The two most common options are Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. Your choice will impact the cost, security, and timing of your shipment.

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping

The Roll on Roll off (RoRo) method is the most cost-effective way to ship a vehicle. Just as the name suggests, the car is driven directly onto a specialized vessel and secured to the deck. It is then driven off at the destination port.

Pros: Generally cheaper and faster since port handling is simpler.
Cons: Your vehicle is exposed to the elements during transit, and you cannot ship personal items inside the car.

Container Shipping

Container shipping provides more protection. Your car is loaded into a dedicated 20-foot or 40-foot container. A 40-foot container can often hold two standard-sized vehicles, which can be a cost-effective option if you are shipping multiple cars.

Pros: Offers complete protection from weather and potential transit damage. You can also load additional personal belongings into the container, although you should check the regulations.
Cons: Typically more expensive than RoRo and can involve more complex loading and unloading procedures.

The best shipping method for you will vary depending on your budget, the value of your vehicle, and your personal security preferences.

Step 5: Understanding Costs and Getting Quotes

The total cost to export cars from Dubai is made up of several components. When requesting quotes from shipping companies, make sure they provide a detailed breakdown. Key costs include:

Ocean Freight: The charge for shipping the car from Dubai (Jebel Ali Port) to the destination port. This is the largest part of the cost.
Local Charges: Fees in Dubai for port handling, documentation, and processing.
Destination Charges: Costs at the destination port for unloading, customs clearance, and port fees. These can vary significantly.
Insurance: It is highly recommended to get marine insurance to cover your vehicle against damage or loss during transit.
Customs Duties and Taxes: These are levied by the destination country and are often the most significant expense after freight. The percentage is usually based on the car’s value.

Always get multiple quotes to compare services and find competitive prices. Ensure the company you choose is transparent about all potential fees to avoid surprises.

Step 6: Customs Clearance at the Destination

Once your vehicle arrives at its destination, it must clear customs. This is where your careful planning and preparation of documents pay off. You will need to present all your paperwork to the local customs authorities to legally import cars.

The process typically involves:

Submitting the Bill of Lading (provided by the shipping company).
Presenting the original export certificate and invoice.
Paying any applicable import duties, taxes, and fees.
A possible local vehicle inspection, depending on the country’s laws.

Many people choose to hire a local customs broker at the destination port. These professionals are experts in their country’s import laws and can handle the entire clearance process on your behalf, making it much easier.

FAQ: What Is the Cheapest Way to Export a Car from Dubai?

For those looking for the most budget-friendly option, Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is generally the cheapest way to export a car from Dubai. This method has lower handling fees and is more straightforward than container shipping. However, the final cost will always vary depending on the destination, vehicle size, and the shipping company.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process and enjoy your car, no matter where you are in the world. The key is to be organized, do your research, and partner with a reliable logistics provider.Ready to ship your car from Dubai? Proper planning starts with getting an accurate quote from experts who understand the process inside and out. For a seamless and professional car shipping experience, get in touch with the team at Universal Relocations to handle all your logistics needs.