Import Car from USA to UAE

Here’s a rough breakdown of the process you’ll need to go through to import your vehicle to UAE.

More information on the process of importing a vehicle to UAE can be found here.

As you engage in the vehicle import process, some of the most important questions to consider include:

These questions and more will determine whether your car is eligible for import to UAE. You’ll need a valid residence permit for the UAE to import a car into UAE. Also, unless you obtain a commercial register for car sales and imports you’ll be limited to one vehicle import per year. You should never assume your scenario is the same as someone else’s. Our import agents can assist you every step of the way – we’re always just a phone call away.

To obtain an estimate of the cost to import a car to UAE, fill out our free quick quote form.

Upon arrival of your vehicle import to UAE, the vehicle must be declared in Customs. You’ll need the following documentation:

Foreign private motor vehicles (other than those registered in any of the GCC States) can be granted temporary admission license as follows:

Taxes & Duties for UAE Car Imports

Car Imports to UAE pay 5% Customs duties. (Value of the vehicle + 1% insurance + cost of shipment).

Car Imports from USA to UAE can be performed using a shared container, a sole container or a roll-on/roll-off service.

Roll-On/Roll-Off – Our most cost-efficient option! The only added fees are port and customs clearance charges.

Best for vehicles in working condition – your car will be driven onto a large cargo area on the shipping vessel and secured for transport.

Shared Container Service – Several vehicles are shipped together in one 40ft. container. Although there are more fees involved than with our roll-on/roll-off service, these are divided between the multiple vehicle owners using the container. A terminal handling charge, trucking and unloading charges, as well as custom clearance fees are included in the additional fees.

*There might be a longer wait before your vehicle ships out, since we have to wait until there are enough vehicles to fill up the container. However, you have the added benefit and security of a fully enclosed container.

Full Container Load – Like our shared container service, you have the safety of an enclosed 20ft container, yet it is dedicated to a single vehicle. Since we don’t have to wait for other cars to ship, you’ll enjoy the advantage of a shorter wait between departure and arrival. However, you’ll end up paying more in fees.

Fully enclosed containers offer a high level of safety, since vehicles aren’t exposed to the elements. When we receive your vehicle, we’ll document the car’s condition and loading process with photos. All cars are loaded using our environmentally friendly steel loading system, instead of outdated wood ramps used by other companies. This modern system not only reduces the environmental impact of shipping but adds security against damage to your vehicle.

Once loaded, we’ll ensure the container door is locked and secured. This will safeguard against anyone gaining access to the vehicle before it reaches its final destination.

Upon entrance to the UAE, our agent will access the container and photograph the unloading process, as well as document the vehicle’s condition. Due to the vehicle being in a fully enclosed and secure container throughout the import process, clients may pack and transport other items inside the car. Though, all items must be loaded securely, as we will not be responsible for loss or damage of any kind.

Compared to our roll-on/roll-off service, container shipping is a faster method thanks to our frequent weekly departures.

Sourcing Vehicles – With over twenty years’ experience in the car import business, we have an extensive network of car buyers and are ready to assist overseas clients purchasing vehicles, for a nominal fee.

Other Services – Some of the auto transport services we offer in overseas territories include domestic pickup, vehicle import assistance, tracking of your shipment, customs clearance in the USA and a full vehicle inspection report.

Before importing your vehicle to UAE, the undercarriage must be cleaned and free of foreign soil to prevent the introduction of invasive plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms. This can be accomplished through steam cleaning or other thorough cleaning methods. CFR Rinkens can assist with finding an appropriate cleaner to help ensure you comply with this requirement.

We do not recommend washing the interior of the vehicle as it can cause mold during transport. Vacuuming the interior is usually more than sufficient.

Vehicles imported to UAE must be registered to operate on UAE roads. UAE Customs will provide a Vehicle Clearance Certificate (V.C.C.) for the vehicle upon clearing the Customs Import Bill of Entry. This certificate is a mandatory requirement for registration. The V.C.C. should be submitted to UAE Police – Traffic Department for registration. Once registered, you’ll receive a license plate and certificate of registration.

You can request the Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC) here.

 Importing a Car from the US to UAE
Importing a Car from UAE to the US
Car Shipping from the US to UAE
Car Shipping from UAE to the US
Cargo Shipping from the US to UAE
Cargo Shipping from UAE to the US
Moving Household Goods from the US to UAE
Moving Household Goods from UAE to the US

This information was updated in January 2020. All information, time frames, pricing, and regulations are subject to change. Please contact a sales representative for the most current rates and information.

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