The UAE's car exporting has been one of the country's traditional trade economic activities. It has reached an even higher zenith in the recent period due to a steady increase in car exports in the world. The main reason for UAE being the top player in this global market is the robust automotive market. It also offers lower cost and user-friendly shipping regulations. Knowing the complete process of export is important for all.
In this article, you will find useful and comprehensive information about the car export process in the UAE.
The UAE has developed itself into a global marketplace for vehicles of the highest quality. It ranges from luxury models to comfortable second-hand cars all at the best prices you can find. The UAE's favorable tax laws and unique geographical location make it the best location for exporting cars. Moreover, with the continuous increase in demand, the export of second-hand cars from the UAE is also increasing.
The very first and most used option is shipping cars by sea, which is also the most cost-effective method. Cars can either be carried in containers or by RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) carriers.
Dedicated Container: A container is entirely yours to use for your vehicle and personal items.
Consolidation Container: This is a shared container with different vehicles that you can use for a fee.
RO-RO Carriers: These powerful ships transport vehicles, but the condition is that the car should be able to start.
Airfreight is the best option for go-fast supercars or luxury cars. The major advantage is that they are dispatched quicker however these services are more expensive than the rest.
Exporting cars to neighboring GCC states is done through specialized vehicles like trucks. It covers Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar.
To facilitate the export process, the following documents are required:
Emirates ID and passport (original and copy) of the shipper
Passport or visa of the receiver
Vehicle registration card
Export insurance certificate
Mortgage clearance letter (if the vehicle is financed and debts are settled)
RTA export inspection test
Filing these documents on a timely basis will help you not only avoid delays but also speed up customs approval.
UAE’s advanced facilities and regulations have made it easy to export cars from the city. The following is a complete guide:
Document Preparation:
First and foremost, get all required documents, including customs clearance for verification. The absence of papers may delay the process.
Get an Export Certificate:
You must go in person to an RTA center and carry the required documentation. Your car will undergo an inspection to ensure it complies, and once the check is completed, you will be given an export certificate.
Customs Clearance:
You need to get the export certificate and all the other relevant documents, and then visit UAE Customs. You have to pay the customs fee to get the clearance for the vehicle to depart the UAE.
Choose a Shipping Method:
You can choose among the shipping options below:
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): This is a much cheaper option but the vehicle might get exposed to weather conditions.
Container Shipping: A safe and secure option mainly for fragile or luxury vehicles.
Air Freight: The terrible but fastest means.
Prepare the Vehicle for Transport:
Clean the vehicle from inside and outside, remove personal belongings, and keep a record of the condition with an inspection.
Effective Shipping Company Selection:
You need to select a shipping line that has enough experience and is knowledgeable about the UAE export rules. Besides, the company should manage logistics, and customs clearance, and provide honest pricing.
Comply with Import Procedures:
When you need the receiver to fulfill the regulations of the country concerning the vehicle, pay the import duties, and finally register the vehicle locally. However, there could be some coordination with the shipping company that can be required for a smooth process.
A car export certificate is a document that is needed to transfer the vehicle title and ship it outside the UAE. The process involves:
RTA Website: Apply electronically by filling out the application, uploading your documents, and making payments online.
Customer Happiness Centers: Visit the center in person with the required documents to submit the application and pay the required fees. Export plates can also be requested.
Vehicle Registration Centers: Centers like Tasjeel and Shamil provide export certificate services.
To export a car from the UAE, it needs to fulfill the following conditions:
Valid Registration: Expired registrations may need renewal or special clearance.
Cleared Fees: Outstanding fees must be settled before export.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): This is a must if the car is under a loan or for general clearance.
Ownership Documents: Required are proof of ownership (Mulkiya) and sales agreements for used cars.
Technical Inspection: The car must comply with safety and inspection checks.
Export Plates: Transportation may require special plates.
The vehicle must pass a technical inspection at licensed RTA centers. It demonstrates that it has met safety and environmental standards. Additional testing, such as emissions checks, may be required for exports to countries like the UK or Europe, which have strict regulations.
The procedure for sending cars to Europe requires submitting documents such as a driver's license photocopy, travel tickets (for tourists), and postal addresses. Additionally, vehicle inspection from authorized centers is compulsory.
Shipping Costs (AED) & Transit Time:
Country
Price Starting From
Transit Time (Days)
Belgium
4,600
34
France
6,200
28-37
Germany
6,330-7,600
29-39
Italy
6,200-6,900
22-37
Spain
6,200-7,300
25-35
Transmitting cars calls for approximately 6-7 days. Along with the usual documents, you must also include the manufacturer's invoice and the ocean bill of lading.
Shipping Cost: Around AED 5,100 (excluding duties and taxes).
The US has criteria that are more stringent regarding imported cars, which in turn raises the bar for vehicle compliance.
Shipping Cost: AED 9,500-26,000 (varies by port) with 2.5% duty.
Only vehicles under 10 years old can be imported into the UK. They have to pass an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test to get a driving permit.
Shipping Cost: AED 7,000-8,000 with 30% duty (depending on the model).
Always check your car's eligibility against the imposed import rules of the destination country.
Kindly ensure that all the documentation required is complete and accurate.
Work with trustworthy car exporting companies to streamline the process and stay away from delays.
Keep in mind the additional expenses, such as import duties and taxes, to fully understand the costs.
By following these tips, transferring your vehicle to another country would turn into a stress-free venture.
Exporting a car can be a hassle-free task by just coordinating and managing the shipping along with the documents. The infrastructure and regulations of the country are supportive for individuals and businesses. The shipping agents simplify the shipping process so that you can concentrate on your other priorities.
Shipping by water via a consolidation container is the most economical option.
No, you must clear the loan or mortgage before exporting.
You need the original export certificate, vehicle registration, Emirates ID, and passport/visa.
Yes, exporting via dedicated car trucks is available for GCC countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar.
Yes, it is costly and is recommended for luxury or exotic vehicles.
It takes 13 to 45 days, depending on the destination country.
Emila is a passionate real estate expert, lifestyle enthusiast, and writer dedicated to showcasing the dynamic charm of Dubai. With 6 in real estate, travel writing, Emila Hales brings insightful perspectives to readers exploring Dubai’s vibrant real estate market, luxurious lifestyle, and diverse cultural offerings. As an avid storyteller, Emila loves sharing tips on finding dream properties, uncovering hidden gems in the city, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of Dubai.
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