If you are an expat or traveler in Dubai planning to buy a car but worried that your stay in the city will soon come to an end, worry no more. You can actually export cars Dubai to any nation of your choice with a few steps which will be discussed in this article. Pay attention!
Dubai has a huge selection of luxury cars with unbeatable prices and the kind of variety that feels like walking into a dream garage. It’s no surprise that the city has now been labeled a hub for car exports. Exporting cars from Dubai can be smooth and hasslefree—if you know what you’re doing. Otherwise, it can quickly turn into a paperwork nightmare, with unexpected costs and legal hiccups that leave you regretting the whole thing. Here’s everything you should keep in mind before getting that engine roaring across borders.
1. Understand the Basics of the Export Process
Before you begin this mission, make sure that you are well grounded on the entire process. The steps are straightforward, but each one matters. Let’s take a look at the basics;
- De-registration of the vehicle from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- Obtaining an export certificate
- Paying export and shipping fees
- Clearing customs in both Dubai and the destination country
It sounds simple, but these steps involve a lot of coordination. And no, it’s not the kind of thing you want to figure out on the fly.
2. Know Your Destination Country’s Rules
Here’s a common mistake: people assume their destination country will welcome any Dubai car with open arms. Not true. Some countries have strict regulations on left-hand vs. right-hand driving, emissions, safety features, and even the age of imported vehicles.
For example, if you’re exporting to a country like Kenya, there’s usually an age limit (say, 7 years) on imported cars. Exporting to the UK? Better make sure the car’s speedometer is in miles, not kilometers.
Do your research or consult an expert in international vehicle import laws before you commit to anything.
3. Shipping Isn’t Cheap—But It Can Be Worth It
Let’s talk about money. On top of the car’s price, you’ll be dealing with:
- Export charges
- Freight costs (either container or RORO shipping)
- Insurance
- Customs clearance fees
- Destination taxes and import duties
RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) is generally cheaper than container shipping, but containers offer more protection—something to consider if you’re exporting a luxury or vintage car. Think of it like choosing between economy and business class for your prized ride.
4. Watch Out for Paperwork Pitfalls
Even a tiny mistake on your export certificate, shipping documents, or customs form can delay your car by weeks. Make sure the vehicle’s VIN, registration number, and personal identification details match across all paperwork. Double check everything before submission. If you’re using a shipping agent or dealer, keep communication clear and written.
Pro tip? Always ask for scanned copies of documents before the original ones are sent.
5. Avoid Common Rookie Mistakes
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of shipping your dream car—or making a big profit flipping vehicles. But some common mistakes include:
- Ignoring pre-shipment inspections
- Failing to clear financial dues (like bank loans or fines)
- Not checking if parts are easily available in the destination country
- Assuming your car’s warranty is valid internationally (it’s usually not)
Also, don’t forget to get the car properly inspected before you ship it. Just because it’s shiny and new-looking doesn’t mean it doesn’t have engine or transmission issues hiding beneath the hood.
6. Choosing the Right Partner
Honestly, this one’s big. The people you work with—whether it’s the dealer, logistics company, or customs clearing agent—can make or break your experience. There are plenty of reliable platforms, like OneClickDrive, where you can find numerous car listings and helpful resources to simplify the process.
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid cutting corners when choosing partners—especially when it comes to shipping and legal documentation.
7. Plan for Delays (Because They Happen)
This isn’t the kind of process you should rush. Expect delays. Whether it’s a late vessel departure, holdups at customs, or port congestion, you’ll need patience. Prepare yourself mentally and financially for the possibility of waiting longer than planned. It’ll save you stress later.
Final Thoughts
Exporting cars from Dubai can be an exciting and rewarding journey, whether you’re buying a used honda civic for sale Dubai for personal use or looking to make a smart investment. But it’s not just about finding the right car—it’s about playing the long game smartly. Understand the rules, handle your paperwork like a pro, and pick partners who know their stuff.