The UAE is one of the leading destinations for car shipments, whether for commercial purposes, re-export, or personal use. Although the UAE is known for its relatively low car prices and fuel costs compared to other countries, many residents prefer to import their personal vehicles from their home countries when residing in the UAE, or they may seek cars with specific features. Importing cars into the UAE is a smooth and straightforward process, provided that certain conditions and procedures are followed, and the necessary documents are submitted to ensure a seamless experience.

What are the Requirements for Importing Cars to the UAE?

• The importer must have a valid residency in the UAE.
• The vehicle’s plate must be de-registered within the UAE.
• The importer must present proof of ownership or a clearance certificate for the vehicle.
• Cars that have suffered severe damage, been totaled, or have been submerged in water may be cleared but will not be registered in the UAE without the approval of the Roads
  and Transport Authority (RTA).
• Damaged or irreparable vehicles may be sold as spare parts as they will not be registered in the UAE.
• The car must not be stolen, and its chassis number must not have been tampered with to avoid any suspicions or risks in the import and registration process.
• The vehicle must meet the UAE’s standards and specifications. If the car’s specifications are non-GCC, the RTA in Dubai or any other traffic office in the UAE must be consulted to determine if the vehicle can be registered.
• Payment of customs duties (5%) and VAT (5%), along with a 1% insurance and shipping cost fee.
• Individuals can import cars for personal use as long as they have a valid residency in the UAE.

Required Documents for Importing a Car to the UAE

• The original invoice proving ownership and value of the car.
• Customs export declaration from the country of origin, detailing the car's model, color, year of manufacture, chassis number, engine number, and whether it meets GCC specifications.
• Bill of lading for tracking the shipment.
• Personal documents of the importer, including the original and copy of the passport, visa, and driver's license.
• A commercial license for import companies, along with the company's import code.

Steps to Import Cars to the UAE

When importing a car into the UAE, it will arrive at one of the main ports, such as Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, Zayed Port in Abu Dhabi, or Khalid Port in Sharjah. The vehicle will then undergo customs clearance at the entry points via a customs broker, and the authorities will inspect the car to ensure it meets the entry requirements.

The importer must pay customs clearance fees, which amount to 5% of the car’s value in the UAE. Fees and taxes vary based on the value and type of the vehicle, including customs duties and VAT. These fees must be paid before the vehicle is released, along with container inspection fees. Once the customs duties are paid, the importer will receive blue plates for temporary use or a customs card without plates for registration or re-export.

Next, the vehicle must undergo inspection at an authorized testing center (RTA). The following documents are required for the inspection: a passport, Emirates ID, driving license, customs clearance papers, and the customs card (VCC). The RTA will inspect the vehicle to ensure it is safe and roadworthy. After completing these steps, the vehicle can be registered and insured.