1. Should You Import a Car into Dubai?
Dubai offers a strong automotive market, well-developed infrastructure, and relatively low fuel costs—making vehicle imports attractive. Whether you're relocating or sourcing a vehicle abroad, you’ll benefit from options like air freight or sea freight via container or RoRo, depending on urgency and value.
Classic and luxury car collectors also frequently use Dubai as a staging ground for regional exports. If your case fits this, we recommend you also read our guide on classic car shipping from Dubai.
2. Key Requirements Before Import
- You must hold a valid UAE residence visa
- Left-hand drive cars only are allowed (with few exceptions)
- Vehicle must not be more than 10 years old, unless you have classic certification
- RTA permit required for old, modified, or non-GCC-spec vehicles
If you're unsure about vehicle condition, pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended before arranging transport.
3. Dubai Car Customs Clearance Process
This is the most important step of the entire import chain. Customs clearance in Dubai is handled primarily at Jebel Ali Port or DWC/DXB airports, depending on how the car arrives.
Documentation You’ll Need:
- Original invoice / purchase proof
- Certificate of origin
- Export certificate from source country
- Valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- Passport copy
- Valid UAE driving licence
- Bill of lading (sea) or airway bill (air)
- Carnet de Passage (optional for re-export)
You’ll need to pay:
- 5% customs duty (on CIF value—Cost + Insurance + Freight)
- 5% VAT (on CIF + duty)
- Admin and clearance fees
- Port handling and port fees
- Delivery order from shipping line
- Container unloading
- Container transport
- VCC charges
- Gate pass (if applicable)
4. What is a VCC and Why You Need It
After submitting your documents and settling your fees, Dubai Customs will issue a Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC)—which confirms legal entry into the country. You must have this certificate to proceed to RTA inspection and registration.
We usually facilitate this step as part of our end-to-end car shipping and customs clearance service.
5. Technical Inspection – RTA Testing
Once you have your VCC, the next step is getting the vehicle tested at an RTA-approved center (such as Tasjeel, Shamil, etc.).
Inspection covers:
- Brake and light testing
- Emission compliance
- VIN/chassis check
- Physical condition of tires, windshield, horn, etc.
Once the test is cleared, you're eligible for registration.
6. Final Step: Registration and Number Plate
Documents Required:
- Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC)
- UAE Insurance Certificate
- Passport, Emirates ID, UAE Driving Licence
- Technical inspection pass certificate
At the RTA counter, you will:
- Pay registration and plate fees
- Choose your number plate type
- Receive mulkiya (vehicle registration card) and permanent Dubai number plate
We offer doorstep service where we complete these steps for you—including test, plate pickup, and final delivery.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shipping a right-hand drive vehicle (prohibited)
- Underreporting invoice value (Customs may reassess market value)
- Missing VAT or duty payments (delays clearance)
- Not checking vehicle age and RTA eligibility
- Assuming GCC-compliance when importing from the US, UK, or Japan
If your destination is outside the UAE, like Saudi Arabia or Europe, you may need to handle different sets of compliance and re-export clearance. We also handle that under our coverage network.
8. Should You Use a Freight Agent?
Yes—unless you're already experienced with UAE import law, it's strongly advised to use a registered agent. Freight My Car handles every step from customs paperwork to inspection bookings, rework handling (if required), and delivery to your door or showroom.
We support both individuals and businesses, and offer bundled quotes which you can request here.
9. Cost Overview
| Expense Category | Approx. Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Customs Duty (5%) | Depends on vehicle value |
| VAT (5%) | On CIF + Duty |
| Import charges | Approx. AED 4000 |
| Technical inspection | 120–450 |
| Insurance (if arranged) | Optional – varies |
| RTA Registration & plate | 400–1,000+ |
You can calculate estimates using our cost estimator tool.
Final Thoughts
Dubai car customs clearance isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to detail. With the right paperwork, professional guidance, and proper inspections, your imported vehicle can be on the road within a few days after arrival.
We specialize in Dubai-based car imports through Jebel Ali, DXB, and DWC terminals—by air, sea, and land. If you need help shipping your vehicle from Europe, the USA, or Asia, or want door-to-door assistance, let’s talk.