How to Import a Car from the USA to Dubai?

Importing a car from the USA to Dubai? You are certainly not alone. Many people import their vehicles from the USA, having discovered fantastic bargains or certain super-rare models that are unavailable locally. If it is your first time, you might find the process a bit overwhelming. So, just relax!

 Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can easily import your dream car to Dubai and start cruising in style.

If this is your first time importing a car, it might feel a bit confusing. But don’t worry! We’re here to help with an easy step-by-step guide on how to bring your dream car to Dubai so you can drive around in style. You can start the process for about $1,095, and your car will usually get to you in about 20 to 35 days.

Why Ship a Car from the USA to Dubai?

One very good reason for exporting a car from the USA to Dubai is that the US offers diversity in available vehicles, unique models, and better prices that cannot be found so easily in Dubai. If you have always wanted a rare vehicle, then importing it often is the easiest way to obtain it.

Many of the American cars have been manufactured with the standards of the US roads in mind, so you may enjoy a more comfortable ride for your needs. In addition, after the shipping of your vehicle to Dubai, you can freely roam around the city as you please. Your car will allow you to enjoy your favorite one while exploring the city at your discretion!

Read More about How to import a Car from the USA to Dubai.

Research and Choose the Right Car

First of all, you need to make sure your car meets Dubai’s local regulations. Not every car can be imported, so here are a few important things to keep in mind: Your vehicle must pass the UAE’s road safety standards to ensure it’s safe to drive. This is crucial for keeping you and others safe on the roads.

That is to say, it has to be safe enough to hit the highways of Dubai. Furthermore, it has to be a left-hand drive vehicle and cannot enter the UAE as right-hand-drive cars are not accepted. Lastly, the car shall not be more than 10 years old from the date of manufacture. By following these requirements, you’ll prevent any hassle arising and make importing even easier for yourself.

Understand the Costs Involved

When you import a car, the price you pay to buy it is just the beginning. There are some extra costs to think about, so let’s break them down in simple terms:

1.    Shipping costs

That’s when it all begins. The price paid to buy the car is just the starting point. Now, of course, there are more costs involved, and we will break them down in simple words:

2.    Shipping Fees

First off, shipping costs apply. It is the amount that you will pay for getting the car from the USA to Dubai. It varies depending upon how you decide to send it over—be it through Ro-Ro (where your car is driven onto a ship) or put it in a container. It can run several hundred dollars, so shop around and get quotes from shipping companies so you find the best price.

3.    Customs Duty

Once your car reaches Dubai, you will be called upon to pay customs duty. It is a kind of tax, normally 5% of the value of your car. It is what the government charges on imported items. Ensure you put it in your budget since it will cost depending on how much your car is worth.

4.    VAT

What follows is VAT or Value Added Tax. It is added on to your purchase as an additional 5% above that cost, being the price of the vehicle plus shipping costs going to help finance public services in the UAE. Don’t forget this number when tallying up your costs altogether.

5.    Registration Fees

Lastly, once your car has gone through customs, you will register it with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority. The registration fee would depend on your type of car, among other things. You should contact the RTA to confirm exactly how much you would have to pay. This step is generally aimed at ensuring that your car complies with the laws governing road use in Dubai.

Learn more About Cost Involved

Arrange Shipping for Your Car

When you’re ready to ship your car to Dubai, you have two main choices. Let’s go over them in simple, everyday language:

1.    Ro-Ro (Roll-on, Roll-off)

The first option is Ro-Ro, which stands for Roll-on, Roll-off. It is usually the cheaper way to get your car to Dubai. You drive your car onto the ship, and when it arrives, it gets driven off. It’s pretty simple! Many people choose this method because it saves money. Just remember that your car will be parked next to other cars on the ship, so while it’s safe, it might not have the same level of protection as the other option.

2.    Container Shipping

If you want to make sure your car stays extra safe during the trip, consider container shipping. With this method, your car is placed inside a shipping container, which protects it from the weather and any bumps from other vehicles. This option costs more than Ro-Ro, but if you have a valuable or classic car, it can be worth the extra money. You won’t have to worry about scratches or damage while it’s on the way.

3.    Finding a Reliable Shipping Company

Once you’ve picked a shipping method, the next step is to find a good shipping company that knows how to handle cars going to Dubai. They’ll help you with all the paperwork and let you know what you need to do before shipping. Make sure to ask them about any documents you’ll need, like proof of ownership and insurance. Having a trustworthy shipping partner can make the whole process easier!

Help Full Link for Arrange Shipping for Your Car

Prepare the Required Documents

You’ll need to gather these documents before you start:

1.    Purchase Invoice

It is your proof of purchase. It shows that you bought the car and helps establish that it’s yours.

2.    Title of the Car

This document officially proves your ownership of the vehicle. You will be required to complete the importing process for this.

3.    Export Certificate from the USA

It is an important document that one will need at customs. It proves that the car is leaving the USA legally.

4.    Customs Clearance Certificate

It is a certificate that comes in handy once your vehicle reaches Dubai because you can register your vehicle in the UAE.

5.    Shipping Documents from the Shipping Company

These documents provide important details about your car’s journey and the shipping process. By having all these documents organized, you’ll make the whole process of importing your car to Dubai much easier and stress-free!

Read More about the Required Documents for Importing a car.

Clear Customs in Dubai

Once your car arrives in Dubai, it will go through customs. You’ll need to:

1.    Submit Your Documents

Take your documents to the Dubai Customs Department and submit all your documents that relate to the purchase. These should include:

• Your Bill of Sale to Prove the Purchase

• The Title of the Car Showing It Is Yours

• The Export Certificate from the USA proving it is leaving the country

• Shipping documents from your shipping company

2.    Pay the Customs Duty

You will have to pay the customs duty when you actually submit your documents. That is around 5% of the value of the car, so be prepared for that.

3.    Get Your Customs Clearance Certificate

Once the customs duty is paid, you will get a Customs Clearance Certificate. It’s an important document that will allow you to register your car in Dubai officially. By following these steps, you’re well on your way to enjoying your new car on the vibrant roads of Dubai!

Get Your Car Registered

After successfully clearing customs, your next step is to register your car with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This registration is essential for making your vehicle officially street-legal in Dubai.

Here’s what you need to prepare for this process:

1.    Valid Insurance Policy

It’s another requirement before you can register your car. Getting insurance not only protects you and your vehicle but also covers it as a legal requirement in Dubai.

2.    Emirates ID and Proof of Residence

These are to prove one’s identity and to let whoever is checking to know whether you have been in Dubai long enough to fit the entries and be clean.

3.    Vehicle Inspection

Lastly, your car has to be inspected to prove that it qualifies according to the road requirements of safety. This check-up will cover everything from brakes to lights to ascertain if your vehicle is roadworthy enough to zip you around the busy streets of Dubai. In all these ways, coming together and finalizing the registration process will push you another step closer to getting around Dubai with your brand-new ride, riding free and open!

Learn More About Your Car Registered

Note: Before you start driving your newly imported car in Dubai, it’s essential to ensure that your driving license is properly recognized by the local authorities. “Q Links Translation Company” provides Driving License Translation in Dubai, offering a seamless service to translate your existing license into Arabic or English as required by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

This translation ensures that your driving credentials comply with all the rules and regulations of Dubai RTA, allowing you to drive legally and confidently without facing any issues on the road. Utilizing “Q Links” expertise not only simplifies the process but also helps you avoid potential legal complications, making your transition to driving in Dubai smooth and hassle-free.

Drive Your Car in Dubai

Congratulations! You have completed the entire process and imported your car from the USA. Well, now that your number plates and insurance are in place, you can get on the road! Enjoy driving in your new car along the colorful streets of Dubai. Whether it is exploring that breathtaking skyline of the city or cruising along the coast, now you may enjoy all the thrills Dubai has in store for you from right behind your vehicle’s wheel. Safe travels and enjoy every moment on the road!