Do you dream of settle in Dubai, but are you wondering how to organise this big move without any stress? Between the administrative formalities, sending your personal belongings and sorting out insurance, a international removals can quickly seem complicated.
Every year, thousands of expats take this step and are faced with the same questions: what type of freight service should they choose? What arrangements do they need to make in advance? How can they keep costs down without compromising the safety of their belongings?
In this article, you’ll find all the answers to Plan your move to Dubai with peace of mind. We are going to:
- draw up a checklist of essential steps,
- compare sea and air freight,
- explain the importance of the customs inventory,
- and share money-saving and sustainable tips to make the most of your budget
Ready to find out how to transform your moving to Dubai into a smooth and controlled experience? Then follow the guide!
Checklist before setting off for Dubai
Here’s what you need to Things to check before setting off for Dubai.
1. Visas and permits
Let’s talk about visas and Permits required before moving to Dubai :
- You must obtain a residence visa if you plan to live and work in Dubai.
- This visa is often sponsored by an employer, but it can also be done through a company you own or a family member who is already a resident.
- Before you set off, do also check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival.
- Once you’re there, you’ll need to undergo a compulsory medical examination to finalise your stay.
2. Temporary accommodation in Dubai
Temporary accommodation is a key step before settling down permanently. Many new arrivals choose a hotel or serviced apartment for the first few weeks.
Short-term furnished lettings are very popular, especially in neighbourhoods such as Dubai Marina, Downtown or Jumeirah. This allows you to take your time looking for a permanent place to live without any stress.
Remember to check that the price does indeed include water, electricity and internet, to avoid any surprises.
3. Health and mobility insurance
That’s a very good point, because health and mobility are essential as soon as you arrive in Dubai:
Health insurance is compulsory for all residents, and without it the visa cannot be validated. Often, the employer provides health insurance, However, you can also take out private insurance tailored to your needs. Make sure your policy covers doctors, hospitals, medicines and emergencies.
When it comes to getting around, many people opt for a taxi or Uber first, as they are convenient and affordable. Short-term car hire is also common whilst waiting to obtain a local driving licence or to buy a car.
Essential customs formalities for moving to Dubai
Let’s take a look now the mandatory procedures at UAE customs !
1. Mandatory customs inventory
The customs inventory is an essential step when moving your belongings to Dubai. You must provide a detailed list of all your personal effects being sent by freight. Each item must be clearly described, including the quantity and estimated value.
New items may be subject to tax, so it is best to specify whether they are second-hand. Prohibited items (drugs, alcohol, e-cigarettes, sensitive religious items) must under no circumstances be included.
The inventory must be typed on a computer, signed and translated into English.
2. Tax returns and assessments
Tax returns are a necessary step at customs. Personal effects and second-hand furniture are generally exempt from customs duties.
New items or items in large quantities may be subject to a VAT at 5 %. Certain specific goods (tobacco, alcohol, bulky electronic equipment) are subject to additional customs duties. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, you should provide a realistic estimate of the value of your goods.
Dubai Customs require clear documents, translated into English, in order to validate the tax-free allowance or calculate taxes.
Moving to Dubai: Sea freight v air freight
Let’s now compare the two modes of transport for your move (by sea or air)!
1. Estimated duration
Let’s talk about the duration of sea and air freight if you’re moving to Dubai:
- Maritime freight is the most commonly used method for large volumes. The journey takes an average of 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the port of departure.
- Air freight is much quicker, making it ideal for urgent deliveries. Allow around 3 to 10 days, sometimes less, depending on the courier company.
In summary: sea freight = slow but economical; air freight = fast but expensive.
2. Estimated cost (volume, distance, weight)
Freight costs depends on several factors:
- By sea freight, the cost is mainly based on volume (in cubic metres). On average, expect to pay between €1,500 and €4,000 for a 20-foot container (around 6 metres).
- By air freight, it’s the weight and volume that matter. Prices range from €5 to €10 per kilo, depending on the carrier and the speed of delivery.
- Distance and route Other factors also come into play: a flight from Europe to Dubai is cheaper than one from America or Asia.
Don’t forget to add port charges, handling and insurance, which are often overlooked but essential to the final calculation.
3. Level of security and reliability
The safety of your belongings is essential!
Sea freight is reliable, but containers may be subject to delays, multiple handling and temperature fluctuations. Air freight is more secure: fewer handling operations, faster transit times and detailed tracking of parcels.
Shipping and airline companies provide security seals and online tracking to enhance security. However, in both cases, it is advisable to take out transport insurance covering loss, theft or damage.
Recommended international removal companies for moving to Dubai
International removal companies make settling in Dubai a great deal easier.
Well-known actors such as AGS, Crown Relocations, Santa Fe Relocation or Allied Pickfords offer a comprehensive, turnkey service. They handle the packing, sea or air freight, customs formalities and delivery right to your doorstep.
Many also offer a online tracking to find out where your goods are in real time. The choice will depend on your budget, the volume to be transported and the level of service you require.
Sustainable and cost-effective tips for moving to Dubai
Here are some Tips to make your move easier and will save you money.
1. Less-than-container load (LCL) vs full container load (FCL)
Choosing between less-than-container load (LCL) and full container load (FCL) has a significant impact on your budget:
- Groupage (LCL), your goods will be shared in the container with those of other customers. It is cheaper, but often slower and involves more handling.
- Full container load (FCL), you hire a whole container (20 or 40 feet). It’s quicker, more secure and ideal for large volumes, but more expensive.
Sustainability tip: Consolidated shipments reduce the carbon footprint, as several removals are combined into a single journey.
2. Sell or give away before you leave
Selling or giving things away before you set off helps you save money and travel light.
Selling your furniture or household appliances reduces the volume of goods being transported, and therefore the cost of freight. You can use classifieds websites or organise a garage sale.
Donate to charities or to your loved ones is also a great way to show solidarity. It means you don’t have to send heavy items, things unsuitable for the climate, or things that are unnecessary in Dubai.
Tip: Keep only personal items, those with sentimental value, or those that would be expensive to replace.
3. Temporary storage or transit
Temporary storage or transit is often useful when moving to Dubai. If your new home isn’t ready, your belongings can be stored in a secure storage facility.
Removal companies offer climate-controlled storage facilities, which are ideal for protecting your belongings from damp and heat. You can choose a flexible storage period: from a few weeks to several months.
In the event of groupage freight, your goods are sometimes sent via a transit warehouse before being dispatched. This is a practical solution for avoiding delays and keeping your goods safe.
Make a successful start in Dubai today
We’ve now reached the end of this guide together.
You now know what arrangements to make before departure, how to choose between sea and air freight, why a customs declaration is essential, and what tips can help you reduce costs without compromising on the quality of service.
By following these tips, you can approach your move to Dubai with a clear plan and peace of mind. Every step, from the initial checklist to choosing a service provider, becomes simpler and more efficient.
And because moving abroad is a project that deserves reliable support, our agency Dubai Real Estate is here to support you. We’ll help you to find the perfect home and to ensure your installation goes smoothly, with confidence and without stress.
Discover our tailored services for expatriates and investors in Dubai !
