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Importing your car from Dubai to the United Kingdom

What is the process for importing a car from Dubai?

The process for importing a car from Dubai is similar to most countries but there are a few steps specific to Dubai. At My Car Import, we take care of the entire process on your behalf.

With decades of experience My Car Import has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to importing cars from Dubai and we have imported countless cars from Dubai ranging from supercars to supermini’s.

It is important to choose a car import company that can handle every step as the process is lengthy. We start by collecting your information, quoting you, and then if you decide to go ahead we give you access to a bespoke portal that will help you to understand what we need, but also what the process is.

We pride ourselves on having an established contact base in Dubai which allows us to effectively manage your import from the moment it leaves Dubai until it becomes a road-registered car here in the UK.

Read on to find out more about what happens with your car after going ahead with your quotation.

We pride ourselves on having an established contact base in Dubai which allows us to effectively manage your import from the moment it leaves Dubai until it becomes a road-registered car here in the UK.

Read on to find out more about what happens with your car after going ahead with your quotation.

What happens after you go ahead with your quote?

After you go ahead with your quote we will put you in touch with our preferred export company. In Dubai the export part of the process is important as your car will need export plates before it can be loaded.

We have carefully selected car shipping specialists operating out of Dubai to handle our client’s cars. They ensure your car is exported correctly but also that you as a customer have a contact point in Dubai that you can ask questions regarding the export of the car.

Once in touch with the agents in Dubai, they will guide you on the process of applying for export plates with the RTA and then give you guidance on where the loading warehouse is for shipping the vehicle.

If you would prefer your car was collected from you and delivered to the loading warehouse that is also something they will be able to assist with. It makes it a seamless process to export your car from Dubai.

Once your vehicle is ready for export the shipping process can begin.

Shipping

Our first priority is to ensure the security of your car in transit but also we want to get your car shipped as quickly as possible to ensure the shortest times in the industry of getting you driving again in the UK.

The other great advantage is the price as our rates are lower than even roll on roll off vessels but get to the UK in approximately 30 days rather than longer sailings for roll on roll of vessels.

Customs clearance

Our contacts in Dubai will load your car into a container prior to shipping to ensure its safety. It is insured for transit and a delivery inspection report is taken upon UK arrival. You can enjoy full peace of mind knowing that damage is covered up to the value of a total car loss.

Once your car has cleared customs and is delivered to our premises we modify the car

The car is modified and tested by ourselves for compliance in the United Kingdom.

After which all relevant testing is undertaken onsite at our privately owned IVA testing lane.

  • We modify your car at our premises
  • We test your car at our premises
  • We take care of the entire process

We then register your car for you.

Once all prerequisites are satisfied, My Car Import takes care of the car registration process. From obtaining UK registration plates to completing necessary paperwork with the DVLA, we handle the details to ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration experience for your imported car.

We then deliver or you can collect your car.

Once the car has been registered all that you need to do is arrange insurance.

We take care of the entire process

We import hundreds of cars from the UAE each year and we take care of the entire process.

Moving back to the United Kingdom?

A large number of individuals decide to bring their cars back from Dubai taking advantage of the tax-free incentives offered when relocating.

We can assist in taking care of the car whilst you are in the process of moving. If you have chosen to ship your personal belongings along with your car in the same container we are also on hand to collect the car on your behalf.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to import a car from Dubai?

The price to import your car from Dubai into the United Kingdom will greatly vary on your unique circumstances. At My Car Import, we try to keep the cost of importing your car as low as possible by managing the entire process ourselves.

We’ve imported hundreds of cars from Dubai and can assure you that we do our best to ensure a competitive price to import your car. With decades of experience, our logistics partners can offer a streamlined export of your car and with many other cars leaving Dubai frequently – reduced shipping costs through shared containers can be offered.

To get a better idea of how much your car could cost to import into the United Kingdom from Dubai – don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Can we move your car in enclosed transport?

We understand that a large majority of the cars from Dubai might be substantially more than other regions.

If you would like enclosed transport please do mention it at the time of quotation, although the chances are we’ll suggest it for those priceless cars.

Can we assist with importing your motorbike from Dubai?

We get a large number of requests from customers wanting to import their motorbikes from this region and we are more than happy to help. A few of the notable imports are superbikes like Ducatti’s but also truly priceless classics.

If you require any guidance on the shipping process for a motorbike or would like to ship your motorbike from Dubai in a crate then please inform us.

Can you help with the export of my car from Dubai?

In the UAE it is required that a car has an export certificate before leaving. This is a process undertaken by the Road & Transport Authority (RTA). We can assist with both privately owned cars and trade cars.

Export plates can be purchased for an additional fee and are used to drive the car around if needs be within the UAE whilst the shipping is booked.

This process is essentially unregistering the car within the UAE. It also ensures that no car with outstanding finance or fines leaves the country.

Below is a more thorough explanation of the process which we take care of on your behalf with the exception of the RTA export step above. Which is handled by yourself with guidance from an agent in Dubai.

Vehicle Ownership Verification: Ensure you have legal ownership of the car and possess the necessary documents, such as the car registration card (Mulkiya) and the export certificate from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Choose a Shipping Method: Select a suitable shipping method for transporting your car, such as container shipping or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping.

Hire a Freight Forwarder: My Car Import can assist with all your requirements when it comes to forwarding freight.

Prepare Documentation: Provide the necessary documents to My Car Import, including the original car registration card, export certificate, your passport copy, and any other required paperwork.

Customs Clearance: My Car Import will handle the customs clearance process in Dubai, ensuring compliance with all export regulations. This includes obtaining export permits and customs declarations.

Transportation to Port: My Car Import will arrange for the transportation of your car from your location to the designated port of departure. They will ensure proper loading and securing of the car.

Shipping: The car will be shipped to the destination using the chosen shipping method. The transit time will vary based on the shipping method and the destination.

Destination Country Import Procedures: Upon arrival at the destination port, the car will go through the import procedures of the destination country. This may involve customs inspections, duties, taxes, and compliance with local regulations.

Local Customs Broker/Import Agent: Consider engaging the services of a local customs broker or import agent in the destination country to assist with the importation process and ensure compliance with local requirements.

Vehicle Delivery: Arrange for the delivery of your car to your desired location in the destination country.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for exporting a car from Dubai can vary depending on the destination country’s regulations. It is recommended to consult with a freight forwarding company or seek professional advice to ensure a smooth and successful export process.

What port will be car be shipped from?

Vehicles that are being exported from Dubai are shipped from Jebel Ali. It’s the largest port in the Middle East and one of the biggest in the world. connecting multiple regions via air, sea, and land.

The Jebel Ali Port has been voted as the best seaport in the Middle East many times over and will most likely continue to be the best in the Middle East. So don’t worry – your car from Dubai is in the safest of hands.

How quickly can you register my car from Dubai?

Depending on the time your car arrives we aim to get the modifications completed in line with the booking date of your IVA test date unless the car is ten years or older.

We can schedule IVA tests faster than anyone else in the United Kingdom so your car will be registered faster than anyone else if the car is newer than ten years old.

And in the very unlikely case, your car fails an IVA test we can reschedule it faster than anyone else.

Other ‘IVA’ Conversion specialists have to conform to the timeframes outlined by the Government. As car enthusiasts ourselves we understand waiting weeks upon weeks for a test slot isn’t exactly ideal.

What types of cars do you import from Dubai?

We have worked with so many cars that originated from Dubai – but the most popular things are usually SUV’s and Supercars. Although quite often a modest hatchback finds its way into the UK from Dubai.

How does Brexit affect imports from Dubai?

We understand that a large majority of the cars from Dubai might be substantially more than other regions. If you would like enclosed transport please do mention it at the time of quotation, although the chances are we’ll suggest it for those priceless cars.

On arrival in the United Kingdom can you move my car in enclosed transport?

It doesn’t. The normal import rules still apply as Dubai was previously outside of the EU anyway.

How much does it cost to import a car from Dubai?

The price to import your car from Dubai into the United Kingdom will greatly vary on your unique circumstances. At My Car Import, we try to keep the cost of importing your car as low as possible by managing the entire process ourselves.

We’ve imported hundreds of cars from Dubai and can assure you that we do our best to ensure a competitive price to import your car. With decades of experience, our logistics partners can offer a streamlined export of your car and with many other cars leaving Dubai frequently – reduced shipping costs through shared containers can be offered.

To get a better idea of how much your car could cost to import into the United Kingdom from Dubai – don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Can you register damaged supercars from Dubai?

Registering damaged supercars from Dubai in another country involves several considerations, legal requirements, and potential challenges. Here are some points to keep in mind:

Legal and Safety Considerations: Before attempting to register a damaged supercar from Dubai in another country, ensure that the car meets the safety and emissions standards of that country. Some countries have strict regulations regarding car imports, especially if the car has been significantly damaged.

Import Regulations: Many countries have regulations governing the import of cars, including damaged ones. These regulations may involve emission standards, safety requirements, car history checks, and more. It’s important to research the import regulations of the country where you want to register the car.

Vehicle History and Title: When registering a damaged supercar, the car’s history plays a crucial role. You’ll need to provide information about the extent of the damage, repairs performed, and any salvage or rebuilt titles. Some countries might have restrictions on registering cars with certain title statuses.

Customs and Duties: Importing a damaged supercar from Dubai could also involve customs duties and taxes in the destination country. These costs can vary widely depending on the country’s regulations and the value of the car.

Vehicle Inspection: Most countries will require a thorough inspection of the damaged car to ensure that it meets their safety and roadworthiness standards. Depending on the extent of the damage and the quality of repairs, passing this inspection could be challenging.

Insurance Considerations: Insuring a damaged supercar can be more complex than insuring a regular car due to its high value and history. Some insurance companies might have restrictions or limitations on insuring cars with salvage or rebuilt titles.

Professional Assistance: Given the complexity of importing and registering damaged supercars, it’s recommended to work with professionals who specialize in car import/export and registration services. These experts can guide you through the process, help you navigate legal requirements, and ensure that you meet all necessary standards.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Verification: Some countries may require verification of the car’s VIN to ensure it matches the information provided and that the car has not been reported stolen.

Remember that regulations and requirements can change over time and vary from country to country. Before attempting to register a damaged supercar from Dubai in another country, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, consult with experts in the field, and ensure that you comply with all legal and regulatory obligations.

Generally speaking in the United Kingdom it really needs a clean title to be even remotely possible to have a smooth registration process.

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