Despite a growing automotive market, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) isn’t exactly known for its diverse selection. Locally available models are often years behind and more expensive than identical vehicles in their original country.
Combine these factors, and you get one of the world’s most active vehicle import markets. The UAE imports over $2 billion in new and used US vehicles yearly. However, the government has also tightened its requirements on incoming vehicles to improve road and environmental safety.
Imported vehicles require specific documentation before passing through UAE ports, requiring more careful planning and time than before.
Understanding the Legal Requirements
There are quite a few restrictions on importing from the US into the UAE. You should first worry about whether the vehicle in question passes muster.
It’s best to work with a car that’s less than ten years old. If it’s older than that, you must contact the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to obtain additional permits. This restriction keeps older, less safe vehicles off UAE roadways.
Additionally, if the vehicle is under 25 years old, it must be oriented with a left-sided steering wheel. This condition shouldn’t be a problem for American-made cars, but it may arise for luxury car enthusiasts.
Aside from these restrictions, any vehicle in good condition is suitable for import. Acceptable conditions are loosely defined as vehicles that are in long-term working condition, disqualifying vehicles with any damaged parts.
Even a vehicle in good status may be denied import due to a crash report in its history. Over 6500 vehicles were deemed unfit for import in 2022.
Requirements for Electric Vehicles
Recent green initiatives have created clear standards for imported EVs. Every incoming electric or hybrid vehicle is tested for energy efficiency and driving distance in varying environments. To check its eligibility, you can ask most manufacturers if the vehicle is in accordance with ISO 1176.
Required Documentation
Before shipping your car to the UAE, you must prepare a decent amount of documentation. These papers prove your ownership of the vehicle, lack of outstanding debts, and permission from the local government.
You’ll require the following:
- Original Invoice: The only way to get this is to contact the dealership’s sales manager. The invoice should include the vehicle’s manufacturer and original value.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): This document proves that there are no other entities with a claim over the vehicle. You can get an NOC through the bank that financed the asset.
- Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO): The MCO is the original proof of ownership provided by the new car dealership.
Valid UAE Passport, Visa, and Driver’s License: These act as proof of residency in the UAE and are required to claim the vehicle after import.
These documents must be obtained before shipping the vehicle but can be primarily left to the shipping company. However, it’s best to discuss if there’s anything you must personally get.
Other required documents you’ll need after going through the inspection and shipping process include the following:
- Original Bill of Lading (OBL): Proves your ownership over imported goods and is required to pick up your vehicle in the UAE.
- Customs Declaration Form: This shows that you went through the proper channels to import the vehicle and reports the origin and destination of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC): Provided after clearing the Customs Import Bill of Entry. You must show this certificate to register the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
There are three options for shipping a vehicle overseas with varying prices and delivery times.
Container Shipping
Container shipments are the equivalent of bulk shipping. Several vehicles are loaded into one container on a cargo ship. The cost depends on your vehicle’s size, but container shipping is the most affordable option.
RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off)
In RoRo shipping, your car is driven on and off the cargo ship via ramps rather than lifted via a crane. This removes much of the risk to your vehicle’s condition and makes it easier to pass inspection once it arrives in the UAE.
Air Freight
Air freight is easily the most expensive shipping method. It is useful for people who need their vehicle ASAP, but it should be used as a last resort.
Preparing Your Car for Shipment
To export a vehicle from the US, you must choose a licensed shipping company. The Federal Maritime Commission always keeps an updated list of licensed services and their contact information.
The vehicle will undergo a strict inspection process in the US and the UAE. Here are a few tips to give it the best chance of passing.
- Take it to the mechanic to fix any leaks or potential disqualifying problems
- Wash the vehicle to make the inspection process easier
- Remove any belongings to avoid damage or loss during transit
- Inflate your tires to protect your suspension during the long trip
Document your vehicle’s condition before handing it over to the shipping company. Taking copious pictures will help you make any insurance claims on damages that occur during the trip.
Handling Customs Clearance and Delivery in the UAE
When your vehicle arrives, it goes through another clearance process before you can register it. This occurs in whichever port it arrives at and requires you to pay a fee equal to 5 percent of the vehicle’s local value.
You’ll also have to pay for a customs clearance certificate, container inspection, and new bumper plates. These fees should total roughly 5,500 AED.
Next, you must take the vehicle for testing to ensure it meets local requirements. You must provide the center with your UAE driver’s license, import documents, and customs clearance certificate. Testing a US import vehicle will cost about 450 AED.
The final step before registration is to have the vehicle insured. Abu Dhabi National Insurance, Noor Takaful, and Emirates Insurance are the most popular providers. You must provide your driver’s license and the inspection report from the testing center.
Registering Your Imported Vehicle
Now that you’ve laid all the groundwork, you can register the vehicle and start driving in peace. Visit the Dubai Land Department (DLD) with the following documents:
- Original invoice for the vehicle
- Blue export plates from UAE customs
- Proof of insurance
- UAE driver’s license
- Customs clearance certificate
- Vehicle inspection report
After the application is accepted, you’re issued white bumper plates and a registration card. These should be kept with the vehicle at all times.
Conclusion
Importing a vehicle to the UAE isn’t exactly easy. The process involves many documents, several inspections, and significant fees. However, the lack of availability of particular brands and models may make everything worth the effort.
Before starting the import process, make absolutely certain that your vehicle meets UAE requirements. It must meet environmental, age, and condition standards, or it will be rejected in the final steps, wasting your effort.
We recommend working closely with a reputable shipping company or customs broker. They can quickly inform you of any problems and ensure all paperwork is present. Their help can get you on Dubai roads as quickly as possible.
