How to Import a Car to the UAE — Duties, Paperwork & Process

At C4Customs, we simplify the entire car import and customs clearance process in the UAE, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, legally, and on time. Whether you’re relocating from abroad, purchasing a car from the USA, or importing a luxury vehicle, our expert team handles all documentation, customs duties, and port clearance — so you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience.

Why Import a Car to the UAE?

Importing a car to the UAE is a smart choice for many vehicle owners. The UAE’s strong demand for luxury, performance, and rare models makes it an ideal destination for car enthusiasts. In many cases, importing a vehicle from the USA or Europe can also be more cost-effective than buying locally.

From customs clearance in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to final registration with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), C4Customs ensures every step meets official standards and timelines.

Understanding UAE Vehicle Import Regulations

Before importing your car, it’s important to follow the UAE’s vehicle import laws to avoid delays or penalties.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Vehicles must comply with GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) specifications for safety and emissions.

• Only left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are allowed. Right-hand drive (RHD) cars are not permitted on UAE roads.

• Cars older than 10 years may only be imported if classified as classic or vintage and approved by authorities.

• A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) report and export certificate from the country of origin are mandatory for customs clearance.

Our team at C4Customs helps you verify compliance, prepare the required documents, and obtain import permits to ensure your car meets all UAE customs and RTA standards.

Step-by-Step Process to Import a Car to the UAE

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Select a model that meets GCC standards. Popular imported models include Toyota, Nissan, BMW, and Ford — known for reliability and resale value in the UAE.

2. Verify Documentation

We help you prepare all the essential paperwork, including:

• Purchase Invoice or Bill of Sale

• Vehicle Title & Registration

• Proof of Identity (Passport + Residency Visa)

• UAE Import Permit (from the Ministry of Economy)

• Insurance Proof

• Customs Declaration Form

• Emissions Compliance Certificate (if required)

3. Shipping the Vehicle

Depending on your budget and timeline, you can choose from three main shipping methods:

 Sea Freight 

• Cost-effective for single or multiple vehicles

• Takes 4–6 weeks

• Ideal for shipments via Jebel Ali Port or Khalifa Port

• C4Customs handles all port customs clearance and duty calculation

 Air Freight

• Fastest delivery (2–5 working days)

• Suitable for high-value or luxury cars

• Direct arrival at Dubai or Abu Dhabi International Airport

• Higher cost, but premium service

 Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)

• Vehicle driven on and off the ship

• Budget-friendly option for operational cars

• Not suitable for brand-new or high-end vehicles

No matter the method, C4Customs ensures customs clearance, inspection coordination, and final release are completed quickly and correctly.

Customs Clearance & Duty Charges

When importing a car into the UAE, you’ll need to pay customs duties and VAT:

• Standard customs duty: 5% of the car’s CIF value (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

• VAT: 5% (on the total landed cost)

• Additional fees may apply for inspection or storage, depending on the port

At C4Customs, we handle:

• Customs entry filing

• Duty calculation & payment

• Inspection scheduling

• Port clearance

• RTA registration support

Our team ensures you never overpay and that your car clears customs without delays or penalties.

After Arrival: Registration & RTA Clearance

Once your vehicle arrives and clears customs, the final steps include:

1. Vehicle inspection at the RTA

2. Emissions testing and compliance verification

3. Registration under your name with UAE number plates

C4Customs provides full guidance and document preparation for RTA car registration, ensuring your vehicle is road-ready in no time.

Why Choose C4Customs for Car Import & Customs Clearance in UAE?

Expertise Across All Ports – We handle clearances through Jebel Ali Port, Khalifa Port, and all UAE Free Zones.
End-to-End Service – From paperwork to delivery at your doorstep.
Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees; accurate duty calculation and cost breakdown.
Fast & Compliant Process – We ensure GCC compliance and avoid unnecessary inspection delays.

C4Customs is your trusted partner for customs clearance, vehicle import, air & sea freight, and RTA registration services in Dubai and across the UAE.

Contact Us Today
Let’s simplify your car import process — talk to our team to get a free consultation and quotation for car import to the UAE.