Importing Cars from China to the UAE: A Complete Guide
January 13, 2026. C4CUSTOMS
Introduction
Vehicle imports from China to the UAE have grown rapidly due to competitive pricing, expanding Chinese automotive manufacturing, and strong demand in Dubai’s auto trading market.
However, importing cars is not only about shipping — it requires precise customs documentation, compliance with UAE regulations, correct HS coding, and coordinated clearance procedures. Any mistake can lead to shipment delays, fines, or rejection at port.
This complete guide explains how to import cars from China to the UAE, covering customs requirements, duties, documentation, inspections, and final registration — ensuring smooth clearance through UAE ports.
Why Import Cars from China to the UAE?
Competitive vehicle pricing
Wide availability of electric and fuel vehicles
Growing resale and re-export market in Dubai
Access to UAE’s world-class port infrastructure
Dubai has become a regional hub for car imports, re-exports, and dealership distribution across the GCC and Africa.
Car Import Customs Process in UAE – Step-by-Step
1. Register with UAE Customs
Before importing vehicles, you must obtain a Customs Import Code through Dubai Customs.
This code is mandatory for all import declarations.
2. Prepare Vehicle Import Documentation
Correct documentation is the foundation of fast clearance.
Required Documents for Car Imports:
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading
Certificate of Origin
Vehicle Purchase Invoice
Vehicle Chassis & Engine Details
Customs Declaration (Mirsal 2)
Importer Trade License
Customs Import Code
3. HS Code Classification
All vehicles must be declared using the 12-digit UAE HS Code.
Correct HS coding ensures accurate duty calculation and avoids customs disputes.
4. Submit Declaration in Mirsal 2
UAE Customs uses Mirsal 2, the official digital declaration system.
Your customs broker uploads all documents, vehicle details, HS code, and shipment data for approval.
5. Pay Customs Duties & Fees
Standard Vehicle Import Duty:
5% of CIF Value
Additional Charges May Include:
Port Handling Fees
Container Unloading
Inspection Fees
Storage (if delayed)
6. Customs Inspection
Imported vehicles undergo physical inspection to verify:
Chassis number
Engine number
Vehicle condition
Compliance with UAE import standards
Note:
Right-hand-drive vehicles are prohibited for UAE registration.
7. Cargo Release & Delivery
Once approved, customs releases the vehicle.
The car is delivered to warehouse or RTA testing center for final registration.
RTA Vehicle Registration After Customs
After clearance, vehicles must pass:
RTA Technical Inspection
Insurance Issuance
Registration & Number Plate Allocation
Only after RTA approval can the vehicle legally operate in the UAE.
Ports Handling Car Imports in UAE
Vehicles from China typically arrive through:
Dubai Seaports
Abu Dhabi Ports
Sharjah Port
Land Border Re-exports
Each port follows UAE customs inspection and clearance protocols under Mirsal 2.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect HS Code
Missing Certificate of Origin
Under-declared Invoice Value
No Import Code Registration
Wrong Declaration Type
Shipping Right-Hand-Drive Vehicles
Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and port storage costs.
Why Choose C4Customs for Car Imports from China?
C4Customs provides complete vehicle import clearance services:
Import Code Registration
Mirsal 2 Declarations
Duty Calculation
Customs Inspection Handling
Port Coordination
RTA Registration Support
Door-to-Door Logistics
With experienced customs brokers and real-time port coordination, your vehicles clear faster — without stress or delays.
Conclusion
Importing cars from China to the UAE is a profitable opportunity — but only when customs procedures are handled correctly.
From documentation to inspection and final release, every step requires accuracy, compliance, and local expertise.
For smooth vehicle import clearance, documentation handling, and port release — C4Customs is your trusted customs partner in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard duty is 5% of CIF value.
Yes. EV imports follow the same customs process with RTA compliance checks.
Typically 1–3 working days if documents are correct.
No. UAE prohibits RHD vehicle registration.
Yes. Licensed customs brokers ensure compliance and faster clearance.
Absolutely. Companies like C4CUSTOMS offer expert documentation support, Mirsal 2 filing, and full customs coordination to ensure your shipment clears smoothly and on time.