How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to the UAE?
RORO from Southampton to Jebel Ali starts at £1,400 for a small saloon. Add 5% import duty on CIF and around AED 500–1,000 in registration fees once the car arrives.
UAE Import Guide: Shipping Cars from UK to the Emirates
Everything you need to import a car from the UK to the UAE in 2026 — shipping methods, Jebel Ali clearance, 5% duty, GCC spec inspection and Dubai/Abu Dhabi registration.
Frequently asked questions
Can I import a right-hand drive car to Dubai?
You can physically ship it, but you cannot register it for road use without an LHD conversion. Most UK exporters who insist on RHD ship to Pakistan, Cyprus, Kenya or Sri Lanka instead.
Is there VAT to pay on car imports in the UAE?
No, there is no VAT at the point of import. 5% VAT applies only if and when the car is subsequently sold within the UAE.
How long does UK to UAE car shipping take?
Port-to-port RORO is 18–22 days. Allow 4–6 weeks total including UK collection, customs and onward delivery in the UAE.
Can I drive my UK car on UK plates after landing in Dubai?
Yes for 7 days from Jebel Ali release on transit plates issued by your customs broker. After 7 days the vehicle must be UAE-registered or removed from public roads.
Does the 5-year age restriction apply to classics?
No. Classics over 30 years register under the UAE Heritage Classic Vehicle scheme with restricted use (events, exhibitions, weekend driving) at a flat AED 800/year regardless of age.
Get a free quote · WhatsApp +44 7376 584421 · info@theshipcars.co.uk