Moving to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be an exciting prospect, with many cultural changes and new opportunities.
Hundreds of British citizens move to the UAE every year, with an estimated 240,000 British expats living in Dubai alone.
Before you start your move, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition. Among the things you need to arrange is a reliable removal company to transport your items.
Whether you’re headed to Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Fujairah, Compare My Move can find you the best price for international removal companies in your area. You could save up to 70% on your international removal costs by using one of our verified partners.
When it comes to shipping furniture overseas, you will need to use one of the following:
The best option for you will depend on the volume of goods you have to move and the container size you opt for. The more you have, the more expensive it will be. It is possible to split your items between the services listed, depending on your needs and circumstances.
A professional international removal company will always discuss all freight options with you.
Shipping your items to the UAE by sea is the most affordable option, although it is the slowest way to transport your belongings.
A 2-3 bedroom home will likely need a 20ft shipping container, depending on the number of items. On average the cost of container shipping for this size from the UK to the UAE is £1,737.
Moving items to the UAE can be expensive and prices will vary depending on the volume and weight of the items. You will also need to consider customs, in addition to inspection and holding fees. Be aware that changing COVID-19 regulations may also impact shipments.
Part-Load is a shipping option where you use a portion of a shipping container, rather than paying for an entire container.
You will be allocated a specific amount of space to fill, with the rest of the container made up of other people’s items. Your chosen removal company can provide you with details of how much space you will have. They will also advise you of the logistics and packing.
This can be a more cost-effective way of shipping if you don’t have many items to transport. That said, be aware that this option will likely take longer. Goods shipped via the part container route can take around 6 weeks to reach and be processed in Dubai. In contrast, shipping items from the UK to UAE can take around 4 weeks in a dedicated shipping container.
If you’re looking to get your items to the UAE quicker, air freight is the quickest option. However, it is also the more expensive way to transport your possessions. via air.
A cost-effective option is to send essential items via air and the rest of your belongings via sea.
The cost of air freight for your goods will depend on the volume and weight of the items you are sending. It will also depend on where in the UAE they are being sent to. Keep in mind that there will also be insurance fees to consider.
Keep in mind that items sent via air freight must be professionally packed. This is a non-negotiable security regulation. Your removal company can arrange packing and storing your items in robust cartons for transit. They will also be able to discuss what is and isn’t allowed to be brought into the UAE.
The cost of furniture removals to the UAE will vary depending on the volume of items and what size container you require. It will also depend on where in the UAE you are shipping them to.
Below we’ve included the average costs for shipping furniture and large goods to the UAE:
Shipping Size | Cost |
---|---|
20 ft Container | £1,737 |
40 ft Container | £2,460 |
Be aware that the costs listed above are averages and the final price you’re quoted will vary depending on how much you are moving.
The documentation you will require for moving to the UAE will differ between the various states. Everyone living in the UAE must have an Emirates ID card, issued when you get your residency visa.
Below is a list of basic documentation you need when moving to UAE:
With effect from 26 February, fully vaccinated travellers to the UAE do not need to take a COVID-19 PCR test before they travel.
To apply for a UAE visa, most ex-pats will first need an entry permit. This can be sponsored by work, a hotel, or a resident family member. Once they have arrived in the UAE, ex-pats can apply for a residence visa and work permit.
Foreign workers in the UAE will require a valid employment visa and labour card, usually be arranged by your employer. Be aware that there are UAE visa changes due in September 2022.
We also offer international removals to many destinations worldwide. Here are some other popular locations: