Moving to Dubai: formalities, transport and expert advice

Preparing for your departure: steps and organization

Before any departure, it is crucial to establish a clear roadmap. Anticipating formalities, accommodation, and health insurance helps avoid administrative hurdles and unnecessary expenses.

Visa and residency requirements

Every resident of Dubai must hold a valid visa. Most expatriates obtain a residence visa through their employer, but it can also be issued through a personal company or a family member already residing in Dubai. The passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival.
Once there, a mandatory medical examination and obtaining the Emirates ID finalize legal residency.

Temporary housing and gradual settlement

Finding permanent accommodation can take time. Opting for temporary accommodation – such as an aparthotel or short‑term furnished rental – in areas like Dubai Marina , Downtown , or Jumeirah offers a comfortable transition.
Short‑term contracts often include water, electricity and internet, simplifying day‑to‑day management from the very first days.

Health insurance and mobility

Health insurance is a legal requirement. Without coverage, the visa cannot be validated. Employers often provide it, but self‑employed individuals can purchase private international insurance.
In terms of transportation, taxis and apps like Careem or Uber are convenient initially. Renting a vehicle on a short‑term basis is common before obtaining an Emirati driver's license.

Customs formalities you need to know

Customs inventory and compliance

All shipments of personal belongings must be accompanied by a detailed inventory, written in English and signed. Each item must be listed with its description, quantity, and estimated value. Used goods are generally exempt from taxes, unlike new goods.
Certain items are strictly prohibited: drugs, alcohol, weapons, electronic cigarettes or sensitive religious publications.

Tax returns and valuation

Used personal effects are generally exempt from customs duties , but a 5% VAT may apply to new items or items in large quantities.
An honest valuation of goods facilitates customs clearance and avoids additional costs. Documents must be translated and clear to be accepted by UAE customs.

Choose your mode of transport: sea or air freight

Deadlines and logistics

Sea freight remains the preferred solution for large volumes. Allow 4 to 8 weeks depending on the port of departure.
Air freight , which is much faster (3 to 10 days), is suitable for urgent or low‑volume items. It allows for precise tracking and better security, but its cost remains high.

Costs and parameters to anticipate

Sea freight is charged by volume: approximately €1,500 to €4,000 for a 20‑foot container.
Air freight depends on weight and volume, between €5 and €10 per kilo depending on the company.
In addition to transport costs, there are handling fees, port taxes and insurance - often overlooked but essential in the total budget.

Transport safety and insurance

Air freight offers greater reliability thanks to short routes and precise tracking. Sea freight remains safe, but is subject to longer delays and more handling.
In all cases, transport insurance covering loss, theft or damage is essential to secure your goods during transit.

Select a moving company

Specialist companies such as AGS , Crown Relocations , Santa Fe Relocation or Allied Pickfords assist individuals through all stages: packing, transport, customs formalities and final delivery.
Their advantage: a turnkey service and digital tracking of each shipment. The choice of provider depends on the volume, budget, and desired level of service.

Optimizing your move: savings and sustainability

Less than Container Load (LCL) or Full Container Load (FCL)

Groupage shipping allows you to share a container with other customers, thus reducing costs and carbon footprint, at the cost of a longer delivery time.
The full container is ideal for large volumes: faster, safer, but more expensive.

Reduction in shipping volume

Selling or donating your belongings before moving significantly reduces freight costs. Second‑hand platforms or local charities allow you to get more value from your possessions while simplifying the move.
Keep only items with high sentimental value or that are difficult to replace.

Temporary storage and transit

If your permanent accommodation isn't ready yet, a climate‑controlled storage unit can accommodate your belongings. These secure warehouses offer flexible rental periods and protection against humidity and heat—essential conditions in Dubai's climate.

Conclusion: a controlled and smooth installation

A successful move to Dubai requires meticulous planning. From administrative preparation to choosing the mode of transport, every decision influences the smoothness and overall cost of the project.
With good planning and the support of reliable service providers, expatriation becomes a controlled transition rather than a logistical challenge.
For investors and individuals alike, Dubai offers a stable, modern and future‑oriented environment - a place to settle down that is a true life project.

Tags: international relocation, Dubai, sea freight, expatriation, customs formalities