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Importing a car from the UAE
Are you planning to import a car from the United Arab Emirates? This is a complex and time-consuming process, often involving significant costs. Proper guidance is essential. SCL Rotterdam is happy to assist you. With nearly 20 years of experience in importing vehicles from, among others, the UAE, we provide expert advice and can take care of the entire process on your behalf.
Why import a car from the United Arab Emirates?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a vast selection of exotic and high-performance vehicles. Unique cars from luxury brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Bentley are often available in excellent condition and at competitive prices. Importing a car from the UAE is therefore an attractive option for car enthusiasts looking for a high-end vehicle at relatively lower costs.
Costs of importing a car from the United Arab Emirates
Since the United Arab Emirates is not part of the EU, different rules and costs apply when importing goods from the UAE. The costs of importing a car from the United Arab Emirates include:
- Transport costs: vary by season and transport method
- Import duties: 10% of the purchase price plus transport costs
- VAT: 21% on the total value including import duties and transport costs
- Inspection costs: RDW vehicle inspection fees
- BPM tax: depending on CO₂ emissions and year of manufacture
- Modification costs: required for vehicle registration
Transport costs from the UAE can vary significantly. In recent years, sea freight for a 40ft container from Jebel Ali port in Dubai to the port of Rotterdam has ranged from around USD 3,000 to as little as USD 400 at certain times.
At SCL Rotterdam, we work with multiple shipping lines and handle large volumes. This allows us to negotiate competitive rates for our clients and reduce overall costs. We are also fully familiar with the local procedures. Feel free to contact us for tailored advice.
Importing a car from the UAE to the Netherlands
When importing a car from the UAE to the Netherlands, there are several important points to consider. Many vehicles from the UAE do not yet have European type approval, as they are built according to GCC specifications (Gulf Cooperation Council), the standard for vehicles in the Middle East.
Technical modifications
To register a GCC-spec vehicle from the UAE in the Netherlands, technical modifications are often required. A vehicle may only be driven in Europe once it complies with EU regulations. Vehicles built to EU specifications usually already meet these requirements, making registration in the Netherlands much simpler.
Beware of damaged vehicles
If you encounter a vehicle with US specifications, extra caution is advised. In the UAE, many former accident-damaged vehicles are offered for sale. These are often cars that were written off in the United States due to insurance claims and then exported to the UAE, cosmetically repaired and resold.
Importing a car from the UAE in 5 steps
Choosing SCL Rotterdam to guide your car import from the UAE means complete peace of mind. We manage the entire process step by step to ensure a smooth experience.
Step 1: Inspection
Vehicles are usually shipped from Jebel Ali port in Dubai. Once the car arrives at the port, we prepare it for transport by carrying out an inspection and documenting any existing damage.
Step 2: Transport
We then transport the vehicle safely to the Netherlands. Container shipping is the most common method, though roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) transport can also be an option in certain cases.
Step 3: Homologation
After arrival at the port of Rotterdam or Antwerp, we arrange the required inspections and documentation. If necessary, we modify the vehicle in our own workshop to ensure compliance with European regulations.
Step 4: Customs clearance
We handle the complete customs process, including calculation of import duties, VAT and filing the BPM declaration, ensuring smooth entry into the Netherlands.
Step 5: Delivery
Once all formalities are completed, you will be notified that the vehicle is ready for collection. Alternatively, delivery to your home address can be arranged. After handover of the keys, the vehicle is ready for immediate use on Dutch roads.
Advice and guidance
Have you found a car in the United Arab Emirates? Would you like a clearer picture of the import costs, or do you have another question? Request a non-binding quote or contact us directly. We are available every working day from 08:30 to 17:00. Call +31 (0)10 427 7723 or email sales@sclrotterdam.com.
Shipping a car to the United Arab Emirates
Did you know SCL can also assist with exporting a car to the United Arab Emirates? Whether you are selling your vehicle or relocating to Dubai, we can manage the entire process for you—from container loading to export documentation and customs formalities in the UAE.
Why choose SCL Rotterdam?
We are experts in automotive logistics and registration. With almost 20 years of experience in the US, Canada and UAE and other countries, we have all the knowledge and expertise to help you.
From the initial inspection to home delivery, we'll take care of everything for you throughout the entire car import process from the United States.
Get on the road immediately after you take delivery. Our inspection and registration services ensure your car meets all requirements.
Our passion for cars translates into personalized service with an eye for detail. We are committed to the process and take care of everything – quickly, safely, and transparently.
SCL Rotterdam's advanced customer portal gives you insight anytime, anywhere. This way, you know exactly where your car is in the import or export process.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Importing a Car from the United Arab Emirates
How much does it cost to import a car from the United Arab Emirates?
The cost of importing a car from the United Arab Emirates includes not only transportation costs but also import duties, VAT, inspection fees, and BPM (private motor vehicle and motorcycle tax). Transportation costs depend on the season, the condition of the car, and the chosen transport method. These can amount to several thousand euros.
How do I export my car to the United Arab Emirates?
Exporting a car to the United Arab Emirates is a complex and time-consuming process. Therefore, it's best to hire a company with experience in this area, such as SCL Rotterdam. We offer support with specific matters or handle the entire process. We then load the container, arrange the export documentation, and handle customs clearance upon arrival in Dubai.
How much import duty do you pay for a car from the United Arab Emirates?
How much import duty do you pay for a car from the United Arab Emirates?
When importing a car from the United Arab Emirates, you pay 10% import duty on the purchase price and transportation costs of the vehicle.
How old can cars be when importing into the UAE?
You can import cars of any age into the UAE. There are currently no restrictions.
What should I pay attention to when importing a car from the UAE?
When importing a car from the UAE, you should pay attention to the car's specifications. A car with EU specifications is relatively easy to import into the Netherlands. However, GCG or US spec cars often require technical modifications to ensure compliance with European laws and regulations. Furthermore, US-spec cars have an increased risk of hidden defects from previous damage.