International Shipping
International Shipping to Dubai
Everything you need for shipping to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates from the UK including how to get an instant shipping cost quote online.
The most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is an attractive destination for UK citizens looking to move overseas. Countless professionals make the move each year for its lucrative job opportunities and warm climate. Dubai offers a whole host of benefits for those moving there including a low crime rate, excellent educational systems and an incredibly modern infrastructure as well as its numerous attractions. If you are planning to ship personal effects or household goods to Dubai you’re in the right place. There are a few things you need to consider but PSS are here to make the whole shipping process simple.
PSS has been shipping to Dubai from the UK for over 40 years, including Abu Dhabi, less known cities and the Emirates too. After all this time of coordinating international shipments, our priorities remain the same: to provide you with exceptional service and affordable shipping costs from the UK to the UAE. Many UK expats going to work in the United Arab Emirates choose our Personal Shipping Services to ship their belongings. In addition, we also help many UAE expats who are returning from the UK to the Emirates.
Our overseas shipping to Dubai service is intended to make your transition to life in Dubai as stress-free as possible. No matter whether you are just shipping a few boxes or your whole household contents and car, our expert teams fully organise your UK to Dubai shipment. This includes assistance with customs clearance and documentation.
Shipping your belongings to Dubai is easy with PSS
STEP 1
Home Survey or Quote
Get an online quote in 60 seconds or book a FREE home survey.
STEP 2
Help and Advice
Your dedicated Account Manager can help answer your questions and tailor your shipping requirements.
STEP 3
Quick and easy collection and shipping
Whether you are shipping boxes or furniture, choose either our self-packing or professional packing service.
STEP 4
Customs clearance & delivery to your new home
On arrival our agents will take care of customs clearance and deliver to your door.
“Why choose PSS International in 2024?”
- Free home or video survey
- Independent, family run business with 40 years of experience
- We only handle overseas removals & international shipping
- Members of BAR Overseas Group
- Protection by the BAR Advance Payment Guarantee Scheme
- FIDI Global Alliance (Worldwide Moving Association)
- FAIM Accredited (Removal Quality Assurance Standard)
How can we help? Call 0800 988 3711
Our friendly team are on hand to answer any questions.
Shipping to Dubai from the UK
From the second you alert us to your interest, you are assigned a move coordinator to manage your UK to Dubai shipping from pre-home survey through to unloading of your moving boxes.
Our experience as the UK’s leading personal shipping service means we know what it takes to move the belongings of families, expats, travellers and students to Dubai and can make the whole process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
We serve every Emirates city and region, so no matter where you’re heading in Dubai and the UAE, we’ll ensure your belongings arrive safely, and you can be certain your items are in safe hands.
What does our international shipping service to Dubai include?
- Door to door shipping service
- Free home/video survey
- Part or full load container service
- Dedicated Move Manager
- Help with documentation
- Export quality packing materials
- Choice of self-pack or professional packing service
- Advice on customs requirements
- Use of recognised accredited shipping lines
- Customs clearance
- Storage in UK or Dubai if required
Shipping to Dubai Reviews
Shipping to Dubai cost calculator
Want to know how it will cost to move house to Dubai? Our free online shipping to Dubai cost calculator will help you calculate the volume of household goods you want to ship and provide you with an estimate of the cost. This includes the cost of shipping using sea freight and air freight services.
The Ultimate Guide to Shipping to Dubai
Below are answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions about shipping to Dubai.
How Long Does Shipping From UK to Dubai Take?
Shipping times to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates can vary. Shipping groupage in a shared container takes longer than shipping a full container load as different customers shipments need to be consolidated to fill one container.
Port | Full Container Load (FCL) | Shared Container (Groupage) |
---|---|---|
Dubai / UAE | 5-7 weeks | 7-10 weeks |
NB: These are approximate sea freight shipping times to ports in Dubai / UAE only. You will need to allow additional time (approx. 10-15 days) for customs clearance and final delivery to your destination.
How Long Does Air Freight Shipping to Dubai take from the UK?
For sending excess baggage or boxes to Dubai by air freight allow approximately 3 – 10 days.
Additional services include sea freight, however, your goods will take longer to arrive.
How Much Does Shipping to Dubai Cost from the UK in 2024?
Many expats are regularly travelling between the UK and the Dubai so there are many cost effective shipping options by both air and sea.
PSS’ shipping estimates to Dubai from the UK are based upon the best shipping method for sending goods to Dubai.
As we have large numbers of customers shipping belongings to Dubai every year, we are able to offer very competitive shipping rates.
Typical Shipping Costs from the UK to Dubai 2024
Move Type | Container Size | Cost(GBP) |
---|---|---|
2– 3 Large Boxes | Groupage | £335 – £390 |
1 Bed Flat | Shared Container | £1655 – £1750 |
3 Bed House | 20 ft Container | £3711 – £4981 |
4 Bed House + Car | 40 ft Container | £6588 – £7996 |
You can use the online shipping cost calculators on this page to get an estimate of the shipping costs for goods to Dubai from the UK. Please note this is purely an estimate of the costs.
We have separate cost calculators for shipping boxes/bags to Dubai and for shipping furniture to Dubai. Although the cheapest way to ship to United Arab Emirates is using part-load container shipping, you should consider that many items are more expensive in Dubai. When you add up the cost of replacing all your smaller items it is often cheaper to ship a higher volume of goods. Some items are also hard to obtain or even unavailable in the Dubai.
We calculate part-load shipping rates from the UK to Dubai using the combined dimensions of your consignment and the area they take up within the container. For larger moves using sole-use container shipping, your freight costs to Dubai are determined by which size shipping container you use – 20ft or 40ft. We also include the cost of road or rail freight to your home in Dubai.
Cost of air freight shipping to Dubai
If you need to send goods to Dubai urgently we can provide air freight services.
Air freight is our fastest shipping option and for smaller quantities, it can be surprisingly cost effective. We base air freight quotes on the weight and volume of your goods, so for consignments of more than a couple of boxes, our sea freight shipping options are cheaper.
PSS’s trained Move Managers can provide you with further clarification on different shipping options so you can decide whether you want the cheapest, most economical or fastest way to ship your goods.
Cheapest shipping quotes to Dubai
We always aim to provide you with the cheapest shipping cost to Dubai. We are able to offer cheap shipping due to the volume we ship and the number of customers we help move to the Emirates.
If you receive a much cheaper quote, check carefully that they include a full door to door service and if any costs are excluded. Beware that some cheap quotes only include the cost of shipping to the nearest container port which can be a long way from your destination!
Also ensure that they are a fully accredited shipping company with FIDI or BAR Overseas in order to get the best price and service.
Get an accurate price for shipping to Dubai
The surest way to receive an accurate shipping quote for goods to Dubai is through a free home survey. Our home surveys are intended to provide customers with a clear-cut and detailed shipping quote from the UK to UAE before they agree to anything.
A surveyor can either visit your home or it can be conducted via our mobile video app.
What size Shipping Container do I need for Dubai?
Whether your load requires full or shared container shipping to Dubai depends on the quantity or combined dimensions of your items.
Shared Shipping Containers to Dubai (Groupage)
For small moves, we load items into a shared shipping container from the UK to Dubai alongside the boxes of other PSS customers, this is also known as our groupage service.
Part-load container shipping (sometimes called LCL – Less than Container Load)
Our groupage service is a quick and easy way to send a single box of clothing or personal goods and sports equipment, smaller items of furniture, or household contents from a single room up to a small flat. You only need to pay for the space you use.
Full-Load Container Shipping from the UK to Dubai
If you have a larger load to send to Dubai, our Full Container Load (FCL) shipping option is advantageous, also known as sole-use container shipping to Dubai.
If you are sending a large family home of furniture and personal items, PSS can provide a 20ft or 40ft shipping container intended for your sole use.
Please note the cost of container shipping for goods to Dubai from the UK depends on the chosen size of the shipping container. Our 20ft and 40ft shipping containers have plenty of space, and it is up to you how you fill that container.
A standard 20ft shipping container is large enough for the contents of the average three-bedroom house.
A 40ft shipping container is usually big enough to fit the contents of a 4-bedroom house and car.
The quoted cost includes a full, professional packing service for shipping to Dubai.
Another advantage of having your own sole-use shipping container is that it leaves immediately on the next available ship bound for Dubai. No waiting around for other customers to fill out the shared container and quicker transit.
Do I Need Maritime Shipping Insurance or Shipment Protection Cover to Dubai?
It is highly advisable to take out maritime shipping insurance or shipment protection cover before you ship your personal effects or household goods to Dubai.
Although it is doubtful to experience problems when shipping items from the UK to Dubai, it is still wise to have shipment protection cover when sending goods overseas, especially for items of significant financial value.
PSS International offers very flexible Shipment Protection Plans. You can cover your whole shipment or choose the individual items you wish to cover.
Your PSS Move Manager can explain the different options available and guide you through completing the Shipment Protection Valuation form.
Customs Guide for shipping personal effects to Dubai / UAE
Importation is allowed for people moving to the UAE provided the shipment consists of personal effects and used household goods only.
All used personal effects and household goods are exempted of duty. Brand new items will attract Custom duty at 5% of the invoice value.
To help you, we recommend you download and carefully read our FIDI Shipping Customs Guide for Dubai for information on prohibited items and restricted items.
Prohibited items will be confiscated, whereas restricted items will be subject to review.
What Can/Can't I Ship to Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates and Dubai have very strict rules on prohibited items and what can and cannot be imported to the country. We highly recommend you check this carefully to ensure your shipment fully complies with their regulations so that you do not face delays with the customs authorities.
Prohibited items in Dubai include:
- Weapons,
- Firearms (real or ornamental)
- Ammunition,
- Firecrackers,
- Swords, daggers, spears, etc.,
- Military uniform or equipment,
- Alcohol, spirits, narcotics of all kinds
- Poppy seeds and flowers, leaves etc.,
- Banned drugs and medicines, medicines in large quantities even obtained under prescription and for the consignee’s own use,
- Radio transmitter or communication equipment,
- Statues and figures of animal products with a religious undertone,
- Carvings and statues of humans especially in nude,
- Pornographic materials,
- Foodstuff in large quantities,
- Religious books other than dealing with Islamic beliefs, controversial political literature and materials contrary to an Islamic State’s principles.
- Goods of Israeli origin or bearing Israeli flags and emblems.
- Gambling tools, machinery and devices of all kinds.
- E-cigarettes and electronic hookah.
- Laser pointers.
NB: If any of these prohibited items are found in the shipment during the inspection by the Dubai Customs, the items will be confiscated and, in some cases, an explanation will be asked from the consignees and severe punishment can be imposed including fines or imprisonment.
Restricted Imports into Dubai include:
- Records, tapes, films, photographs, books, magazines, periodicals, 2 wheel hoverboard etc.
- Live plants, seeds, citrus fruit and flowers are coming under restricted items, if found objectionable, they will destroy the same and never return these to the consignee.
These items will be subject to review and censorship by the UAE Ministry of Information.
These items will be released if nothing abnormal is found.
This procedure will take from 10 to 15 days.
For further information visit the Dubai Government website. We recommend that you also read our Dubai Customs Guide for what you can and cannot send to Dubai.
What type of shipping company should I use?
When exporting sentimental items or expensive furniture overseas, you need to have full confidence in the international shipping company you choose. There are a few pointers to look for that can help determine the best global shipping companies to Dubai.
Accreditations and associations are the best indicators of how trusted a company is within the industry and how safe its services are. PSS’ continued efforts and dedication to shipping to Dubai from the UK are echoed in our memberships and achievements:
- FAIM Accredited – the only globally recognised independent quality assurance standard for the international moving industry.
- FIDI Global Alliance Members – providing customers with the same superior standards in Dubai as in the UK.
- British Association of Removers Members – the leading British quality standard and ensures customers financial protection with the BAR Advance Payment Guarantee Scheme.
- Movers Trading Club (MTC) – Members of this organisation join together to negotiate the best service and shipping rates with leading international shipping companies. Members are therefore able to offer lower shipping rates to customers.
When you use PSS, you can be certain you are in safe hands as we are continuously looking to improve our services and provide the best services possible.
PSS International Shipping Services to Dubai
We offer a full menu of shipping options to Dubai, whether you are sending personal items, furniture, extra boxes, pets or vehicles, our Dubai movers have a solution ready and waiting for you:
Shipping Personal Effects to Dubai from the UK
Shipping personal effects from the UK to Dubai is simple with PSS. We send personal items to Dubai for countless customers each year, from clothing and shoes, makeup and toiletries, to sports equipment, tech, musical instruments and more, your shipping options are limitless.
Shipping Furniture and Household Goods to Dubai
Shipping household goods to Dubai is a PSS speciality. Using our freight services and industry expertise, PSS can ship furniture of any weight, dimensions and any quantities from the UK to destinations across Dubai.
Our team of experienced international packers will ensure all your belongings and valuable items are carefully export wrapped and packed for their journey.
The best way to get started for our international furniture shipping service is to book a free home or video survey so we can give you an accurate quote.
Shipping Excess Baggage & Unaccompanied Luggage from the UK to Dubai
Using PSS to ship boxes, luggage, suitcases and excess baggage to Dubai cuts out the extortionate charges issued by airline carriers and makes your journey to Dubai more manageable by reducing the amount of luggage you have to carry.
We can supply you with a variety of box sizes or you can use your own bags/suitcases.
Whether you have one box, two suitcases or ten loads of excess baggage, our baggage shipping to Dubai is an ideal service!
Shipping Boxes to Dubai from UK
Please note If you only have smaller items to ship to Dubai, we recommend our box shipping service. Your boxes will be shipped along with those from other customers in a shared container (Groupage) so you only pay for the space you use.
We can supply a variety of box and carton sizes including packing and wrapping materials such as bubble wrap. We also have custom cartons for items such as bicycles.
Shipping Cars and Vehicles to Dubai
PSS provides a range of shipping options to make car shipping to Dubai feasible – regardless of your vehicle. Whether you want to send a car to Dubai in a container of its own or alongside personal and household items, our Dubai vehicle shipping options make it possible.
In addition to shipping cars we can assist with shipping all kinds of other vehicles to Dubai including motorcycles, bikes and boats.
Shipping Pets, Dogs and Cats to Dubai
Pet shipping to Dubai can be daunting for any pet owners and pet relocation is a very specialised service. We, therefore, work with trusted partners for transporting animals from UK to Dubai. Whether you want to take your cat or dog to Dubai, you can entrust PSS and our partners to relocate them safely.
Shipping Parcels and Small Packages to Dubai
For small parcels and packages, it is probably best to use Royal Mail , especially for less than 2kg. For larger or multiple boxes you can save by using a personal shipping service like that from PSS.
Shipping Goods and Freight to Dubai
At PSS International we specialise in personal shipping services for people moving or relocating to Dubai. We provide sea freight shipping services to Dubai as well as air freight. Sea freight is the cheapest method to transport your goods – whilst air freight will be the quickest way to move your belongings to Dubai.
If you wish to ship commercial or non-personal items to Dubai then it is best to contact a freight-forwarder.
Express Air Freight and Fast shipping from UK to Dubai
If you need to ship items to Dubai quickly then we recommend our priority Express Air Freight Service.
This takes about 7 – 14 days and is ideal if you wish to send some boxes or bags of personal belongings to arrive ahead of your household container.
It is also commonly used by tradesmen wishing to ship tools to Dubai so they can begin work immediately on arrival.
Packing your Items for Shipping to Dubai
PSS provides two packing options, the first being a full professional packing service with our friendly team, or if you would prefer, you can self-pack with our “You Pack We Ship” service.
Professional Packing Service
When you opt for our professional overseas packing service, a specialist team will arrive at your home on the day of your move to pack the required items in sturdy packing materials and moving boxes ready for sending to Dubai. For furniture we offer a full export wrapping service so that they are well protected.
We can also provide custom made wooden crates and antique wrapping for delicate items.
Our packing teams create an inventory to ensure our customer is aware of every item that we will ship to Dubai.
Self-Pack Service
If you are only sending a small number of items in boxes or suitcases, you can opt to self-pack your belongings in the comfort of your own home. This “You Pack, We Ship” is an increasingly popular option.
We understand the importance of the safe handling and delivery of your goods to Dubai, so we still provide all moving boxes, tea cartons and packing materials such as bubble wrap when you self-pack.
Once you are ready, we’ll pick up your boxes and deliver them to your new home in Dubai.
What is the Best Way to Send Boxes to Dubai & the UAE?
Whether you are taking one, a few or even multiple boxes to Dubai then our box shipping service is the best way for you to ship your boxes.
We provide boxes and packaging materials and deliver them to your address in the UK.
You then pack all your personal possessions or household items and call us when you are ready for them to be collected.
There are three shipping options for your boxes. The method you choose depends on costs and urgency.
- Sea Freight: your boxes will be sent in a shared shipping container with other people’s boxes and belongings moving to Dubai. This is the cheapest, but the slowest method.
- Air Freight: If you need your belongings to arrive sooner then air freight can be a good option.
- Express Air Freight: If your shipment is needed urgently then express air freight is the best option, however, this will be more expensive.
Your dedicated Move Manager will help you with all the required paperwork and answer any questions you may have.
You can then take time to enjoy a stop-over on your journey home to Dubai whilst we take care of transporting your boxes.
Our partner company in Dubai will notify you when your ship arrives, take care of customs clearance and deliver your boxes at a time that’s convenient for you.
They can also arrange storage for you if you are not yet ready to take delivery.
How Long Does it Take to Ship Boxes From the UK to Dubai?
Average shipping times to Dubai from the UK
Method | Sea Freight | Air Freight |
Shipping Time | 8-12 weeks | 7-14 days |
The table above gives you an estimate of how long it will take to ship your boxes to Dubai. Delivery times will vary depending on where in Dubai you are moving to.
Please note: These times are for arrival in your destination port, You will also need to allow additional time for customs clearance.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Boxes to Dubai from the UK?
The cost will depend on the volume of boxes you are shipping and whether you are using sea or air freight.
To get an initial price we recommend using our free online cost calculator. Our Move Managers will also be able to tailor your quote to meet your personal requirements.
PSS is widely regarded as the cheapest and best company for shipping your items to Dubai. We are confident that we can give you a very good quote without compromising on service.
Please note that sea freight costs are based on volume whereas air freight rates are calculated by volumetric weight–a combination of weight and volume.
Do You Have Bike Cartons/Boxes for Shipping Bicycles to Dubai?
Yes. Whilst you can buy a specialist bike box, we can provide you with a strong cardboard bike carton for shipping your bicycle to Dubai.
You will need to dismantle some parts of your cycle such as the pedals and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned for Dubai customs, but taking your bike with you is very easy.
How to Ship Tools and Ship Toolboxes to Dubai
Our service is perfect for sending your work tools and toolboxes to Dubai. You’ll need to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned before transportation and well wrapped to protect them.
If you need your tools quickly, we recommend you use our air freight service. Otherwise, your tool box can be sent via sea freight.
Please speak to your Move Manager if your toolbox is very heavy, we have a special service for overweight items.
Please note: Some items such as batteries and gas canisters can be restricted or prohibited. Call us for more details.
Common Questions About Moving to Dubai
Why Move to Dubai From the UK?
As the world’s playground, there are plenty of great reasons to move to Dubai. As a country known for incredible cityscapes and experiences, countless Brits make the move every year for work. Check out our blog on why move to Dubai and the UAE to find out more or get in touch.
Where is the Best Place to Move in Dubai as an Expat?
Moving to UAE as a UK citizen is an extremely popular choice but where is best? Many expats flock to Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina to be close to work and the area’s fantastic amenities whilst Jumeirah Village Circle is very popular with families. Outside of Dubai, Abu Dhabi is one of the most popular places to live in the UAE in addition to Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.
Can You Help Me Move to Other Emirates?
Of course! We offer international moving services across the UAE including Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Contact our team to find out more about how we can help you move to the Emirates.