Everything you need for shipping to the United Arab Emirates from the UK including how to get an instant shipping cost quote online.

If you are planning to ship personal effects or household goods to the UAE you’re in the right place. There are a few things you need to consider but PSS make the whole shipping process easy.

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.

PSS has been shipping to UAE from the UK for over 40 years, and not just Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also the less well-known cities and 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 Emirates.

Our overseas shipping to UAE service is intended to make your transition to life in UAE 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 UAE shipment, including customs clearance and assistance with documentation.

International Shipping to UAE 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 United Arab Emirates from the UK

From the second you alert us to your interest, you are assigned a move coordinator to manage your UK to UAE shipping from the pre-home survey through to the 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 UAE and can make the whole process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Our international services cover every Emirates city and region, so no matter where you’re heading in UAE, we’ll ensure your belongings arrive safely

We ship to all seven of the Emirates:
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

What does our international shipping service to United Arab Emirates include?

  • Door to door international shipping service
  • Free home/video survey
  • Part or full load container removal service
  • Dedicated Move Manager
  • Help with documentation
  • Export quality packing materials
  • Choice of self-pack or professional packing service
  • Advice on international customs requirements
  • Use of recognised accredited shipping lines
  • Customs clearance
  • Storage in UK or UAE if required

Shipping to UAE Reviews

International Shipping to UAE cost calculator

Want to know how it will cost to move house to UAE? Our free online cost Calculator will help you calculate the volume of household goods you want to ship and provide you with an estimate of the cost of shipping to UAE.

International Shipping cost calculator

How much are you shipping?

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The Ultimate Guide to Shipping to UAE

Below are answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions about shipping to UAE.

How Long Does Shipping From UK to United Arab Emirates Take?

Shipping times to UAE 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.

Average Sea Freight Shipping Times to United Arab Emirates from the UK

Port in UAE Full Container Load (FCL) Shared Container (Groupage)
Dubai / UAE 5-7 weeks 7-10 weeks
Abu Dhabi / UAE 5-7 weeks 7-10 weeks

 

NB: These are approximate sea freight shipping times to ports in 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 the United Arab Emirates take from the UK?

For sending excess baggage or boxes to UAE by air freight allow approximately 3 – 10 days.

international-shipping

How Much Does Shipping to United Arab Emirates Cost from the UK in 2024?

Many expats are regularly travelling between the UK and the UAE so there are many cost-effective shipping options by both air and sea.

PSS’ shipping estimates to UAE from the UK are based upon the best shipping method for sending goods to UAE.

As we have large numbers of customers shipping belongings to UAE every year, we are able to offer very competitive shipping rates.

Typical Shipping Costs from UK to United Arab Emirates in 2024

Wondering how much it costs to ship to the UAE from the UK? You can use the online shipping cost calculators on this page to get an estimate of the shipping costs. We have separate cost calculators for how much it will cost to ship boxes/bags to UAE and for shipping furniture/household to UAE.

Although the cheapest way to ship to the United Arab Emirates is using part-load container shipping, you should consider that many items are more expensive in UAE. When you add up the cost of replacing all your smaller items it is often cheaper to ship a higher volume of goods.

Typical Shipping Costs from the UK to UAE (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

 

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We recommend you use our online shipping cost calculator or speak to one of our consultants for a more accurate estimate.

Some items are also hard to obtain or even unavailable in the UAE.

We calculate part-load shipping rates from the UK to UAE 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 UAE 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 UAE.

Cost of air freight shipping to United Arab Emirates

If you need to send belongings urgently to the UAE, 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 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 UAE

We always aim to provide you with the cheapest shipping cost to UAE. 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 the United Arab Emirates

The surest way to receive an accurate shipping quote for shipping furniture to UAE 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 the United Arab Emirates 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 UAE?

Whether your load requires full or shared container shipping to UAE depends on the quantity or combined dimensions of your items.

Shared Shipping Containers to UAE (Groupage)

For small moves, we load items into a shared shipping container from the UK to UAE 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 UAE

If you have a larger load to send to UAE, our Full Container Load (FCL) shipping option is advantageous, also known as sole-use container shipping to UAE.

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. The cost of container shipping to UAE 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.

Another advantage of having your own sole use shipping container is that it leave immediately on the next available ship bound for UAE. No waiting around for other customers to fill the container and quicker transit times.

Do I Need Marine Shipping Insurance or Shipment Protection Cover to UAE?

It is highly advisable to take out marine shipping insurance or shipment protection cover before you ship your personal effects or household goods to UAE. Although it is doubtful to experience problems when shipping items from the UK to UAE, it is still wise to have shipment protection cover when sending goods overseas, especially for valuable items of significant financial value

PSS 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 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 from 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 Customs Guide for the United Arab Emirates.

What Can/Can't I Ship to United Arab Emirates?

UAE has very strict rules about what can and cannot be imported. We highly recommend you check this carefully and ensure your shipment fully complies with their regulations.

Prohibited Imports into UAE include:

  • Weapons,
  • Firearms (real or ornamental)
  • Ammunition,
  • Fire crackers,
  • 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 animals with 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, machineries and devices of all kinds.
  • E-cigarettes and electronic hookah.
  • Laser pointers.

NB: If any of these items are found in the shipment during the inspection by the UAE Customs, the same will be confiscated and, in some cases, explanation will be asked from the consignees and severe punishment can be imposed including fines or imprisonment.

Restricted Imports into UAE include:

  • Records, tapes, films, photographs, books, magazines, periodicals, 2 wheel hoverboard etc.
  • Live plants, seeds, fresh fruits 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 more information visit the United Arab Emirates Government website.

Your move manager will guide you on what you can and cannot ship to UAE. For further information check out the customs guide for shipping to UAE.

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 UAE.

Accreditations and associations are the best indicators of how trusted a company is within the industry and how safe their services are. PSS’ continued efforts and dedication to shipping to UAE from the UK is 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 UAE 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.

PSS International Shipping Services to United Arab Emirates

We offer a full menu of shipping options to UAE, whether you are sending personal items, furniture, extra boxes, pets or vehicles, our UAE movers have a solution ready and waiting for you:

Shipping Personal Effects to UAE from the UK

Shipping personal effects from the UK to UAE is simple with PSS. We send personal items to UAE 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 the United Arab Emirates

Shipping household goods to UAE 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 the United Arab Emirates.

Our team of experienced international packers will ensure your 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 UAE

Using PSS to ship boxes, luggage, suitcases and excess baggage to UAE cuts out the extortionate charges issued by airline carriers and makes your journey to UAE 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 UAE is an ideal service!

Shipping Boxes to United Arab Emirates from UK

If you only have small items to ship to UAE, 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 UAE

PSS provides a range of international services and shipping options to make car shipping to UAE feasible – regardless of your vehicle. Whether you want to send a car to UAE in a container of its own or alongside personal and household items, our UAE vehicle shipping options make it possible.

In addition to shipping cars, we can assist with shipping all kinds of other vehicles to UAE including motorcycles, bikes and boats.

Shipping Pets, Dogs and Cats to the United Arab Emirates

Pet shipping to UAE 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 UAE. Whether you want to take your cat or dog to UAE, you can entrust PSS and our partners to relocate them safely.

Shipping Parcels and Small Packages to UAE

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 UAE

At PSS International we specialise in shipping to UAE including furniture shipping.

If you wish to ship commercial or non-personal items to UAE then it is best to contact a freight-forwarder.

Express Air Freight and Fast shipping from UK to United Arab Emirates

If you need to ship items to UAE 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 UAE so they can begin work immediately on arrival.

Packing your Items for Shipping to UAE

PSS provides two packing options, the first being a full professional packing service or. if you 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 UAE. 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 UAE.

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 UAE, 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 UAE.

Where in UAE do you ship to?

We ship to all cities in the seven Emirates including:

Shipping to UAE from the uk

  • Abu Dhabi AUH (including Al Ain)
  • Ajman AJM,
  • Dubai DXB,
  • Fujairah FUJ,
  • Ras Al Khaimah RAK,
  • Sharjah SHJ,
  • Umm Al Quwain UAQ
  • Khor Fakkan
  • Ras Al Khaimah

UAE is a hugely popular destination to ship items to from the UK. The country has many attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Miracle Garden, and the good news is that shipping to UAE has never been easier when you use PSS.

PSS has been shipping items to the Middle East for many years. and with our experience and expertise, your delivery service to the UAE will feel straightforward.

What is the Best Way to Send Boxes to The UAE?

Whether you are taking one, a few or even multiple boxes to The UAE 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’ll 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.

  1. Sea Freight: your boxes will be sent in a shared shipping container with other people’s boxes and belongings moving to The UAE. This is the cheapest, but the slowest method.
  2. Air Freight: If you need your belongings to arrive sooner then air freight can be a good option.
  3. 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 The UAE whilst we take care of transporting your boxes.

 

Our partner company in The UAE 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 The UAE?

Average shipping times to the UAE 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 the UAE. Delivery times will vary depending on where in the UAE 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 The UAE 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 The UAE. 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 The UAE?

Yes. Whilst you can buy a specialist bike box, we can provide you with a strong cardboard bike carton for shipping your bicycle to The UAE.

You will need to dismantle some parts of your cycle such as the pedals and ensure it is thoroughly cleaned for UAE customs, but taking your bike with you is very easy.

How to Ship Tools and Ship Toolboxes to The UAE

Our service is perfect for sending your work tools and toolboxes to The UAE. 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.

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