The UAE is one of the world’s top hubs for car exports, offering buyers access to well-maintained vehicles at competitive prices. However, whether you’re a dealer or an individual buyer, there are certain risks involved when purchasing cars for export—especially if you’re buying remotely.
In this smart buyer’s guide, we’ll show you how to reduce risk and make safe, informed decisions when exporting vehicles from the UAE in 2025.
Due to the large number of private sellers, online marketplaces, and export agents, buyers from overseas may face issues such as:
Misrepresentation of vehicle condition
Hidden damages or accident history
Fake documentation
Delays or fraud in shipping and paperwork
Unexpected taxes or customs issues in the destination country
But the good news is: these risks can be avoided with the right precautions.
Before you send any money or make commitments:
Ask for the company’s trade license
Verify their online presence and reviews
Check if they are registered with the RTA (Dubai), Abu Dhabi Police, or a known auto zone (like Al Aweer)
💡 Red Flag: Anyone asking for full upfront payment via unofficial channels like WhatsApp or Western Union.
Even clean-looking vehicles may have underlying issues or a hidden accident history.
Make sure to:
Request a recent RTA-approved technical inspection report
Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to verify mileage and chassis authenticity
Ask for underbody photos and engine bay close-ups
💡 Tip: If buying remotely, arrange a third-party inspection service in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Not every car is eligible for export due to financing status or restrictions in the buyer’s country.
Check for:
Loan Clearance: Ensure the car is not under finance
Export Certificate: Must be issued by RTA or Abu Dhabi Police
Destination Country Rules: Some countries ban cars older than a certain age or require specific emission standards
Never send full payment blindly to someone you haven’t verified.
Safer alternatives include:
Partial upfront deposit with the remaining balance after shipping confirmation
Bank transfer to a registered business account
Escrow services for high-value purchases
Many risks arise from miscommunication or unclear agreements.
Make sure to ask for:
A written invoice or proforma detailing all charges
Estimated shipping time, method (RoRo or container), and port of arrival
Any hidden fees (e.g., customs clearing, inspection charges)
💡 Smart Move: Request a full cost breakdown before committing.
Once shipped, your exporter should provide a Bill of Lading and tracking number.
You should receive:
Copy of export certificate
Shipping details (RoRo vessel name or container ID)
Estimated delivery timeline and port clearance procedure
Many buyers forget that costs don’t end after shipping.
Make sure you:
Know your destination country’s import duty structure
Hire a licensed clearing agent for customs
Have all documents in hand: Invoice, Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, and Inspection Report
| ✅ What to Do | ❌ What to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Buy from licensed exporters | Dealing with individuals on social media |
| Request official inspection reports | Trusting photos only |
| Pay through secure channels | Sending money via Western Union/crypto |
| Confirm export eligibility | Assuming any car can be exported |
| Track your shipment | Relying on verbal updates only |
Buying cars for export from the UAE can be a highly profitable and smooth experience—if you follow the right precautions. Always do your homework, verify your sources, and never rush through the process.
Looking for a trusted, transparent exporter in the UAE?
📩 Contact us today for expert help, full documentation, and secure shipping solutions.
Alkady Cars are located in the heart of Dubai’s automobile trading, the Al Aweer Auto Market. At Alkady Cars we hold a distinguished inventory of the leading luxury and best offers for new cars as well as UAE’s favorite brands and models.
