Exporting a car from the UAE can be a smart and profitable decision—thanks to competitive pricing, a wide variety of vehicles, and strong shipping networks. But to ensure a smooth experience, you must check a few critical things before committing to a purchase.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through a checklist every buyer should follow before exporting a car from the UAE.
Before anything else, ensure you’re dealing with a licensed, trustworthy seller or export company.
What to do:
Ask for trade license or RTA registration (especially if it’s a car dealer).
Check Google reviews or social media feedback.
Avoid individuals or companies asking for full upfront payment without any official agreement.
Whether you’re buying in person or remotely, request a full inspection report from a reliable service.
Key things to check:
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) – matches documents.
Odometer reading – ensure it hasn’t been tampered with.
Accident history, rust, engine condition.
Mechanical test report from Tasjeel, Shamil, or ADNOC inspection centers.
💡 Tip: If you’re overseas, hire an independent inspection service or ask for a live video call walkaround.
Not all cars can be exported freely—especially those under finance, blacklisted, or banned in the destination country.
What to check:
Is the car fully paid off and deregistered?
Does it meet the destination country’s import regulations?
Steering position (right/left-hand drive)
Age limit (some countries ban cars older than 5–10 years)
Emission standards (EURO 4/5 compliance)
The following documents must be in order for a successful export:
Original Mulkiya (vehicle registration card)
Valid Export Certificate from RTA or Police
Copy of seller’s Emirates ID or passport
Car insurance cancellation confirmation (if required)
You’ll typically choose between:
Most affordable, only for drivable vehicles.
Ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
Safer, more secure—best for luxury or multiple cars.
More expensive but includes better protection.
Ask for:
Quote with full breakdown (loading, port fees, documentation)
Tracking number
Estimated delivery timeline
Before export, make sure you know how much you’ll pay in taxes and duties once the vehicle arrives.
Examples:
Nigeria: 35% import duty + 5% VAT
Kenya: Based on age, engine size, and CIF value
Ghana: VAT, customs duty, environmental tax
💡 Pro tip: Work with a clearing agent in your country to get exact figures.
Always request a formal invoice or export contract with:
Vehicle details (VIN, model, year)
Buyer & seller info
Payment method
Shipping method
Timeline for export
Avoid verbal agreements or vague WhatsApp promises.
| ✅ What to Check | 🔍 Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Seller credentials | Avoid fraud |
| Vehicle inspection & VIN match | Know the car’s true condition |
| Export eligibility | Comply with laws of both countries |
| Valid documents (Mulkiya, Export Cert) | Required for customs clearance |
| Shipping method & quote | Know your costs upfront |
| Destination country duties | Avoid surprises at the port |
| Written contract | Legal proof and peace of mind |
With the right checks in place, exporting a car from the UAE is a safe and profitable process. Use this guide as your pre-export checklist to avoid delays, extra costs, or legal issues.
Looking for a trusted export partner who handles everything from inspection to shipping?
📩 Contact us today for a free consultation and vehicle quote.
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.
