Moving To UAE from the US
Moving to the United Arab Emirates from the USA is an exciting and life-changing transition. With Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering numerous career opportunities to Americans, it’s a chance to embark on a new adventure. One of the key attractions is the tax-free environment for earnings and income, which can significantly improve your financial situation and provide a comfortable retirement.
At SDC International Shipping, we specialize in assisting individuals like you with their relocation to the UAE. With nearly ten years of experience, we have successfully facilitated hundreds of moves to various cities across the UAE. When you choose us, you can trust that our moving process is meticulously designed to be hassle-free, ensuring your utmost satisfaction.
Your Comprehensive Guide to International Moving
Preparing for an international move can be overwhelming, but with our expert guidance, you’ll be well-prepared. We have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the entire process smoothly. From packing tips to customs regulations, our guide covers all the essential information you need for a successful international relocation.
Moving Household Goods to the UAE
If you are considering a move to the UAE for a year or two, it’s natural to want to bring along some personal belongings. When it comes to shipping your household goods, there are two primary methods to choose from: air freight and sea freight.
Air Freight: If speed is your priority, air freight is the fastest option available. Cargo planes can deliver your belongings to any destination in the UAE within a mere two or three days. However, it’s important to note that air freight is generally more expensive compared to other shipping methods.
Sea Freight: On the other hand, sea freight offers a more cost-effective solution. While it may take longer, typically around 5-7 weeks, sea freight is approximately four times cheaper than air freight.
If you decide to go with sea freight, your household goods will be loaded into either a 20ft or a 40ft container, depending on the volume of items you plan to bring. The container size and dimensions are determined by the number of belongings you have. For shipments with a total volume of less than 15 cubic meters, you have the option of a consolidated shipment. This means your belongings will be placed in a shared container with other individuals, known as Less than Container Load (LCL). However, if the total volume of your shipment exceeds 15 cubic meters, your belongings will require a dedicated container, known as a Full Container Load (FCL). You can find more detailed information about container dimensions here.
As your trusted international mover, we offer a comprehensive door-to-door service. This includes professional packing services, ensuring the safe transport of your household goods from your home address in the US to your new address in the UAE.
Customs Clearance in the UAE
Navigating customs procedures can often be a source of stress, but with our experienced shipping experts by your side, the process becomes much smoother. Rest assured, the customs clearance process in the UAE is relatively straightforward. At SDC International Shipping, we will guide you every step of the way.
Creating an accurate inventory of the items you are sending to the UAE is crucial. Customs officers may inspect your shipment, including opening boxes and verifying the contents. To ensure a hassle-free clearance, it is essential that each item in your shipment is included in the inventory list, along with the required descriptions.
To enjoy duty-free importation, there are a few requirements to meet. Firstly, the items you are bringing must be used. Additionally, your shipment must arrive within six months of obtaining your UAE residence permit. If these conditions are not met, any new household items may be subject to duty and taxes.
Note: If you are already a resident of the AGCC countries, you may not require a UAE residence visa for customs clearance.
Ports in the UAE We Ship To
When you choose SDC International Shipping as your trusted partner, your shipment will be delivered to one of the major ports in the UAE. We primarily serve two key ports in the region:
Port of Jebel Ali, Dubai: As the largest and busiest commercial port in the UAE and the entire Middle East, the Port of Jebel Ali in Dubai is a vital hub for international trade. Its strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities ensure the efficient handling of shipments.
These ports serve as gateways to the UAE, connecting it to various parts of the world and enabling seamless transportation of goods.
Settling in Dubai or Abu Dhabi
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are highly sought-after destinations for Americans considering a move to the UAE. These cities offer vibrant expat communities and a wealth of opportunities. Here’s what makes each city unique:
Dubai: Known for its iconic skyline and luxurious lifestyle, Dubai is a bustling metropolis that attracts people from all over the world. The city offers a diverse range of career prospects across various industries, including finance, technology, tourism, and more. With its cosmopolitan ambiance, world-class infrastructure, and vibrant social scene, Dubai provides a truly international experience.
Abu Dhabi: As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi combines a rich cultural heritage with modern amenities and infrastructure. The city offers a more relaxed and traditional atmosphere compared to Dubai. Abu Dhabi is known for its emphasis on family values, quality education, and world-class healthcare facilities. Expats seeking a balance between tradition and progress find Abu Dhabi an attractive destination.
At SDC International Shipping, we understand the unique needs of Americans relocating to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Our expertise in international moves to these cities ensures a smooth transition and a seamless delivery of your belongings to your new home. We provide comprehensive relocation services tailored to your specific requirements, ensuring that your move is stress-free and enjoyable.
SDC UAE Car Shipping Service
As of January 2024, shipping a car to the UAE requires a valid UAE residence visa. Additionally, import duties of 5% and a value-added tax (VAT) of 5% are applicable. The vehicle must be less than 10 years old, and specific documentation, such as the original invoice of the car, certificate of origin, passport, visa, and driving license, is required for the import process. The vehicle must also be left-hand drive unless traveling on a temporary basis with a carnet de passage. It’s important to ensure that the vehicle is compliant with local laws and that all necessary paperwork is in place before the shipment arrives at the port.
At SDC International Shipping, you’ll be offered various shipping options: Each transportation method has pros and cons. Our logistics experts can help you decide the one appropriate for your situation.
If you have more questions, for example, about car shipping costs or others, please contact us today or fill out an online quote form.
Moving to the UAE and Marine Insurance
When relocating to the UAE, it is recommended to consider marine insurance for your household items, especially for sensitive shipments such as pianos and artwork. At SDC International Shipping, we prioritize the safety and protection of your belongings.
We offer two types of marine insurance policies:
1. All Risk Policy: This policy provides comprehensive coverage and protects against damage, loss, fire, and breakages during transport to the port, while your personal belongings or vehicle are in the ocean, and upon arrival at the receiving terminal. It offers the highest level of protection for your valuable items.
2. Total Loss Policy: This policy covers the risk of total loss of your shipment. While it offers a more limited scope of coverage compared to the All Risk policy, it still provides essential protection in the event of a complete loss during transport.
As your trusted global mover, we are well-versed in international regulations and understand the importance of providing the necessary coverage for your international relocation. Our experienced team will guide you in selecting the appropriate marine insurance policy to ensure security and peace of mind throughout the entire shipping process.
Why Moving to The UAE from the USA With SDC
What Other Clients Have Found “That was beyond our expectations…thank you!!! 5 guys arrived to do all the uploading, which was so unbelievably quickly. Nothing looked broken when we got our belongings, so I guess the packers did a great job. All good, thanks again, and please thank everyone involved.” – Alicia K.
