Moving to the UAE from the UK – The Complete Reloux® Guide to Removals, Shipping & Relocation

Are you planning to move to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, Reloux® International Moving Company offers professional, stress-free removals to UAE, covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

From full-load containers to part-load shared shipments, Reloux® provides door-to-door international removals UK to UAE, including export packing, shipping, customs clearance, and delivery to residence — all handled by our expert global logistics team.

Moving to the UAE with reloux

Why Move to the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates is one of the world’s most popular destinations for expats from the UK — combining sunshine, safety, tax-free income, and world-class infrastructure.Dubai and Abu Dhabi are global hubs for business and lifestyle, while Sharjah and Al Ain offer quieter family-friendly living.

People move to the UAE for:

• Excellent career opportunities

• Modern lifestyle and safety

• Tax-free salaries

• Luxury housing and infrastructure

• International schools and healthcare

• Easy connectivity to Europe and Asia

Shipping from UK to UAE – How It Works

Reloux® provides both part-load (groupage) and full-container (FCL) shipping services to the UAE.Depending on your needs, we’ll arrange the best transport method for your timeline and budget.

1. Part-Load Removals to UAEPerfect for smaller moves — your goods are consolidated with other shipments, making it cost-effective. Transit time: 4–8 weeks (depending on schedules).

2. Full-Load Container (20ft / 40ft)Ideal for full households or large shipments. Sole-use container directly shipped to your UAE residence. Transit time: 3–5 weeks (depending on customs).

3. Air Freight to UAEBest for urgent moves or personal effects. Delivery in 7–14 days, subject to customs inspection.

4. Packing & InventoryOur trained packers prepare your goods for sea or air transit, ensuring compliance with UAE import regulations.

Shipping Destinations Covered by Reloux®

Reloux® offers removals and shipping services to every major UAE city:

• Removals to Dubai

• Removals to Abu Dhabi

• Removals to Sharjah

• Removals to Al Ain

• Removals to Ajman

• Removals to Fujairah

• Removals to Ras Al Khaimah

• Removals to Umm Al Quwain

Wherever you’re headed, our UAE operations and local partners ensure your shipment arrives safely and on time.

Required Documents for Moving to UAE

When moving household goods to the UAE, you’ll need to provide a few key documents for customs clearance. Reloux® assists you in preparing these forms correctly.

Documents Required:

• Passport copy (photo and visa pages)

• UAE Residence Visa or Entry Permit

• Detailed packing list / inventory

• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill

• Reloux® shipping documents

• Proof of ownership or residence

• Certificate of Transfer of Residence (if applicable)

Items Restricted or Prohibited in the UAE

Certain items are restricted from import to the UAE. Reloux® ensures your shipment complies with local laws to avoid customs delays.

Prohibited items include:

• Alcohol, e-cigarettes, or vape liquids

• Pork or food products without clearance

• Firearms, ammunition, or replicas

• Religious or political materials

• Drugs, medicines without prescription

• Pornographic or offensive materials

• Plants and soil (restricted import)

Cost of Removals to UAE from the UK

The cost of moving to the UAE depends on volume, destination, and service type.Typical prices for UK to UAE removals are:

Service Type	Approximate Cost	Transit Time
Part-load (shared container)	£1,300 – £2,500	7–12 weeks
20ft sole-use container	£5,500 – £6,500	6–9 weeks
40ft container	£5,800 – £7,900	6–9 weeks
Air freight shipments	£2,500 – £3,500 +	7–14 days

All Reloux® quotations include collection, export packing, shipping, delivery, and customs clearance.You’ll receive a detailed written quote before booking — no hidden fees.

Reloux® International Moving Company removals to UAE, covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, Ajman, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Living in the UAE – Quick Guide

• Language: Arabic (English widely spoken)

• Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)

• Climate: Hot desert climate – up to 45°C in summer

• Tax: 0% income tax for individuals

• Driving: UK licence accepted (convert after residency)

• Healthcare: Excellent hospitals & private insurance required

• Education: Wide range of international schools

Why Choose Reloux® for Your Move to the UAE

• Specialists in international removals UK to UAE

• Dedicated relocation coordinators for every move

• Professional export packing with premium materials

• Customs expertise for UAE regulations

• Global coverage & reliable delivery

• Transparent quotes & no hidden costs

• Fully insured, accredited, and trusted by expats worldwide

Reloux® isn’t just a moving company — we’re your trusted partner for relocation to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to the UAE Guide

1. What visa do I need to live in the UAE?You’ll need a residency or work visa sponsored by your employer, company, or family. Reloux® can guide you on required paperwork.

2. How much does it cost to move to Dubai from the UK?The average cost for a 2–3-bedroom home ranges between £3,000 and £6,000, depending on volume and service.

3. Can I ship my furniture and car together?Yes, Reloux® can arrange a combined shipment with proper customs documentation.

4. How long does shipping to the UAE take?Sea freight typically takes 4–6 weeks; air freight 7–14 days.

5. Do I pay customs duty on used household goods?Personal effects are usually duty-free if owned for 6 months + and used.

6. Can I bring my pets to the UAE?Yes, but pets must meet UAE import and vaccination rules. Reloux® partners with certified pet relocation agencies.

7. Are my goods insured during shipping?Yes — we offer full marine and transit insurance for all UAE moves.

8. Do you provide storage before shipping?Yes, Reloux® offers short- and long-term storage in our UK warehouses.

9. Can Reloux® deliver anywhere in the UAE?Absolutely. We deliver to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, and all other emirates.

10. How do I get a quote for moving to the UAE?Simply contact Reloux® for a free video survey or home visit. You’ll receive a detailed quote the same day.

General Questions About Moving to the UAE

1. What do I need to know before moving to the UAE?

The UAE offers a safe, modern, and cosmopolitan lifestyle, but planning is key. Understand visa requirements, local customs, climate, and costs before you move. Reloux® can advise on shipping, customs paperwork, and recommended timing to ensure a smooth transition.

2. Is it easy for British citizens to move to the UAE?

Yes. British nationals enjoy strong entry privileges, and most employment sponsors arrange residency. Reloux® regularly assists UK clients relocating to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates with compliant documentation and shipping arrangements.

3. How long does it take to move to the UAE from the UK?

Sea-freight shipments typically take 4 – 6 weeks door-to-door; air freight arrives within 7 – 14 days. Timelines depend on volume, port schedules, and customs clearance. Reloux® provides estimated ETAs before collection.

4. Is it expensive to relocate to the UAE?

Moving costs vary by volume and service type. Typical UK → UAE removals range from £1,300 – £7,900. Reloux® offers transparent quotations that include packing, shipping, customs, and delivery – no hidden fees.

5. What is life like for expats in the UAE?

Life is vibrant, secure, and well-organised. Expats enjoy tax-free income, world-class facilities, and year-round sunshine. The lifestyle is modern yet respectful of Islamic culture. Reloux® clients often highlight Dubai’s convenience and Abu Dhabi’s family-friendly pace.

6. Can I move to the UAE without a job?

Yes, but you’ll need sufficient funds and a valid visa. Many newcomers arrive on visit visas while seeking work. Reloux® recommends arranging employment or sponsorship in advance for a smoother relocation.

7. What are the pros and cons of moving to the UAE?

Pros: tax-free salaries, safety, sunshine, excellent infrastructure.Cons: hot summers, strict laws, high rent in popular areas.Reloux® can assist with relocation planning to balance costs and comfort.

8. What documents do I need to move to the UAE?

Essential documents include your passport, visa or entry permit, detailed inventory, and proof of residence. Reloux® provides all shipping paperwork and liaises directly with customs to simplify the process.

9. What are the main differences between living in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

Dubai is faster-paced and business-driven; Abu Dhabi is calmer and more residential. Reloux® serves both cities regularly and can advise on delivery access, housing types, and local regulations for each emirate.

10. What should I pack when moving to the UAE?

Pack light, climate-appropriate clothing, and personal essentials. Avoid prohibited items like alcohol or pork products. Reloux®’s professional packing team can crate furniture, artwork, and valuables safely for export.

11. Can I ship my furniture and household goods to the UAE?

Absolutely. Reloux® ships complete households from the UK to all UAE cities using secure sea or air freight. We handle export packing, customs, and delivery inside your new home.

12. Is it worth moving to Dubai from the UK?

For most expats, yes. Dubai offers exceptional lifestyle benefits, safety, and tax advantages. Reloux® supports hundreds of UK families moving to Dubai each year with full door-to-door relocation.

13. How do I plan an international move to the UAE?

Start by booking a free Reloux® video survey to assess your volume. We’ll provide a written quotation, guide you through paperwork, and schedule collection, shipping, and delivery in one seamless process.

14. How long does customs clearance take in the UAE?

Usually 3 – 5 working days, provided documents are correct. Reloux® coordinates directly with port and customs authorities to ensure clearance is completed quickly and efficiently.

15. What is the best time of year to move to the UAE?

The cooler months, October – March, are ideal for relocation. Summer temperatures can exceed 45 °C, so Reloux® recommends scheduling packing and delivery during milder periods when possible.