Introduction UAE is India's most common international move destination — work transfers, business expansion, family relocation. The 7–14 day sea transit is fast, costs are moderate, and customs is relatively friendly. Here's the complete guide. This guide is written for Indian customers planning a household, office or vehicle move in 2026. We've kept the language simple and the advice practical — based on real moves PackersBazaar.in has helped coordinate across 800+ cities.
Sea vs Air freight Sea (LCL container): 7–14 days, ₹70,000–₹2 lakh for 1 BHK. Sea (FCL 20 ft): 7–14 days, ₹1.5–₹3.5 lakh for 2–3 BHK. Air: 3–5 days, ₹2.5–₹6 lakh — only for urgent/small/high-value shipments. Ports used India: Nhava Sheva (Mumbai), Mundra (Gujarat), Chennai, Cochin. UAE: Jebel Ali (Dubai — most common), Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi), Hamriyah (Sharjah). Choose closest port to origin and destination. Documentation Passport copy, UAE residence visa, packing list (very detailed — every item), commercial invoice, original Bill of Lading, insurance certificate, India customs declaration, UAE customs declaration. UAE customs — duty-free import Used personal effects: duty-free if you have a valid UAE residence visa and goods are clearly personal use. New items: subject to 5% VAT + import duty. Alcohol: restricted (only Dubai allows with permit). Prohibited items Pork products, certain pharmaceuticals, alcohol (without permit), pornography, religious materials of certain types, drones (some types). Customs penalty for prohibited items: confiscation + fine. Declare honestly. Insurance and tracking Marine all-risk insurance: ₹3,000–₹15,000 (0.5–1% of declared value). Most international movers provide tracking via shipping line website + WhatsApp updates. Vehicle shipping (separate) Car can be shipped to UAE but expensive — ₹1.5–₹3 lakh. Plus UAE import duty (5%). Most expats sell India car and buy in UAE — usually cheaper. Recommended movers Use only FIDI-FAIM certified movers for India to UAE. They have direct relationships with UAE customs and clearing agents. Booking via PackersBazaar.in connects you with verified international movers. Conclusion A successful move comes down to three things: planning early, hiring verified movers, and asking the right questions before signing. Use this guide as a starting point and ask our team for free, personalised quotes.
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