How to Ship Classic Cars to/from Dubai, UAE?

Dubai is known for its passion for automobiles, especially luxury and vintage models. The city’s global connectivity, advanced infrastructure, and strong demand for collectible vehicles make it a hub for classic car enthusiasts, importers, and collectors. Whether bringing a restored 1965 Mustang into the UAE or exporting a vintage Rolls-Royce from Dubai to Europe, the process involves much more than simply loading the car onto a ship.

Shipping classic cars requires precision, planning, and care. From choosing the right method to navigating customs and insurance, every step matters. This article covers everything you need to know about how to ship classic cars to or from Dubai.

Classic Cars Need Special Handling

Classic cars, typically defined as vehicles more than 20–30 years old, are not just older models—they are pieces of history. Their parts are often rare or irreplaceable, their value can be extremely high, and their condition must be preserved during transport. That’s why shipping them demands extra attention and the right partners.

Exposing these vehicles to moisture, poor handling, or improper packaging can significantly impact their value or even cause irreversible damage. For classic cars, choosing a secure and controlled shipping environment isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Selecting the Ideal Shipping Method for Your Classic Car

When transporting a classic car to or from Dubai, there are two main shipping options to consider. Of these, container shipping is strongly recommended for its superior safety and protection features.

  1. Container Shipping (Top Choice)

This method involves securely placing your vehicle inside a sealed 20-foot or 40-foot container. It’s the preferred option for classic and high-value cars due to the excellent protection it offers throughout the journey.

Advantages of Container Shipping:

  • Shields the car from weather, dust, saltwater, and other environmental damage
  • Allows you to include spare parts and personal belongings in the container
  • Ideal for high-value, vintage, or fragile vehicles
  • Offers enhanced security during extended or overseas transit

If you’re shipping a single classic car, a 20-foot container is usually sufficient. However, for transporting multiple vehicles or if you’re including additional parts and accessories, a 40-foot container is the better choice.

  1. Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

Ro-Ro shipping involves driving your vehicle directly onto a ship, where it is parked and secured for the journey. Although this method is more affordable, it is not well-suited for classic cars due to limited protection.

Drawbacks of Ro-Ro Shipping for Classic Cars:

  • The vehicle remains exposed to harsh weather, including wind, rain, and salty sea air.
  • Personal belongings or spare parts cannot be stored inside the vehicle.
  • Offers minimal security compared to enclosed containers
  • Only available for vehicles in working condition that can be driven on and off the vessel

Ro-Ro shipping is best for budget-conscious transport of standard, running vehicles—but when it comes to valuable classic cars, it falls short in terms of safety and care.

Required Documents for Classic Car Shipping

Shipping a classic car to or from Dubai requires careful attention to documentation, as errors or missing papers can lead to customs delays, fines, or even vehicle seizure. Key documents include the vehicle’s title and registration, along with a valid passport and Emirates ID for UAE residents. A bill of lading from the shipping company and a commercial invoice or sale agreement outlining the car’s value and transaction details are also necessary. Depending on the destination, a certificate of origin may be required to verify the car’s manufacturing country. Insurance documents are essential to cover any potential damage during transit, and a vehicle inspection report should be prepared to document the car’s condition before shipping. For vehicles leaving Dubai, an RTA Export Certificate is mandatory, while cars being imported into the UAE must have a Dubai Customs Import Permit. All documents must be properly completed, signed, stamped, and translated into English or Arabic if needed, ensuring a smooth and compliant shipping process.

Dubai Customs for Classic Car Shipping

Classic cars in Dubai follow specific customs rules. Vehicles over 30 years old may be classified as classics after RTA inspection. Imports are subject to a 5% duty on the CIF value and an additional 5% VAT. The car must meet GCC safety and emission standards unless registered as a classic.

For exports, an RTA Export Certificate is required, and the vehicle must clear Dubai Customs. Check the destination country’s rules—some, like the USA and UK, have special allowances for classic vehicles over 25–30 years old.

Planning Your Classic Car for Shipping

Getting your classic car prepared for transport is a vital step to guarantee it arrives in culminate condition. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the vehicle, including the undercarriage, to assist with assessment and documentation. Take clear, high-quality photographs from all points to record the car’s condition some time recently shipping; this will be valuable for protection claims in case they are required. Cripple the caution framework and evacuate all individual things from the insides, as they are not permitted amid shipping.

Next, get the car ready mechanically. Decrease the fuel level to approximately a quarter of the tank to meet security directions, and guarantee the battery is completely charged and safely mounted. Any free parts, such as receiving wires, mirrors, or spoilers, ought to be expelled or firmly secured. Wrap delicate regions or fragile highlights with bubble wrap or foam for added assurance during transit.

For high-value or uncommon classic cars, consider enlisting a professional to handle pre-shipping specifying and holder bracing. This guarantees the car is legitimately bolstered and has a padded interior, diminishing the chance of harm during long-distance transport. Taking these additional safeguards will offer assistance to ensure a secure and stress-free shipping experience.

Shipping Protection, Choosing the Right Partner, and Final Tips

When shipping a classic car internationally, marine insurance is essential. Due to the high value and irreplaceable nature of classic vehicles, comprehensive coverage—particularly all-risk insurance—is strongly recommended. This type of policy typically covers most forms of damage during transit and is calculated based on the car’s declared value. You can arrange coverage through your shipping agent or a third-party insurer, but it’s important to review the policy terms carefully and understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.

Choosing the right car shipping company is just as important. Look for providers with experience in transporting classic or luxury vehicles and offering services such as door-to-door or port-to-door delivery, customs clearance assistance, vehicle tracking. Support with marine insurance is also a valuable bonus. Reputable companies in Dubai include Reef Movers, Al Fares Cargo, and SGT Auto Transport. Always ask for references or client reviews before making your final decision.

Shipping timeframes and costs vary depending on destination and shipping method. On average, shipping from Dubai to Europe takes 3–5 weeks, to the USA or Canada 5–7 weeks, and to GCC countries 1–2 weeks. Container shipping typically costs between AED 8,000 and AED 15,000 for a 20-foot container, while Ro-Ro shipping ranges from AED 4,000 to AED 7,000. Prices can vary based on vehicle size, service level, and insurance. In the end, shipping a classic car is a careful and detailed process, but with proper planning and a reliable logistics partner, your vehicle can arrive safely—preserving its beauty, value, and legacy for years to come.