From Tokyo to Dubai: The Rise of Japanese Cars in the UAE

Here are steps to buy Japanese cars in UAE:

1.     Choose Your Car

The first step is to choose a particular Japanese model of cars that you are interested in importing into Dubai. It may be accomplished on the list of respectable Japanese auction services like USS Auction, IAA Japan, Goo-net, or Beforward or via reliable exporters or UAE-based dealers. There is a need to verify that the car is in compliance with GCC standards, which means that it should comply with the safety and emission standards of the Gulf region.

2.     Purchase via Auctioning or Exporting Agent.

The second step after selecting the car is to buy the car, which in most cases is done by auctions where most of Japanese used cars for sale in Dubai are sold. To handle the shipping arrangements a licensed export agent usually has to be involved and the charges are usually between 500 and 800 dollars.

3.     Shipping to the UAE

Once it is purchased, get the car shipped to the UAE either through the Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) method where the car is driven aboard the shipping vessel, at a cost of about 700 to 1000 dollars, or through container shipping which is safer with luxury cars and costs about 1200-1800 dollars. Shipment usually requires three to six weeks based on the schedules and port traffic.

4.     Customs Clearance in Dubai

Once the car reaches a port in the UAE like Jebel Ali or Sharjah, it has to pass the customs then move on. There is a duty of 5% of the value of the car along with a small handling fee imposed by customs authorities and the vehicle is also checked to be roadworthy and to meet GCC specifications.

5.     Registration of Vehicles with RTA

The last thing is to register your imported car with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This involves satisfying the GCC compliance inspection, buying insurance, acquiring number plates and registration fees which are typically between AED 400 and 600.