Shipping a Car From the USA to the UAE and the Gulf: What to Know
US cars are popular across the Gulf — the specification is close and the choice is huge. Here is how shipping, duty and registration work.
American SUVs, pickups and performance cars have a long history in the Gulf. The US market offers a much wider choice of trims and much lower prices on nearly new and auction cars. Shipping from the US East Coast to Jebel Ali or Jeddah is routine for us.
Ports and transit times
- UAE: Jebel Ali (Dubai) and Khalifa Port (Abu Dhabi) — around 28–38 days at sea, 6–8 weeks door to door.
- Saudi Arabia: Jeddah Islamic Port and Dammam — around 30–40 days at sea.
- Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman are served via Hamad, Shuwaikh, Khalifa Bin Salman and Sohar or via Jebel Ali transshipment.
Customs duty and VAT
GCC countries apply a common customs duty of 5% on the CIF value of most passenger cars. VAT is 5% in the UAE and Oman, 10% in Bahrain and 15% in Saudi Arabia; Qatar and Kuwait do not currently charge VAT. Some countries also charge registration and inspection fees. Our country pages list the current figures.
GCC specification vs US specification
US-spec cars are generally accepted, but there are practical differences: cooling systems, speedometer units and some safety equipment. Most imported US cars are registered without issues after inspection, but check the rules for your emirate or country, especially for older vehicles.
Age and condition rules
Several Gulf states limit the age of imported vehicles and restrict salvage or heavily damaged cars. Rules change, so we confirm them for every purchase. Classic and collector cars often have separate procedures.
Documents
- Original title or export certificate;
- Bill of sale / invoice;
- US export declaration;
- Bill of lading and insurance certificate;
- Certificate of origin when requested.
Air freight for exclusive cars
For hypercars and time-critical deliveries we arrange air freight — 4–7 days door to door to the UAE. See exclusive cars for how we handle discreet purchases and enclosed transport.
Get a quote
Send us the car you want or a lot number from our inventory. We will confirm eligibility for your country and give you a full landed-cost estimate in writing.