Richard Crowther, of Clark & Rose, answers some frequently asked questions about the practical aspects of relocating to the United Arab Emirates.

Approximately how long does it take to arrange a move to the UAE?

From a moving company’s perspective, a move can be organised in five to seven days, depending on the time of year. In the summer months, a lead time of two to three weeks may be necessary. Whatever the timeframe, you’ll find that most moving companies will do their utmost to accommodate your requirements.

What documentation is required?

• Work visa, or letter of invitation
• Copy of passport
• Packing inventory
• Bill of lading
• Insurance policy

All FIDI agents will be able to supply a country profile and customs regulations tailored to the relocatee’s personal circumstances.

Is customs duty payable on household goods shipped into the UAE?

Used personal effects and household goods are exempt from customs duty, but new goods are not. If an invoice is not provided for a new item, customs officials will assess the item’s value and levy a charge of 5% of this assessed value.

What items should be taken to the UAE?

What to take to the UAE and what to leave at home, or in storage, is a difficult question; so much depends on where the posting is to and the size and type of accommodation the assignee and his or her family are moving to. The excellent local knowledge and contacts of most removals companies mean that they are well placed to offer advice on what to consider taking and what to leave behind.

What items cannot be shipped into the region?

Forbidden items include weapons, firearms, ammunition, firecrackers, swords, daggers, military uniforms, alcohol, narcotics (including poppy seeds), radio transmitters and communications equipment, banned drugs and medicines, and large quantities of any medicines, even when these have been prescribed for the consignee’s own use. 

Importing any of the above can result in fines and a jail term.

Are there any restrictions on the import of food and drink?

Alcohol must not be imported into the UAE. We strongly recommend that no foodstuffs be imported, owing to the current bioterrorism restrictions in place worldwide.

Is the import of books, CDs and DVDs restricted?

Religious books (except ones about Islam) and controversial political literature must not be imported into the UAE. Pornography and images depicting nudity are also banned. Records, tapes, films, photographs, books and magazines all fall under this legislation.

What voltage is used in the UAE?

The voltage used is 220V. Most sockets are three-pin. Adapters for two-pin plugs are available at most hotels. 

Can I take my pet to the UAE?

Provided the necessary paperwork, including a health certificate, is in place, pets can be imported into the UAE.

Have you any other tips for those relocating to this part of the world?

We always recommend choosing a FIDI-FAIM approved moving company, as this ensures a high standard of service accompanied by a knowledge base that will guarantee that the moving process is handled with the utmost professionalism.

Clark & Rose is a long-established international removals business. Headquartered in Aberdeen, it has many years’ experience of working with companies in the oil industry to relocate employees to the Middle  East.