IMPORTING A LAND ROVER TO ABU DHABI

[Shackleton]

Hi,

I am looking for advice on importing a Land Rover Defender. You might wonder why, but the reason is that it is an expedition equipped vehicle with all the fittings eg water tank, roof tent, winch, raised suspension etc etc and I want to use it for expeditions, camping weekends etc in UAE and Oman. I am coming to Abu Dhabi at the end of the year. Does anyone have any advice on importing it? It is a 1995 300Tdi, but in good condition (see attached photo).

Regards, Carew

[dared]

Hi Carew, Its indeed a well done expedition vehicle. Generally speaking about the sea imports it should cost around 4k USD for 20 feet container and 7k USD for 40 feet container for 1-2 days sea route. You didn't mentioned that you are importing from which country as this cost depends on that quite a lot. Best is to check with local cargo companies here in UAE. I have googled two, you can check with more: http://www.deepseaemirates.com/index.htm and http://www.rainbowcargollc.com/

Directory listing for sea cargo services: http://www.uae-business-directory.com/directory/dubai/dubai/sea-cargo-services.html

[burn_e]

Well, the good news is, that this is really a nicely equipped Defender.

The bad news is it seems to be Right hand drive. not good at all.

Lately there is zero chance of getting RHD vehicles registered anywhere in UAE. it has to reach the shore LHD or no registration.

Sorry for the party poop.

[Shackleton]

Thanks to both of you for your replies. As well as the RHD issue, I have now also heard that any vehilce to be imported must be less than 5 years old. Does anyone know if this is true? My Defender is a bit older - a 1995 model so 18 years old!

[lrgeek]

Maximum age limit of vehicle to import in UAE and Oman is no limit, however in other GCC countries like Saudi, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait is maximum 5 years old. Hope you are aware that importing tax is 5% of the car present value paid to the Dubai customs. I am not sure about any restriction on RHD, better write a detail mail to RTA (www.rta.ae) road and transport authority of Dubai and check from the real people if there is new law on said restrictions. I am saying this as many times, new law rumors comes 6 months - 2 years prior and in end law never get passed or get delayed. SO its good to check before you drop your idea.

Regarding defender (as a one strong exception), every time i go to sharjah I see some japanese import (late 90's) defender and even the RHD sometimes, Sharjah is a neighboring state to Dubai for good and cheaper car fixing alternates. I am sure when you will visit Sharjah industrial area with your ride, you will love it. Good luck.

[myolford]

I have been down this route with the RTA, this is there response via email

I was and still am planning to bring my classic range rover over here.

Respected Sir / Madam,

Thank you for contacting Abu Dhabi Contact Center.

The Resolution Response to your case# 100-728335 is as follows:

Please note that in order to import a right hand car you will need to have it inspected, insured and complete the process in the Customs. There is no restriction regarding the car model.

Please note that the procedures for importation of classic vehicles are as follows: 1. Preview and vehicle matching the standard specifications of the UAE. 2. In the case of the declared value of appropriate invoices are resorting to an estimation of the value and levied customs duties accordingly. 3. Payment of customs duties by 5% of the customs value estimated. 4. Ensure the entry into force of the validity of residence document to the importer, if not nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf. 5. After payment of customs duties granted customs vehicle registration certificate for the Traffic Department. 6. If the car is not on behalf of the importer must attach valid agency gives its holder the right to dispose of them and clearance. With a multitude of respect and appreciation

Importing a vehicle to UAE:

• Original invoice, original certificate of origin for new vehicles only.

• Certificate of vehicle matching the standard specifications of the United Arab Emirates.

• Payment of customs duties 5 present (include the value of the vehicle, freight and insurance).

• The validity of the residence document of the importer, if the importer is non-citizens of Arab Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

• If the vehicle is not under the owner’s name then a Power of Attorney is required to authorize the importer to process on behalf of the owner.

• After paying the fee the Customs grant a vehicle registration certificate to present it to the Traffic Department.

• Valid vehicle insurance certificate.