Last updated: 22 October 2026

Dubai is one of the most popular destinations for Britons moving abroad for work, and one of the UK’s busiest trade routes. Whether you are relocating, exporting goods or sending a car, almost everything travels by sea to Jebel Ali, one of the largest container ports in the world. Here is how shipping to Dubai from the UK works.

Route and transit time

Ships leave Felixstowe, Southampton and London Gateway and normally sail through the Mediterranean, the Suez Canal and the Red Sea to the Arabian Gulf. When Red Sea routes are disrupted, ships go around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope, which adds time.

Ways to ship to Dubai

Moving to Dubai from the UK: what to ship

Many people moving to Dubai rent furnished apartments and ship only personal items. Others take a full container for a family villa. Consider these points:

• Appliances: the UAE uses the same plug type (G) and voltage as the UK, so UK electricals work.
• Furniture: large furniture is widely available locally, often at good prices.
• Climate: most of your heavy winter wardrobe can stay behind.

For a full move, see our international removals guide.

Customs rules

• Used household goods are usually duty-free for new residents, with a residence visa, passport copy and a detailed inventory.
• Prohibited and restricted items include some medicines (even if prescribed in the UK, codeine-based painkillers can be restricted), e-cigarette products above set limits, materials considered offensive, and pork and alcohol in commercial quantities. Always check current UAE rules.
• Commercial goods usually have customs duty applied to their value, plus 5% VAT.

Shipping a car to Dubai from the UK

UK right-hand-drive cars can generally be imported into the UAE but cannot usually be registered for road use, as the UAE drives on the right. Most people sell their UK car and buy locally. Classic and collector cars are sometimes imported for display or special registration. Get specialist advice first.

Costs to expect

• Ocean freight: varies with the market and fuel prices
• UK origin charges: collection, export customs, terminal handling
• Dubai charges: port fees, customs clearance and delivery
• Insurance: usually 1–3% of the declared value for household goods

Can you travel to Dubai by ship?

Cruise lines reposition ships to the Gulf for the winter season, and some voyages leave from Southampton. Container ships on Europe–Middle East routes have occasionally carried passengers. Read about repositioning cruises e freighter travel from the UK.

Frequently asked questions