United Arab Emirates.
Import with clarity.

This 2026 guide brings together the main eligibility, inspection, documentation, shipping and registration checkpoints for importing a Japanese vehicle to United Arab Emirates. Confirm the current rules with the relevant authority before purchase or shipment.

Yes. Individuals and companies can import new and used vehicles into the UAE. Imported vehicles must pass customs inspection, meet local requirements, and complete registration procedures before being used on UAE roads. Popular reasons buyers import Japanese vehicles include:

• Better auction prices
• High vehicle quality
• Low mileage
• Wide selection of luxury vehicles
• Access to rare models

The UAE drives on the right-hand side of the road, meaning: ✅ Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are preferred and generally accepted for road registration. ⚠ Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles from Japan may face registration restrictions depending on the emirate and vehicle category.

Japanese domestic market vehicles are mostly RHD, so buyers targeting the UAE should carefully verify eligibility before purchasing. For UAE customers, exporters often source:

• European vehicles from Japan
• American vehicles from Japan
• Japanese models manufactured in LHD versions for overseas markets

The UAE does not follow the same age rules as countries such as the USA or Canada. Age restrictions depend on:

• Emirate regulations
• Vehicle category
• Intended use (private, commercial, classic, etc.) Generally:
• Newer vehicles are easier to register.
• Older vehicles may face additional restrictions.
• Classic vehicles may qualify under special conditions. Always confirm the vehicle's eligibility before shipment.

Imported vehicles must undergo inspection before registration. Inspection may check:

• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Chassis condition
• Safety systems
• Brakes
• Lights
• Tyres
• Emissions
• General roadworthiness In Dubai, vehicle registration and testing services are handled through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

When importing a vehicle into the UAE, common charges include: Customs Duty Usually:

• 5% customs duty Calculated based on the customs-assessed value of the vehicle. VAT A 5% VAT may apply depending on the transaction and import circumstances. Additional costs may include:
• Port handling fees
• Customs clearance fees
• Shipping charges
• Insurance
• Vehicle inspection fees
• Registration fees A complete landed-cost calculation should be prepared before purchase.

Typical documents include:

• Original vehicle invoice
• Japanese Export Certificate
• Bill of Lading
• Packing list (if applicable)
• Passport copy
• Emirates ID copy (for residents)
• Customs documents
• Insurance documents Dubai Customs lists documents such as invoice, bill of lading, passport/identification documents for imported vehicles.

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Recommended for:

• Standard passenger cars
• SUVs
• Vans Advantages:
• Lower shipping cost
• Regular sailing schedules
• Simple loading process Container Shipping Recommended for:
• Luxury vehicles
• Classic cars
• High-value vehicles
• Multiple vehicles Advantages:
• Better protection
• Suitable for valuable vehicles

Japanese vehicles commonly arrive through: Jebel Ali Port (Dubai) The largest vehicle import hub in the UAE. Other ports include:

• Abu Dhabi Port
• Sharjah Port
• Khalifa Port Dubai is also an important re-export centre for vehicles heading to:
• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Africa
• Central Asia

1. Select a suitable vehicle from Japan. 2. Confirm UAE import eligibility. 3. Check steering configuration requirements. 4. Purchase the vehicle. 5. Complete Japanese export procedures. 6. Arrange shipping to UAE. 7. Complete customs clearance. 8. Pay customs duties and applicable taxes. 9.

Complete vehicle inspection. 10. Register the vehicle with the relevant authority. 11. Obtain insurance. 12. Receive registration and number plates.

Japanese imports are popular because they offer:

• Excellent maintenance history
• Low mileage
• High specifications
• Competitive prices
• Luxury vehicle availability
• Rare performance models
• Strong resale demand

Can I import a Japanese right-hand-drive car to UAE? Japanese RHD cars require careful checking before purchase because UAE road registration generally favours left-hand-drive vehicles. Confirm eligibility before shipping. Is there an age limit for imported cars?

Age restrictions depend on the vehicle type and emirate regulations. Always verify before purchasing. How much tax do I pay when importing a car? Import costs commonly include approximately 5% customs duty, plus applicable VAT and other charges.

The exact amount depends on customs valuation and current regulations. Can I import luxury cars from Japan? Yes. The UAE is a major destination for Japanese luxury and performance vehicles, including models from Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and other brands. How long does shipping from Japan to UAE take?

Shipping generally takes around 3–6 weeks, depending on the Japanese departure port, shipping company, and UAE arrival port.

At 360 Moto Japan, we support UAE customers with:

• Japanese vehicle sourcing
• Auction bidding assistance
• Vehicle inspection reports
• Export documentation
• Shipping arrangements
• Freight quotations
• Personal Buying Agent services
• Vehicle sourcing for UAE and Middle East markets

The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and is based on regulations available at the time of publication.

Import laws, customs duties, taxes, vehicle eligibility, steering requirements, inspection procedures, shipping requirements, and registration rules may change without prior notice and may vary between different Emirates.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with UAE Customs authorities, the relevant Emirate vehicle registration authority, and other official government agencies before purchasing or importing a vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or error-free and accept no liability for any changes in regulations or additional costs incurred after purchase.