Importing a Japanese vehicle to United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪

The UAE drives on the right and only registers left-hand-drive vehicles. The majority of Japan's domestic stock is RHD, which limits what we can offer for UAE buyers, but a healthy LHD market exists for re-exported GCC-spec units, USDM imports, and specific Japanese export-spec models.

We pre-filter UAE-bound inquiries for LHD availability before quoting. If you're flexible on country of origin, we can also source LHD Lexus, Land Cruiser and Patrol from US or Gulf channels on top of pure-Japan stock.

Yokohama to Jebel Ali via Singapore or direct runs 14–18 days. RoRo is cheapest for one unit. For multiple vehicles or high-value classics we use 40ft containers, that lets us load 4–6 sedans together and protects against weather and yard handling.

Sharjah port (south of Dubai) is an alternative discharge for smaller vessels and is closer to our office, but Jebel Ali handles the vast majority of GCC-bound RoRo capacity.

UAE customs duty is a flat 5% of CIF value, one of the lowest in the region. VAT (5%) is added at registration, not customs. For an individual buyer importing a single personal-use vehicle, this is straightforward and we can guide your clearing agent through it.

For commercial imports or re-export to other GCC states, free-zone arrangements via Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) can defer duty entirely until the vehicle leaves the zone.

Every imported vehicle must pass an RTA technical inspection before it can be plated. The inspection covers safety, emissions, odometer, and visible damage. Our Sharjah team can accompany you to Tasjeel (the RTA inspection centre) to translate paperwork.

Documents required: Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, export certificate (we provide a notarised English translation), customs clearance receipt, and your Emirates ID.

UAE buyers often prefer to come in person, see the vehicle, collect documents, and head to Tasjeel in one trip. Our Sharjah office handles in-person handovers Sunday–Thursday. Walk-ins welcome, though it helps to email info@irnippon.com ahead so we have your file ready.