Most cars exported from Dubai leave through Jebel Ali Port. You have two main options: roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) or a shipping container. Here’s how to choose. Last checked: 21 October 2026.

RoRo (roll-on/roll-off)

The car is driven onto a specialised vessel and driven off at the destination port.

• Pros: usually the cheapest option per car, with frequent sailings to major African ports.
• Cons: you can’t pack personal items in the car, the car is less protected, and not every port has RoRo service.

Container

The car is loaded and secured inside a 20ft or 40ft container (40ft can often take 2–3 cars).

• Pros: better protection, the container is sealed, and it suits high-value cars or multi-car shipments.
• Cons: a higher cost for a single car, plus extra handling and unpacking time at the destination.

Indicative costs and transit

A Dubai exporter’s 2026 guide lists RoRo from Jebel Ali at roughly USD 800–1,200 to Mombasa (7–10 days), USD 900–1,500 to Dar es Salaam (10–14 days), and USD 1,200–1,800 to Lagos (18–22 days) and Tema (20–25 days). A 20ft container costs roughly USD 1,400–2,800 depending on port (source). These are one exporter’s published figures; real quotes vary by vehicle size, season and carrier.

What is usually not included

• UAE export plates and deregistration
• Destination port handling and storage
• Customs clearing agent
• Import duties and taxes
• Inland transport to your city

How to choose

• Standard car, budget focus: RoRo.
• Luxury car or several cars together: container.
• Landlocked destination (e.g. Uganda): ask for a door-to-door quote through Mombasa or Dar es Salaam.
• Insurance: always add marine insurance and read what it covers.

Preparing your car for shipping

• Wash the car and photograph every panel, the odometer and the VIN before handover.
• Remove personal items and aftermarket accessories that could go missing.
• Leave a low fuel level, as your carrier instructs.
• Disable alarms or tell the carrier how to handle keyless entry.
• Keep copies of the bill of lading, invoice and export certificate, and send originals by courier if your agent needs them.

Good preparation reduces disputes at the destination port and speeds up clearing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I put personal items in the car with RoRo?

Generally no. RoRo carriers usually require the car to be empty apart from standard equipment. Containers allow more flexibility, but declare everything.

Is marine insurance included?

Not always. Ask whether the quote includes insurance, what it covers (total loss vs all risks) and the excess.

How do I ship to a landlocked country?

Cars for Uganda or Rwanda usually land at Mombasa or Dar es Salaam and continue overland. Ask for a door-to-door quote and the transit documents needed.

Who arranges shipping, the dealer or me?

Some dealers sell FOB Jebel Ali and expect you to appoint your own forwarder; others arrange shipping for you. Confirm in writing.

How long before the car sails?

Allow time for purchase, export clearance and the next available sailing. Ask your forwarder for current schedules.