Bringing Cars From Dubai To Bahrain: What You Need To Know

Shipping a car from Dubai to Bahrain is possible, but there are several steps to the process. Firstly, you will need to decide on a shipping method, which can be either by land or sea. The cost of shipping a car to Bahrain from Dubai can range from AED 1,800 to AED 10,000, depending on the chosen method. It is important to note that the cost of shipping does not include customs duties and taxes. The process can take 4-6 days, but this may be extended if the necessary documents are not prepared. These documents include the original export certificate, vehicle purchase invoice, passport/visa of the shipper and consignee, vehicle insurance policy, mortgage release certificate, and original vehicle registration certificate.

Shipping costs and methods

The cost of shipping a car from Dubai to Bahrain depends on various factors, such as the size and weight of the vehicle, the chosen shipping method, and additional services required. The shipping method chosen is a significant factor in determining the overall cost.

RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping is often the most cost-effective option, with prices ranging from AED 1,800 to AED 10,000. With RoRo, vehicles are simply driven onto and off the ship, so the car must be in working condition. This method usually takes two to three days, followed by customs clearance at the border. However, personal items are typically not allowed inside the vehicle during transport.

Alternatively, container shipping offers enhanced protection for vehicles but comes at a higher cost. You can choose between shared and exclusive container shipping. Shared container shipping reduces individual costs by allowing multiple cars (up to eight) to be shipped together. This option also provides some protection for the vehicles and can include personal items. However, coordinating with multiple shippers may lead to potential delays.

Exclusive container shipping allows for the shipment of personal items along with the vehicle, providing better protection as the car is enclosed within its own container. This method is generally more expensive and may take longer for loading and unloading.

Other factors that influence shipping costs include the location in the UAE, as shipping from inland locations may incur additional transportation costs, and the demand for shipping services during different seasons, with high-demand periods potentially leading to increased prices.

It is also important to consider the additional costs associated with customs and duties imposed by Bahrain's customs authorities, as well as optional services such as door-to-door delivery, insurance, and vehicle inspection.

To obtain the most accurate estimate for shipping your car from Dubai to Bahrain, it is advisable to contact shipping companies directly and request quotes based on your specific requirements.

Paperwork and documentation

Required Documents:

• Firstly, ensure you have the original invoice of your vehicle. This document proves ownership and value, and it is crucial for the import/export process.
• Obtain a Certificate of Origin to verify the country of manufacture for your vehicle.
• Gather your essential personal documents, including your original passport, driving license, and visa. It is advisable to have copies of these documents as well.
• If you have recently purchased the vehicle, a vehicle purchase invoice will be necessary.
• Prepare the original vehicle registration certificate, which confirms your ownership and details of the car.
• In the case of a financed vehicle, obtain a mortgage release certificate to show that you have fully paid off the loan.
• For a seamless process, ensure your vehicle insurance policy is up to date.
• If you intend to ship the car, the original export certificate will be required.

Exporting the Vehicle from Dubai:

When exporting your car from Dubai, there are specific steps to follow:

• Visit the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to initiate the process of de-registering your car. They will inspect your vehicle and provide the necessary export certificate.
• Obtain temporary insurance for the duration of the export process if your current insurance does not cover it.
• Contact a shipping company or a tow truck driver to transport your car to Bahrain. They will guide you through the necessary procedures and paperwork.
• If you opt for shipping, consider using a company that offers land freight services. They will arrange for a truck of the appropriate size to transport your car cost-effectively.
• Discuss with the shipping company the option of including your household items on the same truck to streamline the process.

Importing the Vehicle into Bahrain:

When importing your car into Bahrain, there are additional considerations:

• Ensure that your car meets the specifications and requirements for vehicles in Bahrain. This includes checking if there are any restrictions on the age, model, or any other specific criteria.
• If you are importing the car as an individual, you will need your original passport or the passport of the registered owner. For dealers, a company's commercial license is required.
• Obtain a bill of lading, which is a detailed document providing essential shipping information. This is typically provided by the shipping company.
• A driving license valid in Bahrain is necessary for importing the vehicle.
• You have the option to handle customs clearance yourself or engage a shipping company to assist you with the process. Customs duties and taxes may apply, so be prepared for potential additional costs.
• It is advisable to have a Bahraini residence permit or visa stamped in your passport when entering Bahrain with your car. This may simplify the import process and avoid potential challenges at the border.
• Once your car arrives in Bahrain, you will need to obtain a Central Population Register (CPR) and initiate the vehicle registration process.

Vehicle Registration in Bahrain:

To register your vehicle in Bahrain, follow these steps:

• Have your car inspected and approved by the Vehicle Inspection Division. They will provide you with the necessary "vehicle's inspection and registration form."
• Gather the required documents, including insurance (for one year), CPR, ID card, ownership certificate, vehicle's export number plates, and the Customs Declaration letter.
• Proceed to pay the fees for vehicle registration and plate issuance.
• After completing the registration, you will receive white number plates and a registration card, which must always be present in your vehicle.

By diligently preparing the necessary paperwork and understanding the processes in Dubai and Bahrain, you can successfully bring your car from Dubai to Bahrain.

Shipping companies

Shipping your car from Dubai to Bahrain is possible through several shipping companies. The cost of shipping your car depends on various factors, such as the shipping method, the distance, the type of vehicle, and its condition.

Shipping Methods

Shipping your car from Dubai to Bahrain can be done in three ways: by land, sea, or air freight.

Land Freight

Land freight shipping from Dubai to Bahrain takes around two to three days, depending on the customs clearance process at the border. This method involves transporting the car by truck or crane, or by collective car carriers, which can accommodate up to eight cars.

Sea Freight

Sea freight from Dubai to Bahrain takes around three to four days. Shipping is typically done from Jebel Ali Port in Dubai to Port Salman in Manama, followed by customs clearance in Bahrain. Sea freight can accommodate one to four cars, depending on the container size.

Air Freight

The cost of air freight is calculated based on the size and weight of the car.

Several shipping companies offer services for transporting cars from Dubai to Bahrain:

• Aeon Shipping LLC: They offer land freight services and can assist with the necessary paperwork. They also provide vehicle inspection, washing, and lashing services to ensure car safety.
• Car 2 Ship: This company provides various services for shipping cars from Dubai and other parts of the UAE to Bahrain. They assist in preparing the required documents and offer competitive prices.
• Alpha Worldwide: They offer both sea and air freight services from Bahrain, with free storage options for a limited time.
• Reef Shipping Services Dubai: Based in Dubai, they provide door-to-door services for shipping cars to Bahrain by road, sea, and air. They also assist in obtaining the necessary documents, such as the certificate of ownership, export certificate, and car condition report.
• YallaMotor Bahrain: In addition to shipping services, they help with finding and buying the car, providing independent inspections, and handling ownership transfers and paperwork. They also offer competitive shipping rates.

When choosing a shipping company, it is essential to consider factors such as experience, reliability, and the range of services offered to ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process.

Customs and duties

The cheapest and easiest way to ship a car is in a container on a cargo ship. There are two types of containers: a dedicated container, which is rented by the exporter, and a consolidation container, which is a more economical option where the car is shipped with two or more other cars.

The roll-on, roll-off method is another popular transportation method. For this method, the car must be in working condition as it will be driven up a ramp onto a ship. However, no items are allowed to be stored in the car.

When choosing a shipping company, it is important to consider factors such as location, vehicle type and size, and the season. The auto transport industry is busiest during the summer, so shipping during this time will be more expensive.

To initiate the shipping process, certain documents are required. These include the original export certificate, vehicle purchase invoice, passport/visa of the shipper and consignee, vehicle insurance policy, mortgage release certificate, and original vehicle registration certificate.

Car specifications

Vehicle Type and Size:

The size and weight of your vehicle will impact the shipping cost. Heavier and larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, may incur higher charges compared to smaller and lighter cars. Ensure you provide accurate dimensions and weight specifications to receive accurate shipping quotes.

Shipping Method:

The roll-on, roll-off method is a popular choice for transporting vehicles. This method requires the car to be in working condition as it needs to be driven up a ramp onto the ship. Alternatively, you can opt for container shipping, where your car is placed inside a container and shipped by sea. This option tends to be more expensive.

Documentation:

Before initiating the shipping process, ensure you have all the necessary documents in order. These may include the original export certificate, vehicle purchase invoice, passport/visa of the shipper and consignee, vehicle insurance policy, mortgage release certificate, and original vehicle registration certificate. Proper documentation is essential to avoid delays in the shipping process.

Vehicle Compatibility:

It is important to ensure that your vehicle complies with the regulations and standards of the destination country. Some countries may have specific requirements for vehicle specifications, such as emission standards or restrictions on left-hand-drive vehicles. Familiarize yourself with Bahrain's regulations to ensure your car meets the necessary standards.

Shipping Costs:

The cost of shipping your car from Dubai to Bahrain can vary depending on the shipping method and vehicle specifications. The approximate cost for the roll-on, roll-off method starts at AED 1,800, while container shipping can be upwards of AED 10,000. These costs do not include customs duties and taxes, which you will need to pay separately.

Timing:

The time required to ship your car from Dubai to Bahrain can vary. On average, it takes between 4 to 6 days for the transportation process. However, this timeline also depends on the preparation of your documents and any customs clearance procedures.

Frequently asked questions