2026 Import Guide
🇦🇪 → 🇪🇸
Importing a Car from Dubai to Spain
Calculate customs duty (6.5%), VAT (21%), registration tax, homologation and sea freight — all in seconds.
Free calculatorReal 2026 dataInstant result
6,5%
Customs duty
of CIF value
21%
Import VAT
on CIF + duty
~25–30%
Total surcharge
of car price
Important: Importing from Dubai involves customs duty and VAT that don't apply to EU imports. Use the calculator to know the exact cost before you buy.
Calculator — Dubai to Spain
Pre-configured for imports from the UAE.
Loading calculator...
How is the total cost built up?
Car price (example)€40,000
+ Sea freight (approx.)€2,200
+ 6.5% duty on CIF€2,743
+ 21% VAT on (CIF + duty)€9,450
+ Homologation + ITV + fees~€3,000
Estimated total~€57,400
Indicative example. Use the calculator for your case.
Import Process from Dubai
1
Find and buy the car in the UAE
1–4 weeks
Search Dubizzle, Cars.co or local dealers. Verify the car has European spec or that homologation is feasible.
2
Book ro-ro sea freight
20–35 days
From Jebel Ali Port (Dubai) to a Spanish port. Transit takes 20–35 days. Mandatory transport insurance.
3
Customs clearance in Spain
3–7 days
On arrival, a customs agent clears the vehicle: duty (6.5%) and VAT (21%). Documents: invoice, packing list, bill of lading (B/L).
4
Individual homologation
2–8 weeks
Take the car to a control body (IDIADA, INTA…) for individual homologation. Cost: €800–4,000 depending on model.
5
ITV and final registration
1–2 weeks
With the homologation, pass the Spanish ITV. Pay the registration tax to the Tax Agency and request plates at the DGT.
Dubai vs. Germany — which makes more sense?
Factor🇦🇪 Dubai🇩🇪 Germany
Customs duty6.5% CIF0%
Import VAT21%0%
Homologation€800–4,000Included (COC)
Transport€1,600–2,800€500–1,200
Exclusive carsF-150, Yukon…Not available
Used luxury marketVery activeSmaller offer
Total time3–4 months4–8 weeks
Importing from Germany is usually cheaper unless you want a model that's not available in Europe.
Popular Models from Dubai
Tesla Model S/3/X/Y
Reg. tax exempt
Lamborghini Urus
Potential savings
Rolls-Royce Ghost
Pre-owned
🇺🇸
Dodge Challenger
UAE-only
GMC Yukon
Not in EU
Ford F-150
Exclusive pickup
What to watch out for before importing
- Verify the model has European spec or that homologation is possible — some UAE models cannot be homologated in Spain.
- The car must pass the Spanish ITV and meet WLTP/Euro 6 emissions rules.
- Request the vehicle history (Carfax or similar) — the Dubai market has high turnover.
- AED/EUR exchange rate can affect the final price. Confirm price and shipping cost in writing.
- Hire a specialist broker for non-EU imports to handle customs clearance.