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Shipping Cars from Dubai to Kenya – Nautical Gulf
Introduction
The trade relationship between Dubai and Kenya has created a booming market for automobile imports. With Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for new and used vehicles, thousands of cars are exported to Kenya every year. Whether you are an individual buyer, an auto dealer, or a business importing fleets, car shipping from Dubai to Kenya has become a vital logistics service.
This blog provides a complete guide on how to ship cars from Dubai to Kenya, covering shipping methods, costs, customs requirements, timelines, and tips to ensure a smooth process.
Why Import Cars from Dubai to Kenya?
- Cost Advantage – Cars in Dubai are often more affordable compared to other markets.
- Luxury Vehicle Access – Premium brands like Toyota, Mercedes, Lexus, and BMW are widely available.
- Variety of Used Cars – Dubai has a large market of well-maintained used vehicles.
- Efficient Shipping Network – Dubai’s ports make car exports to East Africa fast and reliable.
Car Shipping Methods from Dubai to Kenya
1. Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
- Vehicles are driven onto specialized ships.
- Cheapest option for standard cars.
- Transit time: 18–24 days.
2. Container Shipping
- Cars are loaded in 20ft or 40ft containers.
- Provides maximum protection for luxury or fragile cars.
- Allows shipping of multiple cars and personal items.
3. Air Freight Shipping
- Premium option for urgent or high-value cars.
- Transit time: 3–7 days.
- More expensive than sea freight.
Documents Required to Ship Cars from Dubai to Kenya
- Bill of Lading
- Export Certificate (Dubai)
- Purchase Invoice
- Passport Copy of Importer
- Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Import Approval
- Certificate of Conformity (COC)
Customs and Duties in Kenya
- Import Duty: 25% of car value
- Excise Duty: 20%
- VAT: 16%
- IDF (Import Declaration Fee): 2.25% of CIF value
- Rail Development Levy (RDL): 1.5% of CIF value
Cars older than 8 years are not allowed for import into Kenya.
Cost of Shipping Cars from Dubai to Kenya
- RoRo Shipping: $800 – $1,200 per car
- 20ft Container: $2,000 – $2,400 (1 car)
- 40ft Shared Container: $1,200 – $1,600 per car
- Air Freight: $6,000+
Popular Ports in Kenya for Car Imports
- Mombasa Port – Main gateway for car imports from Dubai.
- Vehicles are later transported inland to Nairobi and other regions.
Timeline for Shipping Cars from Dubai to Kenya
- RoRo Shipping: 18–24 days
- Container Shipping: 20–28 days
- Air Freight: 3–7 days
Why Choose a Professional Car Shipping Company?
- Safe and damage-free transportation.
- Assistance with customs clearance.
- Flexible shipping options (RoRo, container, air).
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Insurance coverage for vehicles.
Customer Testimonials
“I shipped a Toyota Prado from Dubai to Mombasa using container shipping. The process was smooth and transparent.” – James M.
“Nautical Gulf managed everything from export documents in Dubai to customs in Kenya. Highly recommended!” – Grace K.
“I shipped two Toyotas from Dubai to Lagos using container shipping. The process was smooth, and the cars arrived in great condition.” – Chinedu A.
“Nautical Gulf handled everything, including customs in Nigeria. I highly recommend their car shipping service.” – Fatima O.
Conclusion
Shipping cars from Dubai to Kenya is a smart choice for individuals and businesses seeking affordability, variety, and reliability. With the right logistics partner, you can ensure your vehicle arrives safely, on time, and fully compliant with Kenyan import laws.
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