Moving in Dubai, frequently asked questions
Everything people ask us before they book, answered properly rather than in one line. If your question is not here, call 052 380 9792 and ask.
Prices and quotes
How much does it cost to move in Dubai?
The price is driven by volume first, then access, then how much packing you want done. A studio with a service lift at both ends sits at the bottom of the range, a five bedroom villa with a full pack sits at the top. We will not give a figure over the phone without seeing the home, because a number given blind always changes on the day. Send a WhatsApp video to 052 380 9792 and you will have a fixed written price the same day.
Is your quote fixed or is it an estimate?
Fixed. After the survey you get a written price listing the crew size, the truck size, the materials and any lift or permit charges as separate lines. That is what you pay. The only thing that changes it is you adding items after the survey and asking us to take them.
Do you charge for the survey?
No, and there is no obligation afterwards. We do it in person or over WhatsApp video, whichever suits you.
How can I make my move cheaper?
Move in the middle of the month rather than the last three days, be flexible on the time of day, pack your own clothes, books and shoes, and get rid of anything you do not want before you pay to transport it. Those four things save more than haggling does.
Do you take card, cash or bank transfer?
Tell us what suits you when you book and we will confirm the options on your quote so there is no confusion on the day.
Booking and timing
How far in advance should I book?
Two to five days for an apartment, about a week for a villa. The constraint is usually the building permit rather than our availability. The last three days of the month are the busiest period in Dubai, so book earlier if your tenancy ends then.
Can you move me the same day?
Sometimes, when a crew and truck are free, which is most likely mid month. If your building requires a move permit, that approval is the part that cannot be rushed. Call 052 380 9792 and we will tell you honestly.
How long does a move take?
A studio or one bedroom is usually half a day. A two or three bedroom with packing is a full day. Large villas are often packed one day and moved the next. The survey tells you which yours is so you can book time off accurately.
Do you work on Fridays and public holidays?
We work around your building. Many towers restrict moving hours on Fridays and during prayer times, and some do not allow moves at all on certain days. Give us your preferred date and we will confirm what the building permits.
Permits, buildings and paperwork
Do I need a permit to move out of my building?
In most Dubai towers and gated communities, yes. You normally need a move out permit from the building you are leaving and a move in permit at the new one, applied for a few working days ahead with your tenancy contract and Emirates ID. Many buildings also hold a refundable deposit against damage to the lobby, the lift or the corridors.
Who applies for the permits?
We do, at both ends, and we book the service lift slot. You sign what needs your signature and we do the chasing with building management.
What about DEWA and my internet?
Those stay with you and are separate from the building permit. Arrange your DEWA move out and move in and your internet transfer in advance. A new home with no electricity on moving day makes for a long afternoon.
Will you protect the building so I keep my deposit?
Yes. Floor runners, lift padding and door frame guards go in at both ends before anything is carried. That protection is what a building deposit is really covering, and it is included rather than an extra.
On the day
Do you dismantle and reassemble furniture?
Yes, included. Beds, wardrobes, dining tables, desks and TV brackets come apart before they are carried and are rebuilt at the new place before the crew leaves. Fixings go in a labelled bag taped to the item they belong to.
What should I keep with me rather than put on the truck?
Passports, Emirates ID, tenancy documents, jewellery, medication, chargers, a change of clothes and anything you would panic about if it were in a box. Keep them in your own car.
Will you take the empty boxes away?
Yes, either at the end of the same day or on a return visit once you have unpacked, whichever you prefer. You should not be left with a mountain of cardboard.
What if something gets damaged?
Tell the supervisor before the crew leaves and note it on the delivery sheet. We photograph existing marks before wrapping and we walk through with you at the end, so anything raised on the day is straightforward to resolve.
Storage and special items
Can you store my furniture between two tenancies?
Yes, by the week or by the month, with collection and redelivery included. Everything is inventoried and numbered so you know exactly what we are holding, and you can ask for a single item back rather than emptying the unit.
Can you move a piano?
Yes. Uprights, baby grands and grands move on purpose built boards with straps rather than grip. Send photographs of the piano, the lift interior and the door widths at both ends before booking so we arrive with the right equipment.
Do you move plants, pets or food?
Plants can travel in a move but not into storage, and they do not survive long in a hot truck. Pets should travel with you rather than in the truck. Perishable food should be used up or given away, not moved.
Still not sure?
Have a look at all our services, read about home movers in Dubai, or just call and describe what you are moving.
Tell us what you are moving and we will price it today
A free survey in person or over WhatsApp video, then a fixed written quote. No obligation.