← Back to Blog2026-06-17 · K2 Relocation

Moving from Dubai to Europe: Germany, France, Netherlands and Beyond

Europe is a popular destination for UAE residents returning home or relocating for work. Germany, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Belgium and the Scandinavian countries all receive significant volumes of international household goods shipments from Dubai each year.

Sea Freight from Dubai to Europe

Shipments from Jebel Ali travel through the Suez Canal to European ports. Approximate transit times:

  • Hamburg / Bremen (Germany): 18–25 days
  • Rotterdam (Netherlands): 20–26 days
  • Antwerp (Belgium): 20–26 days
  • Marseille (France): 17–22 days
  • Genoa (Italy): 16–22 days
  • Gothenburg (Sweden): 22–28 days

Rotterdam and Hamburg are the two largest hub ports, with excellent onward trucking connections to most European cities.

EU Customs: Import of Personal Effects

Citizens moving to an EU member state can import personal household goods free of customs duty and VAT under Article 3 Relief (Council Directive 2009/132/EC), provided:

  • You have resided outside the EU for at least 12 consecutive months
  • The goods are for personal use
  • The goods have been in your possession for at least 6 months
  • They are not used for a commercial purpose

You must submit a customs declaration and supporting documents to the customs authority at the port of entry.

Moving to Germany Specifically

Germany is the UAE's largest European relocation destination. Key points:

  • All household goods must be declared at the first EU port of entry (which may be Rotterdam or Hamburg)
  • The customs authority will review your Zollfreiheit (duty-free import) application
  • Items such as alcohol and tobacco have quantity limits even for personal import
  • Furniture and electronics work on 220V/50Hz (same as UAE)

Moving to the Netherlands

Rotterdam is the world's largest port outside Asia and serves as the entry point for most UAE-to-Netherlands shipments. Dutch customs is efficient and well-versed in household goods imports.

Moving to Switzerland (Non-EU)

Switzerland is not an EU member and has its own customs process. However, similar Transfer of Domicile (ToD) relief applies for returning residents and new settlers.

What to Prepare

  • Passport and UAE residence permit showing length of stay
  • Proof of new European address
  • Detailed inventory list in English and the destination country language (optional but helpful)
  • Proof that goods have been owned for 6+ months (receipts, photos)

K2 Relocation's Europe Move Service

Our export team manages the full Dubai departure — professional packing, export documentation, freight booking and Jebel Ali port procedures. We coordinate with established European destination agents who handle customs clearance and last-mile delivery to your new home.

Whether you are heading to a flat in Amsterdam, a house in Munich or an apartment in Paris, K2 Relocation ensures your belongings arrive safely and on schedule.