Cost of Moving Between Emirates | Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Introduction: The Nuances of a Cross-Emirate Move

Relocating within the UAE is a common part of expat life. But a move from a villa in Dubai's Arabian Ranches to a high-rise on Abu Dhabi's Corniche is a different logistical exercise than shifting apartments within the same neighborhood. While not as complex as an international relocation, moving between Emirates involves more than just a longer drive. The distance, the volume of your goods, and the level of service you require all play a significant role in determining the final cost.

Many residents are surprised that a move from Dubai to Sharjah or Abu Dhabi costs more than a simple local move. Understanding the factors that influence the price is key to budgeting accurately and choosing the right moving company for the job.

This guide will break down the primary cost drivers for an inter-Emirate move. We’ll explain why a move to a neighboring Emirate is a distinct service and provide you with the knowledge to get a fair and transparent quote for your relocation.

The Core Cost Factors: Volume and Service Level

Just like any other move, the two biggest factors determining your price are how much stuff you have and how much of the work you want the movers to do.

1. The Volume of Your Goods

This is the most significant factor. The more belongings you have, the larger the truck needed, the more packing materials required, and the more man-hours it will take. Movers in the UAE quote based on the size of your current home as a proxy for volume.

Typical Price Brackets for a Full-Service Move (Including Packing):

Studio Apartment: 1,200 - 1,800 AED
1-Bedroom Apartment: 1,800 - 2,600 AED
2-Bedroom Apartment: 2,500 - 3,800 AED
3-Bedroom Villa/Apartment: 3,800 - 5,500+ AED

These are baseline figures for a local move. For a move to another Emirate, you can expect these prices to be the starting point before other factors are added.

2. The Level of Packing Service

Full-Service Packing: The movers pack everything. This is the standard for most moves in the UAE and is reflected in the prices above. It's the most stress-free option.
Partial Packing: You pack non-fragile items like clothes and books, and the movers handle the furniture and kitchenware. This can save you a small amount, but it adds to your workload.
No Packing (Transport Only): This is the cheapest option but is generally not recommended. You are responsible for all packing, and the risk of damage is higher.

Why Moving Between Emirates Costs More: The Key Variables

Here are the specific factors that add to the cost when you cross from one Emirate to another.

3. Distance and Transportation Time

This is the most obvious additional cost. A longer journey means:

Higher Fuel Costs: A trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back is roughly 300 km.
More Time on the Road: A moving truck and its crew that would normally complete 2-3 local jobs in a day can only perform one inter-Emirate move. The moving company must dedicate that crew and vehicle to your job for the entire day. This "opportunity cost" is factored into the price.
Toll Charges: Routes between Emirates often involve Salik (Dubai) or Darb (Abu Dhabi) toll gates, which are added to the transportation cost.

Estimated Cost Increase for Distance:

Dubai to Sharjah: Expect an additional 300 - 500 AED.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi: Expect an additional 600 - 1,000 AED.
Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK): Expect an additional 700 - 1,200 AED.

4. Required Manpower and Number of Trucks

A larger home requires a bigger team and potentially more than one truck to complete the move in a single day. Moving to another Emirate makes a second trip impractical, so the company must send enough resources to get it done in one go. If your 4-bedroom villa requires two trucks, the transportation cost (fuel, tolls, driver time) doubles.

5. Access and Building Regulations

Move Permits: Just like a local move, you must secure move-out and move-in permits from your building management in both Emirates.
Elevator Bookings: Coordinating service elevator access at both ends is crucial. Any delays because a permit wasn't secured or an elevator wasn't booked can lead to waiting time fees from the mover.
Accessorial Charges: Does your new villa in Abu Dhabi have a long pathway from the road? Does your new apartment in Sharjah have a difficult-to-access loading bay? These factors can increase labor time and may incur "long carry" fees. Discuss access at both locations with your mover during the survey.

6. Timing of Your Move

Just like local moves, demand for inter-Emirate moves is highest at the end of the month and on weekends. Booking a mid-week, mid-month move can often result in a more competitive quote as moving companies have better availability.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your Inter-Emirate Move

The only way to get a reliable price is to have a professional assess your specific needs.

Insist on a Survey: Do not accept a quote over the phone. A reputable mover will send a consultant to your home (or conduct a video survey) to accurately calculate your volume and assess any special requirements.
Be Detailed and Honest: Show the surveyor everything you intend to move. The more accurate their assessment, the more accurate your quote will be. Inform them of any access challenges at the destination.
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact at least three different companies. This allows you to compare prices and ensure you're getting a fair market rate. A platform like MoveConnector.com is the easiest way to get multiple, vetted quotes.
Ask for an All-Inclusive Price: Request a binding quote that includes all transportation costs, packing materials, labor, and any known fees like tolls.

FAQ: Moving Between Emirates

1. How long does a move from Dubai to Abu Dhabi take? It's a full-day job. The crew will typically arrive early in the morning for packing and loading (4-6 hours), travel to Abu Dhabi (2-3 hours including buffer time), and then unload and set up your new home (3-5 hours). Expect the team to be with you for most of the day, from around 8 AM to 7 PM.

2. Can I move on a Friday? Yes, movers in the UAE operate seven days a week. However, Friday is the busiest day, so you will need to book well in advance and may pay a premium. Be aware that some building management offices are closed on Fridays, so you must secure your move permits during the work week.

3. Do I need to pay for the movers' lunch? No, it is not expected. However, providing cold water and refreshments is a highly appreciated gesture, especially during the hotter months.

4. Is there a risk of damage on the long drive? When you use a professional moving company, the risk is very low. They use closed, covered trucks and are experts at "stowage"—loading the truck tightly and securely to ensure nothing shifts, even during a 1-2 hour highway drive.

Conclusion: A Small Investment for a Major Move

While moving between Emirates costs more than a local move, the reasons are logistical and justified. The extra expense covers a full day's dedication of a professional crew and vehicle to manage the significant distance and time involved. By understanding these cost factors and partnering with a reputable mover, you can ensure your relocation across the country is handled efficiently, safely, and with a clear, transparent budget.

Ready to find out the exact cost of your inter-Emirate move?

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Moving Between Emirates: Dubai to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Beyond – What Affects the Cost?