The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Perth from Dubai (2025)
Sarah Mitchell
Relocation Expert
Introduction: From the Gulf Sands to the Swan River
The move from the bustling metropolis of Dubai to the sunny, relaxed lifestyle of Perth is a popular path for expats. However, this idyllic destination is protected by some of the most stringent biosecurity laws in the world.
This definitive guide is your roadmap. We cover critical biosecurity protocols, realistic shipping costs, the B534 customs process, and tips to avoid expensive quarantine surprises.
This guide is for: UAE residents relocating permanently or long-term to Western Australia, including skilled migrants, PR holders, and families shipping household goods to Perth via sea freight.
⚡ Quick Estimates: Dubai to Perth (2025)
Here is the data you need for your budget. These are door-to-door estimates including packing and sea freight.
| Shipment Size | Service Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed Apt | LCL (Shared Container) | AED 5,500 – AED 9,000 |
| 2-Bedroom Home | 20ft Container (FCL) | AED 14,000 – AED 19,000 |
| 3-4 Bedroom Villa | 40ft Container (FCL) | AED 20,000 – AED 28,000 |
- Transit Time: 25 - 40 Days (Jebel Ali to Fremantle)
- Customs Clearance: Add 7-10 days for DAFF inspection.
What Is the Best Way to Move from Dubai to Perth?
For most UAE residents, the safest and most cost-effective way to move to Perth is sea freight handled by Australia-specialist international movers.
Australia enforces some of the world’s strictest biosecurity laws. Most delays, fines, and quarantine charges occur due to packing and declaration errors, not the shipping itself.
For this reason, expats typically use MoveConnector to compare quotes from movers who:
- Specialize in Australian routes and Fremantle Port procedures.
- Prepare DAFF-compliant packing lists and inventories.
- Handle B534 customs documentation correctly to ensure duty-free entry.
Compare quotes from movers who are experts in Australian biosecurity on MoveConnector
Choosing the Right Mover for Australia
| Option | Risk Level | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| General International Movers | ⚠️ Medium | Often unfamiliar with specific DAFF cleanliness standards. |
| Budget Freight Forwarders | ❌ High | No customs support. Container often delayed at port. |
| DIY Shipping | ❌ Very High | High risk of inspection failure, storage fees, and GST errors. |
| MoveConnector Verified Partners | ✅ Lowest | Specialists in Australia route, B534, and biosecurity packing. |
⚠️ How to Avoid DAFF Quarantine Fees (Australian Biosecurity)
This is the most critical section of this guide. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) enforces a strict "clean as new" policy. Your container will be inspected at Fremantle Port.
Top 3 Mistakes That Cause Delays 🚩
- Dirty Outdoor Gear: Packing bikes, golf shoes, or camping tents with even traces of Dubai sand or soil.
- Prohibited Packing Materials: Using banana boxes, fruit cartons, or straw packing (often used by budget movers).
- Undeclared Items: Failing to list "miscellaneous" items on the B534 form.
The Cost of Non-Compliance 💸
If DAFF finds contamination, you pay for the solution.
- Standard Inspection Fee: AUD $400 - $700
- Steam Cleaning (per item):: AUD $150+
- Fumigation (Container): AUD $800+
Expert Tip: Time spent cleaning your outdoor items in Dubai is the most valuable preparation you can do. A clean shipment is a fast shipment.
Step-by-Step Logistics Guide
1. The B534 Form & Customs
To import your household goods duty-free, you must be a permanent resident or hold a qualifying long-term visa. You must also have owned and used the goods for at least 12 months.
You must complete the B534 Unaccompanied Personal Effects Statement. Be honest—if you are unsure if an item is wood or plastic, declare it.
2. Moving Pets to Perth
- Timeline: Start 6-7 months before you move.
- Quarantine: All pets from the UAE must complete a minimum 10-day quarantine at the Mickleham facility in Melbourne (there is no facility in Perth) before flying domestically to WA.
- Cost: Expect to pay AED 18,000 - AED 30,000+ per pet.
Final Expert Advice
For most Dubai-to-Perth relocations, success depends far more on biosecurity compliance than on shipping speed or headline price.
The most reliable approach is to compare quotes from Australia-specialist movers who understand DAFF inspections, B534 documentation, and Fremantle Port clearance.