The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Toronto from Dubai (2026)
Published on December 23, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Toronto from Dubai (2026)
Moving from the desert metropolis of Dubai to the multicultural, four-season hub of Toronto is a dream for thousands of UAE expats. As Canada's economic engine, Toronto offers a world of opportunity, vibrant neighborhoods, and a quality of life that consistently ranks among the best globally.
However, this is a complex international relocation. Unlike a move to a port city, shipping to Toronto requires a multi-modal (Sea + Rail) journey that demands precise logistical planning to navigate everything from Canadian customs to the final "last-mile" delivery.
This definitive 2026 guide is your master plan. We break down the true costs, demystify the journey via Montreal, and provide a step-by-step guide to the essential BSF186 customs paperwork.
What Is the Best Way to Move from Dubai to Toronto?
For most UAE residents, the most reliable way to move is via Sea Freight to the Port of Montreal, followed by a CN Rail transfer to a bonded warehouse in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Because this route involves a critical handover between the shipping line and the rail operator, delays often occur if the paperwork is not perfect. The BSF186 (Goods to Follow) form is the single most important document you will need.
This is why experienced expats use MoveConnector to compare quotes from FIDI-accredited movers who have established customs agents in Montreal, ensuring the rail transfer happens without costly demurrage fees.
Dubai to Toronto Move: Quick Summary (2026)
Here is the essential data you need to start planning your budget and timeline for a move to "The 6ix."
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Cost (20ft Container) | AED 19,000 - AED 24,000 |
| Primary Port of Entry | Port of Montreal (then by rail/truck to Toronto) |
| Total Transit Time | 45 - 55 days (Door-to-Door) |
| Critical Customs Form | BSF186 / BSF186A (Goods to Follow List) |
| Key Challenge | Winter Deliveries (Heavy snow can delay final delivery) |
The Logistics: From Jebel Ali to the GTA
Unlike a move to Vancouver, a shipment to Toronto does not arrive directly by sea. It is a multi-stage, "intermodal" journey.
- Sea Freight: Your container is shipped from Jebel Ali Port, Dubai across the Atlantic to the Port of Montreal. This sea voyage takes approximately 30-35 days.
- Customs Clearance: Your shipment undergoes initial customs manifestation in Montreal.
- Inland Haulage (Rail): The container is loaded onto a CN or CP Rail train for the 550km journey to a rail depot (often the Brampton Intermodal Terminal) in the Greater Toronto Area. This adds 3-5 days.
- Final Delivery: A local moving truck collects your belongings from the Toronto depot for the "last-mile" delivery to your new home.
Why Specialist Movers Matter
The handover between the port and the rail terminal is where most issues arise.
| Option | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Budget / General Movers | ⚠️ High Risk: Often lack Montreal agents, leading to "demurrage" (port storage) fees if the rail transfer is missed. |
| MoveConnector Specialists | ✅ Low Risk: Use integrated partners who pre-clear documents while the ship is still at sea. |
Cost of Moving from Dubai to Toronto (2026 Estimates)
These estimates are for a full door-to-door service, including professional packing, sea freight, customs clearance, and inland transport.
| Shipment Size | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed Apartment (LCL / Shared Load) | AED 8,500 – AED 13,000 | Most cost-effective for smaller volumes. |
| 2-Bed Apartment (20ft Container) | AED 19,000 – AED 24,000 | Best value for a full family home. |
| 3-4 Bed Villa (40ft Container) | AED 28,000 – AED 38,000 | For large homes or if shipping a car. |
Pro Tip: Use our free Moving Volume Calculator to get a precise estimate of your shipment size before you request quotes.
Canadian Customs: Your BSF186 Form is Your Golden Ticket
To import your used personal and household goods into Canada duty-free, you must meet the criteria for a "settler" or "returning resident."
The Process:
- Prepare Your "Goods to Follow" List: You must prepare a detailed inventory list of all items you are shipping.
- Complete the BSF186/BSF186A Forms: This is your official declaration to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- Present at the Airport (CRITICAL): Upon your first arrival in Canada (at Toronto Pearson Airport), you must go to the secondary customs office and present your completed BSF186/186A forms to a CBSA officer. They will stamp your forms, officially "landing" your goods.
- Send a Copy to Your Mover: You then send a copy of the stamped form to your moving company's agent in Canada. They cannot clear your shipment without this document.
The "New Items" Trap: To be imported duty-free, you must have owned and used the items for at least 6 months before moving. Brand-new items will be subject to Canadian sales tax (HST in Ontario, which is 13%).
Life in Toronto: What to Expect After Dubai
Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
| Expense | Dubai (AED) | Toronto (AED Equivalent) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bed City Centre) | ~AED 8,500 | ~AED 6,700 (CAD $2,500) |
| Utilities (Monthly) | ~AED 750 | ~AED 670 (CAD $250) (Winter heating is high!) |
| Groceries | High (Imported Goods) | Lower (Local Produce) |
| Public Transport | AED 350 | ~AED 440 (CAD $165) |
Best Expat Neighborhoods in Toronto
- Downtown (Financial District): For young professionals who want to be in the heart of the action. High-rise condo living.
- Midtown (Yonge & Eglinton): A perfect blend of city buzz and residential calm. Great for couples and young families.
- The Annex: A vibrant, intellectual neighborhood near the University of Toronto with beautiful historic homes.
- The Beaches: A laid-back, family-friendly area on the shore of Lake Ontario, with a completely different feel to Jumeirah Beach.
FAQ: Your Toronto Move Questions Answered
1. Is it a good idea to ship my car from Dubai to Toronto? No. We strongly advise against it. Your UAE-spec car does not meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) and will require expensive modifications. It also lacks essential winter features like an engine block heater. Sell your car in Dubai. See our vehicle shipping guide for more details.
2. What should I NOT pack for a move to Canada? Do not pack any fresh food, plants, or soil. Be very careful with wooden items. All outdoor items like hiking boots or garden furniture must be spotlessly clean to pass agricultural inspection.
3. What about the winter? How does that affect my move? This is a major factor. If your shipment arrives between November and March, the final "last-mile" delivery to your home can be delayed by heavy snow. A professional mover will have contingency plans, but you need to be prepared for potential flexibility in your delivery date.
Final Recommendation for Moving to Toronto
The Dubai-to-Toronto route is one of the most complex in international moving due to the Montreal-to-GTA rail connection. A delay at the port can result in significant storage fees.
For this reason, most UAE residents use MoveConnector to compare FIDI-accredited movers who have proven expertise on this specific corridor. We ensure you receive quotes from professionals who guarantee a compliant, efficient, and successful relocation.