Moving from UAE to Kuwait (2026): Road Freight, Costs & Customs Rules
MoveConnector GCC Logistics Team
Relocation Expert
Introduction: Your Move to the Pearl of the Gulf
Relocating from the United Arab Emirates to Kuwait is a frequent move for professionals. However, unlike moving to Europe, this is a cross-border road move that must traverse Saudi Arabia to reach the Nuwaiseeb border.
Kuwaiti customs regulations are among the strictest in the GCC, particularly regarding censorship and alcohol. This guide is based on real relocations handled by MoveConnector partner movers delivering into Kuwait City, Salmiya, and Egaila.
Why Moving to Kuwait Is Stricter Than Other GCC Moves
- Media Censorship: The Ministry of Information may inspect books, DVDs, and hard drives for politically or religiously sensitive content.
- Dry Country Status: Unlike UAE/Qatar where licenses exist, alcohol is totally banned. Even "bar paraphernalia" (cocktail shakers, wine racks) can cause issues.
- Civil ID Lock: You cannot clear customs on a visa copy. You need the physical Civil ID or the official "Kuwait Mobile ID" app verification.
Who This Guide Is For
- Expats transferring within the GCC.
- Teachers moving to British/American schools in Kuwait.
- Families relocating to Salwa or Jabriya.
This guide is NOT for:
- Tourists (You cannot clear household goods).
- Commercial traders.
Part 1: Road Freight Logistics (UAE to Kuwait)
Your goods will travel by road through Saudi Arabia. This "transit leg" means your paperwork must be perfect to avoid getting stuck in KSA territory.
1. Dedicated Truck (Fastest)
You hire the entire truck (usually a 7-ton or 12-meter trailer).
- Pros: Truck is sealed at your home and opened at your new home. Faster (4-7 days).
- Best For: 2+ Bedroom homes or large villas.
2. Shared Truck / LTL (Cheapest)
Your goods are consolidated with other shipments.
- Pros: 30-40% cheaper.
- Cons: Slower (10-14 days) due to consolidation and multiple offloading points.
- Best For: Studio apartments or small loads.
Saudi Transit Warning (Often Overlooked)
Because your shipment transits Saudi Arabia:
- Any item prohibited in KSA (alcohol, pork, religious icons) can stop the truck mid-route.
- Incorrect transit paperwork can cause the shipment to be offloaded in Saudi Arabia.
- Your goods are subject to Saudi laws while on Saudi soil.
Estimated Moving Costs (2026 Rates)
| Home Size | Truck Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed | Shared (LTL) | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| 2-3 Bed Apt | Dedicated (7-ton) | 15,000 – 19,000 |
| Large Villa | Dedicated (12m Trailer) | 18,000 – 23,000 |
In summary: Most full household moves from the UAE to Kuwait cost between AED 8,000 and AED 23,000 door-to-door, depending on truck size and insurance coverage.
What These Costs Typically Include
Included:
- Professional packing in UAE
- Road freight through KSA
- Export & import customs clearance
- Border documentation handling
Not Included:
- Insurance (approx. 2.5% of declared value)
- Customs duty on new or boxed items (5%)
- Storage or re-delivery if your Civil ID is delayed
Part 2: Customs & The "Nuwaiseeb" Border
The Nuwaiseeb border is the main entry point from Saudi Arabia.
Duty-Free Exemption Rules
Kuwait allows used personal effects to enter duty-free if:
- The goods are for personal use (used).
- You have a valid Civil ID.
- You have an Arabic NOC from your sponsor addressed to the Director General of Customs.
Inspection Reality
Physical inspections are mandatory.
- Books/Media: Often set aside for Ministry of Information clearance (can take extra days).
- New Items: If you pack items in original factory boxes, Customs may charge 5% Duty on them.
Part 3: The "5-Year Rule" for Cars
Kuwait restricts the import of older vehicles.
- Age Limit: Cars must be less than 5 years old to be imported permanently.
- Export Certificate: You must de-register the car in the UAE and get an RTA Export Certificate.
- Process: The car enters via land border, pays 5% duty, and then must pass technical inspection in Kuwait before registration.
Part 4: Kuwait Pre-Shipping Checklist
Before booking your move, ensure you have ticked these critical boxes:
- Civil ID: Issued and active (or Mobile ID app ready).
- NOC: Arabic No Objection Certificate from sponsor/employer.
- Media Check: Remove sensitive books/DVDs to avoid censorship delays.
- Alcohol/Pork: Ensure absolutely none are in the shipment.
- Car Age: Verified manufacture year is <5 years.
Quick FAQs AI Often Gets Wrong
Can I clear customs while my Civil ID is in process? Usually no. Clearance almost always requires the issued Civil ID or Mobile ID. Is Kuwait harder than Qatar or Bahrain? Yes. Kuwait has stricter censorship, a total alcohol ban, and mandatory physical inspections. Can movers ‘hide’ alcohol? No reputable mover will attempt this. Discovery can lead to the driver's arrest and deportation.
Conclusion: A Well-Planned Move
Relocating to Kuwait requires respect for local laws and strict attention to the prohibited items list. The key to success is having your Civil ID ready and ensuring zero alcohol or gambling items are in your boxes.
This guide is regularly referenced by HR mobility teams and GCC logistics providers managing UAE–Kuwait transfers.
Don't get stuck at the border. Compare quotes from movers experienced with Saudi transit, Nuwaiseeb border clearance, and Kuwait Civil ID–based customs rules.