Moving from UAE to Malaysia (2026): Visas, Costs & The "Borneo" Option
MoveConnector Asia-Pacific Team
Relocation Expert
Introduction: Your Gateway to "Truly Asia"
Moving from the United Arab Emirates to Malaysia is a popular choice for expats seeking a tropical lifestyle at a fraction of the cost. However, the immigration landscape has shifted dramatically in 2025/2026 with the new MM2H Tiers and the rise of the DE Rantau Nomad Pass.
This guide is based on real relocations handled by MoveConnector partner movers delivering into Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. We cover the essential steps for 2026, from the "Silver" tier deposit to the "Borneo Option" for easier residency.
Should You Move to Malaysia? Quick Reality Check
- Malaysia is ideal if you: Want a low cost of living with modern infrastructure, qualify for MM2H or DE Rantau, and do not need to import a car.
- Malaysia is NOT ideal if you: Expect tax-free car imports, want permanent residency quickly, or plan to ship alcohol or new electronics.
Who This Guide Is For
- Retirees exploring the new MM2H Silver/Gold tiers.
- Digital Nomads (DE Rantau Pass) moving from Dubai.
- Families relocating for corporate roles in KL.
This guide is NOT for:
- Tourists on 90-day social visit passes (You cannot clear household goods).
- Those hoping to import cars tax-free (This perk is gone).
Part 1: Ship from Dubai or Buy in Malaysia?
Malaysia has affordable local furniture, but high-quality imported brands are pricey.
The Decision Matrix: What to Pack
| Item Type | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| High-Quality Furniture | ✅ Ship It | Solid wood furniture is expensive in Malaysia. UAE furniture lasts well. |
| Winter Clothes | ❌ Sell in UAE | Malaysia is tropical (27°C+ year-round). You will never need a coat. |
| Kitchen Appliances | ✅ Ship It | Voltage is compatible (240V). High-end brands (Bosch/Siemens) are cheaper in UAE. |
| Alcohol | ❌ Drink or Gift It | Malaysia taxes alcohol heavily. Do not ship wine/spirits. |
| Cars | ❌ Sell in UAE | Import duties are punitive (>100%). Buy a local car (Perodua/Honda). |
Part 2: How Much Does It Cost to Move from UAE to Malaysia? (2026)
Shipments typically enter via Port Klang (for KL) or Penang.
Why Port Klang: It handles the majority of personal effects shipments in Malaysia and has the most experienced officers for MM2H and Employment Pass clearances.
Estimated Sea Freight Costs
| Home Size | Shipment Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed | LCL (Shared Container) | 6,500 – 10,000 |
| 2-3 Bed Home | 20ft Container (FCL) | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Large Villa (4+ Bed) | 40ft Container (FCL) | 22,000 – 30,000 |
In summary: Most full household moves from the UAE to Malaysia cost between AED 6,500 and AED 18,000 door-to-door. Moves to East Malaysia (Borneo) will cost approx. 30% more due to transshipment.
What These Costs Include (and Exclude)
Included:
- Export packing in UAE
- Sea freight to Malaysia
- Destination handling
- Standard customs clearance
- Delivery to residence
Not Included:
- Insurance (≈2–3% of declared value)
- Port storage (if your visa is not ready upon arrival)
- Redelivery surcharges for condos without service lifts
Part 3: Visas & The "Borneo" Hack
Before you move, you need a visa. The landscape has split into Federal vs State programs.
1. Federal MM2H (New 2025 Tiers)
- Silver: Fixed Deposit USD 150,000. Must buy property worth RM 600k+.
- Gold: Fixed Deposit USD 500,000. Must buy property worth RM 1m+.
- Platinum: Fixed Deposit USD 1m. Can work/invest.
2. The "Borneo Option" (S-MM2H & SBH-MM2H)
Sarawak (S-MM2H) and Sabah have their own programs which are often cheaper and easier.
- Requirements: Often lower Fixed Deposits (e.g., RM 150k for Sabah) and lower age limits (30+ for Sarawak).
- Catch: You may need to reside in Borneo for 30 days/year.
3. DE Rantau (Digital Nomad)
- Income: USD 24,000/year.
- Contract: Must have a foreign (non-Malaysian) employment contract.
- Duration: 12 months (Renewable for another 12).
Part 4: Customs & The "6-Month Rule"
You can import your goods duty-free if you follow the rules.
How to Qualify:
- Valid Visa: You must have your Employment Pass or MM2H visa stamped before the goods arrive.
- 6-Month Ownership: You must have owned the items for at least 6 months.
- No Cars: Do not attempt to ship a car thinking it is tax-free. It is not.
Do You Need to Be in Malaysia for Clearance?
Yes. Malaysian customs typically require the consignee to be physically present (or represented by a Power of Attorney) during inspection. Do not ship your goods unless:
- Your visa is stamped, AND
- You can enter Malaysia before the vessel arrives.
Essential Documents Checklist:
- Passport Copy (All pages)
- Visa Copy (MM2H / Employment Pass)
- Letter of Employment (For work visa holders)
- Detailed Packing List (No "Misc" boxes)
- Bill of Lading (From mover)
Part 5: Typical Timeline: UAE → Malaysia Move
- Week 0–4: Apply for Visa (MM2H approval takes 2-4 months).
- Week 5: Book movers & Pack in UAE.
- Week 6–10: Sea transit to Port Klang.
- Week 11: Customs clearance (Presence in Malaysia required).
- Week 12: Final Delivery.
Conclusion: A Smooth Start
Moving to Malaysia is an affordable luxury, but the visa rules are complex. The key is choosing the right program (Federal vs. Borneo) and leaving your car in the UAE.
This guide is regularly referenced by MM2H agents, digital nomad communities, and international movers handling UAE–Malaysia transfers.
Don't let visa rules surprise you. Compare quotes from movers experienced with MM2H, DE Rantau, and Port Klang personal-effects clearance.