Moving from UAE to Morocco (2026): Visas, Costs & The "CCR" Certificate
MoveConnector North Africa Team
Relocation Expert
Introduction: Your Gateway to North Africa
Moving from the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Morocco is a journey into a land of rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you are a returning national (MRE) heading to Casablanca or an expat retiring in Marrakech, the transition requires careful planning.
Moroccan customs (Douane) is strict, specifically regarding political materials and electronic devices. This guide is based on real relocations handled by MoveConnector partner movers delivering into Casablanca, Rabat, and Tangier.
Who This Guide Is For
- Returning Moroccan Nationals (MREs) repotriating from the Gulf.
- Expats moving for work or retirement.
- Diplomats stationed in Rabat.
This guide is NOT for:
- Tourists (You cannot clear household goods).
- Commercial importers.
Part 1: Ship from Dubai or Buy in Morocco?
Morocco has excellent artisan furniture, but imported electronics and modern appliances are heavily taxed.
The Decision Matrix: What to Pack
| Item Type | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Appliances | ✅ Ship It | High-quality fridges/TVs are 30% cheaper in Dubai. |
| Carpets/Rugs | ❌ Leave It | Morocco is famous for rugs. Buy local handmade pieces instead. |
| Drones | ❌ Do Not Ship | Confiscation Risk. Drones are strictly banned. |
| Books/Maps | ⚠️ Check Content | Any map/globe showing "Western Sahara" as a separate country will be confiscated. |
| Cars (<5 Years) | ✅ Ship It | Used car prices in Morocco are high. Worth shipping if compliant. |
Part 2: How Much Does It Cost to Move from UAE to Morocco? (2026)
Most shipments enter via the Port of Casablanca and are trucked to other cities.
Why Casablanca: It is Morocco’s primary household-goods port, with the most experienced customs teams for CCR-based clearances. Other ports often redirect personal effects shipments here to ensure proper processing.
Estimated Sea Freight Costs
| Home Size | Shipment Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed | LCL (Shared Container) | 8,500 – 13,000 |
| 2-3 Bed Home | 20ft Container (FCL) | 17,000 – 25,000 |
| Large Villa (4+ Bed) | 40ft Container (FCL) | 28,000 – 38,000 |
In summary: Most full household moves from the UAE to Morocco cost between AED 11,000 and AED 25,000 door-to-door.
> Note: These estimates exclude insurance (approx. 2.5%), customs inspection fees, and potential delivery surcharges for the Medina (old city) where trucks cannot enter.
Part 3: Customs & The "CCR" vs. "Carte de Séjour"
The rules differ depending on your nationality.
1. Returning Moroccan Nationals (MRE)
You must obtain a CCR (Certificat de Changement de Résidence) from the Moroccan Consulate in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
- Requirement: Proof you have lived in the UAE for at least 1 year (Visa stamps, utility bills).
- Benefit: Duty-free import of household goods and (for retirees aged 60+) a 90% tax reduction on one imported car.
Important: What the CCR Does — and Does NOT Do
The CCR allows duty-free import of used household goods. It does NOT automatically exempt:
- Brand-new items (especially electronics in boxes)
- Commercial quantities of goods
- Alcohol or restricted electronics > Customs officers may still assess duty on items that appear unused or excessive.
2. Foreign Expats
You rely on your Carte de Séjour (Residence Permit).
- The Catch: You cannot clear customs with just a visa. You usually need the actual Residence Card or the official filing receipt (
Récépissé de demande). - Timing: Do not ship your goods until your residency application is lodged in Morocco.
Customs Inspection Reality in Morocco
Physical inspections are common. Customs officers may:
- Open multiple boxes to verify contents.
- Question high-value electronics.
- Request clarification on books, documents, or printed material (checking for political sensitivity). > Having a clear, detailed inventory in French or Arabic significantly speeds up clearance.
Part 4: The "5-Year Rule" for Cars
Morocco protects its local car market.
- Age Limit: You generally cannot import a car older than 5 years permanently.
- Retiree Exception: Returning Moroccans aged 60+ who have lived abroad for 10 years can import an older car with a 90% customs duty reduction.
- Expats: Taxes on cars are high (often 27% + VAT). It is usually better to buy locally unless you have Diplomatic status.
Part 5: Morocco Pre-Shipping Checklist
Before booking your move, ensure you have ticked these critical boxes:
- CCR or Carte de Séjour: Issued or officially applied for (not just "planned").
- Drones & Walkie-Talkies: Removed from shipment (Strictly banned).
- Maps/Books: Checked for political sensitivity (Western Sahara borders).
- Car Age: Verified manufacture year is <5 years (unless Retiree exemption applies).
- Inventory: Written in clear, non-generic terms (French/Arabic preferred).
Conclusion: A Well-Planned Adventure
Moving to Morocco is a rewarding experience, but customs can be unpredictable. The key is ensuring your CCR or Residence Permit is ready before the ship arrives to avoid port storage fees.
Don't let customs delays surprise you. Compare quotes from movers experienced with Moroccan customs, CCR clearance, and port inspections in Casablanca.