Moving from UAE to Philippines (2026): Balikbayan Privileges & Container Costs
MoveConnector Asia-Pacific Team
Relocation Expert
Introduction: Your Journey Home to the Archipelago
For the thousands of Filipinos (Kabayan) in the UAE, the dream of returning home—a "Balikbayan" journey—is a cherished goal. Whether retiring to a farm in Batangas or moving to a condo in BGC, the transition is significant.
However, moving an entire household is different from sending a monthly Balikbayan Box. It involves complex logistics, especially if you are moving to an island destination like Cebu or Davao.
This guide is based on real relocations handled by MoveConnector partner movers delivering to Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao. We cover the essential steps for 2026, from the CMTA Tax Exemptions to the reality of inter-island shipping.
Why Moving to the Philippines Is Different from Other Countries
- Capped Exemptions: Tax exemptions are capped by law (not unlimited like in UK/EU).
- Commercial Quantity Rules: Having too many of one item overrides your personal exemption.
- Inter-Island Logistics: Delivery to Visayas/Mindanao adds a second, customs-controlled shipping leg.
- CMTA Enforcement: The Philippines rewards honesty. Under-declaring values often leads to inspections and fines.
Who This Guide Is For
- Returning OFWs shipping furniture and household goods.
- Expats/Retirees moving to the Philippines on SRRV visas.
- Families shipping more than 5 boxes.
This guide is frequently referenced by OFW support groups, relocation consultants, and international movers handling UAE–Philippines household shipments.
This guide is NOT for:
- Sending 1-2 standard Balikbayan Boxes (Use LBC/DHL for this).
- Commercial importers.
Part 1: "Balikbayan Box" vs. "International Move"
This is the #1 confusion point.
Balikbayan Box vs Full Household Move (Quick Comparison)
| Feature | Balikbayan Box | International Move |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Declaration | Minimal | Mandatory |
| Furniture Allowed | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Tax Exemption | Informal | CMTA-based |
| Best For | Gifts / Groceries | Full Relocation |
Rule of Thumb: If you are sending just clothes and canned goods, use a Balikbayan Box courier. If you are sending sofas, beds, TVs, and dining tables, you need an International Mover.
Part 2: How Much Does It Cost to Move from UAE to Philippines? (2026)
Shipping to Manila is affordable. Shipping to the provinces (Visayas/Mindanao) is expensive because the container must often be transferred to a domestic vessel.
Estimated Sea Freight Costs
| Home Size | Shipment Type | Est. Cost (Manila) | Est. Cost (Cebu/Davao) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed | LCL (Shared) | AED 7,000 – 11,000 | AED 9,000 – 14,000 |
| 2-3 Bed Home | 20ft Container | AED 13,000 – 19,000 | AED 18,000 – 25,000 |
| Large Villa | 40ft Container | AED 22,000 – 30,000 | AED 28,000 – 38,000 |
In summary: Most full household moves from the UAE to Manila cost between AED 13,000 and AED 19,000 door-to-door. Island deliveries add 30-40% to the cost.
> Note: Costs include packing, export/import clearance, and transport. They exclude insurance (approx. 2.5%) and duties if you exceed your exemption limit.
Part 3: Customs & The CMTA Tax Exemptions
Under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), Returning Residents (Balikbayans) are entitled to tax exemption on personal effects, but there are limits based on how long you lived abroad.
The 3 Exemption Tiers:
- Stayed abroad < 5 years: Tax exemption up to PHP 150,000 value.
- Stayed abroad 5 – 10 years: Tax exemption up to PHP 250,000 value.
- Stayed abroad > 10 years: Tax exemption up to PHP 350,000 value.
> If your shipment value exceeds these limits, you pay duties on the excess amount.
Essential Documents Checklist:
- Passport Copy (Bio page + Visa cancellation/exit stamp)
- Detailed Packing List (Valued in PHP)
- Affidavit of Undertaking (For tax exemption claim)
- Acceptance Letter (If donating goods to charity)
Part 4: Visas & Entry Privileges
1. The Balikbayan Privilege
Foreign spouses and children traveling with a Filipino citizen can enter the Philippines visa-free for 1 year. This gives you ample time to apply for a permanent resident visa (13a) once inside the country.
2. SRRV (Retirement Visa)
For non-Filipinos over 50 (or 35 in some cases), the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa is a popular option. It allows multiple entry privileges and tax-free import of household goods up to USD 7,000.
Part 5: Typical Timeline: UAE → Philippines Move
- Week 0–1: Quotation, inventory & packing in UAE.
- Week 2: Sea departure from Jebel Ali Port.
- Week 5–6: Arrival at Port of Manila (add 1-2 weeks for Cebu/Davao transshipment).
- Week 6–8: Customs clearance & final delivery. > Delays usually come from valuation reviews by customs, not shipping.
Conclusion: A Smooth Homecoming
Moving back to the Philippines is a rewarding journey. The key to success is understanding the CMTA tax limits and distinguishing between a "Balikbayan Box" courier and a professional "Household Goods" mover.
Don't let customs taxes surprise you. Compare quotes from movers who understand the CMTA law.