Moving to Philippines from UAE | A Relocation Guide

Introduction: Your Journey Home to the Archipelago

For many Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates, the dream of returning home—a "balikbayan" journey—is a cherished goal. Relocating from the deserts of the UAE to the tropical, vibrant archipelago of the Philippines is a significant life event, a return to family, familiar culture, and the warmth of home. However, the process of moving an entire household requires careful planning, especially when it comes to navigating shipping logistics and the specific customs regulations of the Philippines.

This guide is designed to be the essential resource for those moving from the UAE to the Philippines. We will cover the key information you need, from understanding the valuable Balikbayan privileges and estimating shipping costs to clearing customs in Manila and settling back into life in the Philippines. With proper preparation, your homecoming can be as joyful and stress-free as you envision it.

Part 1: Visas and Residency - The Balikbayan Privilege

Understanding your entry status is the first step in your relocation plan.

For Filipino Citizens: As a Filipino passport holder, you have the right to return and reside in the Philippines at any time.
For Foreign Spouses and Children (The Balikbayan Program): The Philippines has a generous "Balikbayan Privilege" (R.A. 6768). Under this program, a foreign spouse or child of a Filipino citizen who is traveling with them can enter the Philippines visa-free for an initial period of one year. They can then apply for longer-term residency from within the country.
For Other Foreign Nationals: Expats without familial ties to a Filipino citizen will need to secure an appropriate long-term visa, such as a work visa or a Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV), before planning their move.

Part 2: Shipping Your Belongings from UAE to the Philippines

Sea freight is the most common and economical method for shipping household goods.

Main Port: Most shipments arrive at the Port of Manila, the country's primary cargo hub.
Transit Time: The door-to-door transit time for a sea shipment from the UAE to the Philippines is typically 4 to 6 weeks.
Shipping Options:
- LCL (Less than Container Load): Often referred to as "balikbayan box" shipping on a larger scale. This is ideal for smaller moves where you share container space.
- FCL (Full Container Load): An exclusive 20ft or 40ft container is more secure and better value for larger family moves (contents of a 2-3 bedroom home).

Estimated Shipping Costs (UAE to Manila)

Shared Container (LCL) - 5 cbm

Estimated Cost: 7,000 - 11,000 AED
Best For: A studio apartment or a large number of personal effects.

20ft Full Container (FCL)

Estimated Cost: 13,000 - 19,000 AED
Best For: A full 2-3 bedroom home.

To get an instant estimate of your shipment volume, use our free Moving Volume Calculator.

Part 3: Navigating Philippine Customs

This is a critical part of the moving process. Under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), returning Filipinos who meet certain criteria can import their used personal and household effects duty- and tax-free.

Key Conditions for Duty-Free Import:

You must be a "Returning Resident," which typically means a Filipino citizen who has worked and resided abroad for at least one year.
The goods must be your personal and household effects.
The items must have been owned and used by you for at least 6 months prior to shipping.
The shipment must be imported within a specific timeframe of your return to the Philippines.

Important Note on Balikbayan Boxes: The rules for household goods shipments (larger-scale moves) are different and more stringent than those for standard, small balikbayan boxes sent via cargo companies. For a full household move, you must use a professional international mover.

Essential Documents for Customs:

Your moving company will require a full set of documents to clear your shipment through the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Copy of your Philippine Passport.
A detailed inventory list (packing list), signed and valued.
Proof of your residence and employment in the UAE (e.g., employment contract, visa cancellation).
Bill of Lading (from the shipping line).

Prohibited & Restricted Items:

Prohibited: Narcotics, firearms, gambling machines, and materials deemed obscene or subversive.
Restricted: All plants, animals, and food products require special permits. It is best not to ship any food items. Used electronics must be declared accurately.

FAQs: Moving from the UAE to the Philippines

1. Is it better to ship my appliances or buy new in the Philippines? The Philippines uses 220V, which is the same as the UAE, so your appliances will work without a voltage converter. If you have good quality appliances, it is generally worthwhile to ship them.

2. Can I ship my car from the UAE to the Philippines? It is generally not advisable. The Philippines has very high duties and taxes on imported vehicles, which can often make it more expensive than buying a new or used car locally. The process is also bureaucratically complex.

3. Do I need to be in the Philippines when my shipment arrives? Yes, your presence is generally required to clear the shipment. You will need to present your original passport and other documents to the customs authorities.

4. What's the best way to ensure my items are packed safely? For an international move, professional packing is essential. This is not only to protect your goods during the long sea journey but is also a requirement for most "All-Risk" moving insurance policies. Learn more in our Moving Insurance Explained guide.

Conclusion: A Smooth Homecoming

Moving back to the Philippines is a rewarding journey. The key to a smooth relocation is careful preparation, especially with your customs documentation, and partnering with a reputable international mover who is experienced with the procedures at the Port of Manila. This will allow you to focus on the excitement of your homecoming and reconnecting with family and friends.

Ready to start planning your move to the Philippines?

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A Guide to Moving from UAE to the Philippines