Seamless International Moving to UAE
Relocation Services to Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Beyond
Are you planning to move to the UAE for a new job, a business opportunity, or simply a fresh start? Whether you’re relocating from USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, or the GCC, your international move deserves expert planning and execution. At ISS Relocations, we specialize in door-to-door international relocation services to the UAE, handling every detail—from secure packing and shipping to customs clearance and settlement support.
With years of experience managing global relocations, our team ensures your transition to the UAE is smooth, stress-free, and fully compliant with local laws and procedures. Let’s move your future, together.
ISS Relocations’ team is considered the best moving company in UAE to help you move all your belongings stress-free. Things we help you move to UAE are.
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APARTMENT MOVING
The main factor for the success of any apartment relocation in the United Arab Emirates is finding the right moving company in UAE to generate a solid project plan and manage it. ISS Relocations is a one-stop solution when you wish to moving to UAE from UK.
OFFICE MOVING
Deciding to relocate your office to UAE can be the right opportunity to attract enterprise-level clients along with high calibre talent. The major benefit of moving to UAE in a new office will help with a more efficient workflow.
PET RELOCATION
You need thorough planning in advance to relocate your pet to UAE. ISS Relocations is a reliable and professional pet moving company UAE that renders personalised moves for your dearest pets.
PIANO MOVING
Leaving behind a piece that is very close to your heart will leave you shattered. ISS Relocations is a professional piano moving company that will help you move your piano to UAE.
| Capital | Time Zone | Currency | Population | Official Language | Dialling Code | Emergency Number | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | GMT +4:00 | Dirham AED | 10,103,810 | Arabic | +971 | 999 | On the right side |
Our Moving to UAE Services Include:
Tailored End-to-End Relocation Solutions That Put You First
Relocating to the UAE from another country involves more than just shipping boxes — it’s a complex process that demands careful coordination, legal compliance, and personalized support. At ISS Relocations, we provide a comprehensive suite of international moving services to the UAE, designed to simplify every stage of your journey. Whether you’re an expat moving for work, a family relocating for a better lifestyle, or a business transferring employees, our services are crafted to match your unique needs. From expertly packed household goods to pet relocation, car shipping, and post-arrival assistance — we handle it all, so you can settle in with confidence.
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International household goods moving
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Secure packing & unpacking services
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Car shipping to UAE
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Pet relocation with IATA-compliant travel
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Air, sea, and land freight options
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Customs clearance assistance
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Short and long-term storage
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Transit insurance
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Post-arrival support (unpacking, orientation, home search)
ISS Relocations offers moving services to and from UAE to:
Oman Qatar Bahrain Saudi Arabia Kuwait India
Your Stress-Free Move to the UAE Begins Here
Let ISS Relocations handle your move to the UAE with expert care. From global packing and shipping to customs and delivery, we simplify the process so you can arrive ready to explore your new life.
Visa’s Requirements While Moving to UAE
Moving to UAE is relatively easy for ex-pats. The Abu Dhabi Residents Office helps ex-pats settle in Abu Dhabi. It allows them to integrate with society and culture with ease. This office can also find intelligent services for welcome guides, engagement programs, and visa applications. UAE, just like its neighbouring Gulf countries, follows the sponsorship program.
If you want to settle in the UAE for a long time, you must apply for an Entry Visa. An entry permit or entry visa allows foreign nationals to enter the UAE for a short period. Your sponsor is responsible for applying for an entry visa for you and handling all the related formalities.
The employment entry visa allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 2 months, and this time period can be extended for another 30 days, twice. The above visa rules, of course, don’t apply to foreign nationals hailing from GCC member states or the people accompanying the foreign nationals from these GCC member states.
For non-GCC nationals, once you have entered UAE with the help of your entry visa, you can go on to apply for your residence visa. Your sponsor shall help you apply for your residence visa too. The last visa you need to apply for will be your work visa.
Before applying for a visa, it is better to know which visa to apply for. Our visa consultants and experts can make this easy for you by providing you guidance on the visa requirements and by guiding you through the process. We can help you emigrate to UAE and make the process easier.
Following is a list of visas provided by the UAE:
- Entry Visa: An Entry visa allows you to stay in the UAE for a short time. This visa is issued for various purposes, including tourism, education, employment, treatment, mission, transit, family visits, and attending conferences.
- Family Visa: This is for the families of the ex-pats. Ex-pats can sponsor their families as long as they have a residence visa.
- Work Visa: You need to apply for a work visa once you have obtained your entry visa, residence visa, Emirate ID card, and secured a job in UAE. Your employer will act as your sponsor and file for your visa.
- Residence Visa: Once you receive your entry visa, you need to apply for a residence visa. Your sponsor shall apply on your behalf and pay for the costs.
The visa requirements of the UAE are the easiest to fulfil compared to other Middle Eastern nations. You need to submit the following documents to your sponsor company to apply for your residence visa and work visa:
- Application form
- Original passport
- Photocopy of your passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Emirates ID card
- Entry permit issued by the Ministry of Labour
- Copy of company card
- Commercial licence of the company you are employed with
- Medical check
- Health certificate
Following are the visa fees applied on various types of visas:
| Type of Visa | Fees |
| Family Visa | 100 AED |
| Emirate ID | 270 AED |
| Freelance Visa |
If you want to relocate to UAE, you first must apply for an entry permit. This permit can be for various purposes like employment, education, mission, tourism, medical treatment, etc. If you apply for a work entry permit, your sponsor will most likely be your company. Your company will apply for an entry permit on your behalf.
You need to submit the documents mentioned above to receive your entry permit. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security is responsible for issuing your entry permit. Once you have received your work permit, you can apply for a residence visa.
Your sponsor will help you apply for a work visa, and a residence visa and only those sponsors who meet the GDRFA’s requirements are allowed to apply for a residence visa. After filling out the application form, you need to undergo a medical application and a security check.
The validity period of a residence visa depends on the visa type and your sponsor. You can apply for an entry visa, work visa, and residence visa through Amer centres, typing centres in Dubai, online portals of the UAE government, the official website of GDRFA, or the Dubai Now mobile app. Your sponsor company covers all the costs related to your visas.
Once you receive your residence visa, you can travel freely in and out of UAE until the residence permit is valid. However, your travel period can’t exceed six months, or else your visa will be cancelled. After obtaining your residence visa, you need to get your Emirate ID and, at last, apply for a work visa or labour card.
It would be best if you had a valid job offer from a native UAE company. Then your sponsor will apply for a work visa for you. You also need to submit the documents as mentioned above for verification. After that, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) issues the labour cards.
These work permits are usually valid for up to 2 years. Ensure all your documents are submitted in Arabic, including your job offer. You also need to submit three copies of your employment contract.
Apart from the regular work visa, there is another long-term visa that you could apply for. It is called the Golden visa and is a long-term residence visa that is issued to foreign talents who want to work and live in the UAE.
Some of the people who can apply for a golden visa are engineering and science specialists, creative arts specialists, investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, humanitarian pioneers, frontline heroes, and outstanding students and graduates. This visa is issued to attract talents and professionals that can help with the development and growth of the country.
Some benefits of a golden visa are that you don’t need a sponsor, the visa is valid for 10 years, you can stay outside Dubai for however long you want, and many more. You can apply for this visa through online portals and Amer services. Are you looking for good movers and packers in UAE? Contact ISS today to avail of our moving services.
More Than Movers - We're Your Relocation Partners
Most Popular Cities To Live In UAE
Mesmerizing the world with its impressive coastline, skyscrapers, posh hotels and fancy malls, the United Arab Emirates is undoubtedly a part of everyone’s bucket list. Home to some of the world’s best hotels and resorts, UAE is an incredible architectural gallery. The UAE has an aura that draws people to this land and spoils the movers with the nature reserve and the famous man-made islands. Here is a list of famous cities in the UAE you can move to, to enjoy all the luxuries the land has to offer.
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Moving to Dubai
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Moving to Abu Dhabi
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Moving to Sharjah
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Moving to Ras Al Khaimah
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Moving to Ajman
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Moving to Al Ain
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Moving to Fujairah
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Moving to Kalba
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Moving to Umm Al Quwain
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Moving to Ghayathi
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Moving to Khor Fakkan
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Moving to Dhaid
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Moving to Al Madam
Comprehensive Guide on Moving to UAE
Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Relocation – Backed by ISS Relocations
Relocating to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an exciting step — whether you’re drawn by a new career opportunity, business expansion, or a lifestyle upgrade in cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. But an international move can be complex without the right guidance. From understanding customs regulations to navigating visa processes and settling into a new home, you need more than a shipping company — you need a full-service partner. This detailed guide walks you through every step of the process and shows you how ISS Relocations simplifies the entire experience with our end-to-end international relocation services to the UAE.
Cost of Moving to the UAE
The cost of relocating to the UAE depends on several key factors, including your origin country, volume of goods, transport mode, and service level. At ISS Relocations, we provide clear, customized quotes—no hidden fees, just efficient service.
Key Cost Factors:
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Origin Country: Closer locations (e.g., GCC) are more economical than overseas moves.
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Volume & Weight: Larger shipments cost more; we help you optimize space.
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Transport Mode:
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Air Freight – Fastest, higher cost
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Sea Freight – Best for full household moves
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Land Freight – Ideal for GCC relocations
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Additional Services: Packing, storage, pet or car relocation, insurance, etc.
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Customs & Paperwork: Some items need import permits or clearance fees.
Why Choose ISS Relocations?
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Free pre-move survey & expert advice
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End-to-end service: packing to customs
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Transparent, competitive pricing
Housing System In UAE
Whether you are moving to UAE from UK to set up a business or simply looking for better job prospects, it is helpful to have a good idea of what the cost of living in the UAE is before you move here. Although the cost of living has risen significantly during the past decade, UAE always wishes to attract more people from all over the world to do business. You certainly won’t feel out of place as an expat – as locals are renowned for being welcoming. When it comes to living comfortably and luxuriously, many expats can enjoy villas- a famous housing facility in the UAE.
However, foreign property ownership is permitted only in free zone areas of the UAE. Expats usually live there on rent which can be addressed as follows:
| Type of Apartment | Cost of Rent Per Month |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | AED 5,140 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of Centre | AED 3,280 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | AED 9,760 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of Centre | AED 6,790 |
HealthCare System In UAE
The public healthcare system of the UAE is only available to native citizens. Therefore, ex-pats need to get themselves health insurance. Ex-pats can also apply for a Health card if they wish to avail public healthcare benefits.
The Ministry of Health issues this card. In addition, many companies in the UAE also provide their employees with private healthcare coverage. As a result, the healthcare industry in the UAE is flourishing and advanced.
Taxation System In UAE
There is minimal taxation in UAE, and tax on utilities is also slightly cheaper. Moreover, there is zero tax on income which means no income tax to pay, and you can keep your paycheck amount as it is. In addition, there is only a 5% tax levied on certain goods and services, which is the world’s lowest tax percentage.
Are you planning to relocate to UAE and looking for warehousing in UAE? Contact us to avail of our services. We are a relocating and moving company who can make moving easier for you without any stress.
Education System In UAE
All education institutes come under the UAE Ministry of education. However, education is free for natives. Ex-pats must pay for their child’s education in public and private schools. All children between 6- to 18 compulsorily need to attend school. There are public schools where the first language choice is Arabic and the second language choice is English.
If ex-pats want their children to study according to their home country’s school system, then that facility is also provided in international schools. Students are free to apply for their desired university or vocational education institutes after completing their secondary education. The school system in UAE has 4 parts:
| Kindergarten | Primary | Preparatory Stage | Secondary |
| 4-5 years | 6-11 years | 12-14 years | 15-17 years |
| Not Compulsory | Compulsory | Compulsory | Compulsory |
Work Market In UAE
Many international companies and MNCs have their Middle East offices in the UAE. This increases not only job opportunities but also job quality and salaries. Due to this, there are various job opportunities in the UAE for ex-pats.
Ex-pats need to be prepared to work for 40 to 48 hours per week in the UAE, and the work week starts from Sunday and lasts till Thursday. This is because the UAE is a Muslim country, and Friday is their holy day.
The minimum wage of an ex-pat in the UAE is about 3,270 USD. It is also easier to become self-employed in the UAE or work as a freelancer in free zones. You can easily find work as a freelancer in the UAE, and it is also a popular profession among many ex-pats.
If you are planning to move to UAE, we can help you with your documentation and relocation. Our relocation professionals are skilled and work with ease. In addition, we ensure the safety of your goods and provide various services like pet relocation, office moving, and much more.
Countries We Serve – Move to UAE from Anywhere in the World
Whether you’re moving from across the ocean or the neighboring Gulf region, we’ve got you covered. ISS Relocations offers end-to-end moving services to the UAE from the following countries and more:
USA & Canada
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Full-service relocation from cities like New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles
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Freight options: Sea, air, or consolidated shipping
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Document authentication and visa support
Australia & New Zealand
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Secure shipping of personal items, cars & pets
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Support with customs clearance in UAE
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Coordination with movers in Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland
Europe (France, Netherlands, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland)
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Hassle-free relocation services for professionals and families
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Pet relocation & car shipping from Schengen countries
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Local compliance and destination support in UAE
South Asia & GCC
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Popular routes for moving from India, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, Oman & Qatar
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Fast-track customs clearance and visa coordination
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Short/long-term storage available in Dubai & Sharjah
Singapore & Malaysia
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Air and sea shipping from Southeast Asia to UAE
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Office relocations, pet and vehicle transport, and home search services
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On-ground support at both origin and destination
Moving to UAE Checklist
Relocating to the UAE from overseas involves more than just packing your bags. It requires structured planning, legal documentation, customs preparation, and emotional readiness. Whether you’re moving from the USA, Canada, Europe, or neighboring GCC countries, having a clear checklist will ensure you don’t miss any crucial steps.
Below is a categorized and easy-to-follow checklist created by ISS Relocations experts to help you prepare for a successful transition to your new life in the UAE.
Essentials to Keep Your Relocation on Track
Before the Move:
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Organize passports, visas & important documents
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Get a moving quote from ISS Relocations
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Sort and declutter your belongings
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Inform your bank, employer & utility providers
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Arrange temporary accommodation in UAE
During the Move:
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Let ISS Relocations pack and ship your items
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Prepare pets and vehicles (if applicable)
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Finalize customs paperwork and shipping insurance
After Arrival in UAE:
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Complete Emirates ID & visa formalities
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Receive and unpack your shipment
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Set up local utilities, mobile & bank account
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Explore housing, schools & local services
Settling In After Arrival in the UAE
Personalized Post-Move Support to Help You Feel at Home Faster
Relocating doesn’t end when your shipment arrives — it’s just the beginning of your new life in the UAE. At ISS Relocations, our support extends beyond transportation. We help you settle in smoothly, offering practical assistance and personalized solutions that make your transition stress-free and comfortable.
Whether you’ve moved to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, our post-move services are designed to help you adapt, organize, and feel at home from day one.
Our Post-Move Support Includes:
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Professional Unpacking & Furniture Reassembly
We unpack your items, reassemble your furniture, and place everything where you want it — so you can enjoy your new space without the hassle. -
Secure Short & Long-Term Storage Options
Not ready to move everything in at once? We offer safe and climate-controlled storage facilities across the UAE to store your belongings until you’re ready. -
Home & School Search Assistance
We guide you through UAE’s top residential areas and help you find homes and international schools that suit your lifestyle and budget. -
City Orientation Tours (On Request)
Get familiar with your new surroundings — discover key landmarks, neighborhoods, public transport routes, shopping areas, and cultural etiquette. -
Pet Delivery & Customs Handover
If your pets are arriving separately, we coordinate final delivery from the airport and handle all customs procedures for a smooth reunion.
ISS Relocations goes beyond logistics — we help you build a new life, not just move your belongings.
Moving To UAE? Start Your Stress-Free Move Now!
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
How long does it take to move to the UAE from overseas?
The timeline depends on your origin country, shipping method, and customs clearance. Typically, air freight takes 7–14 days, while sea freight can take 3–6 weeks. ISS Relocations ensures timely pickups, efficient customs processing, and real-time tracking. Our team helps you plan ahead so you can arrive and settle in stress-free while your shipment is handled professionally from door to door.
What items can I bring when relocating to the UAE?
You can bring most personal and household items, including electronics, furniture, and clothing. However, items like alcohol, medications, or religious materials may require approval or are restricted. With ISS Relocations, you’ll receive clear guidance on customs compliance and documentation to avoid delays or penalties. We help you prepare a complete inventory and handle clearance on your behalf.
How much does it cost to move to the UAE?
Costs vary based on shipment size, transport mode (air/sea/land), and origin country. For example, a small move from India may cost around $1,200, while a villa move from Canada could reach $10,000 or more. At ISS Relocations, we provide transparent, customized quotes tailored to your exact needs—no hidden fees. Our experts will guide you on optimizing shipment size to balance cost and efficiency.
Can ISS Relocations help with my visa or residency process?
While we are not a visa agency, ISS Relocations supports clients by coordinating with HR teams or legal consultants to ensure your documents are in order. We guide you on timelines, required documents, and formalities so you’re prepared for Emirates ID, visa stamping, and medical screening. Our relocation specialists are familiar with UAE procedures and can help you navigate every step post-arrival.
Do you offer temporary storage if I’m not ready to move in?
Yes, we offer short and long-term storage facilities across the UAE. Our warehouses are clean, secure, climate-controlled, and ideal if your new home isn’t ready or you’re still finalizing arrangements. Whether you need to store items for a few days or several months, ISS Relocations ensures your belongings remain safe and accessible until you’re ready to receive them.
Can you relocate pets or vehicles to the UAE?
Absolutely. ISS Relocations offers specialized pet relocation and vehicle shipping services. We handle everything from veterinary checks, crate preparation, and IATA-compliant pet travel to vehicle inspection, customs clearance, and delivery. Our team ensures your pets arrive safely and your car is transported legally and efficiently—all with the same door-to-door care we provide for household goods.
How do I track my shipment while moving to the UAE?
With ISS Relocations, you’ll receive regular updates and have access to shipment tracking throughout the journey. Our dedicated move coordinators keep you informed at each key stage—from pickup and loading to customs clearance and delivery in the UAE. We prioritize clear communication and peace of mind, so you’re never left guessing where your belongings are.
Why should I choose ISS Relocations for my UAE move?
ISS Relocations is more than a mover—we’re a relocation partner. With over 20 years of experience, a global network, and deep local expertise, we offer end-to-end services including packing, freight, customs clearance, storage, pet transport, and more. We tailor solutions to your needs, ensure compliance with UAE regulations, and provide peace of mind from the first call to final delivery.
Our Membership & Affiliation
