Download the GCC Relocation Index 2026: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
The GCC Relocation Index 2026 is ISS Relocations’ annual research publication covering international moving costs, shipping transit times, customs requirements, seasonal trends, and logistics intelligence across the GCC.
Built using operational insights from more than 100,000 international relocations managed since 1996, the report helps individuals, families, HR teams, and mobility professionals plan moves with greater confidence.
Inside this year’s report
- International transit times across 20+ relocation corridors
- Moving cost benchmarks for sea, air, and road freight
- Customs clearance requirements by destination
- Seasonal shipping trends
- 2026 shipping route updates
- GCC and international relocation insights
Why This Report Matters
Planning an international move involves more than obtaining a shipping quotation. Transit times, customs documentation, route disruptions, seasonal demand, and destination-specific regulations can significantly affect the moving experience. The GCC Relocation Index combines operational relocation data with current shipping intelligence to provide realistic expectations for international and regional moves. Whether you’re relocating from Dubai to London, Riyadh to Toronto, or Doha to Sydney, this report provides benchmark data to support better planning and informed decision-making.
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FAQs – GCC Relocation Index 2026
What is the GCC Relocation Index 2026?
The GCC Relocation Index 2026 is ISS Relocations’ annual research publication that provides benchmark data on international moving costs, transit times, customs requirements, seasonal trends, and logistics updates for relocations to, from, and within the GCC. It is based on operational experience from more than 100,000 international relocations and current shipping market intelligence.
Who should use the GCC Relocation Index?
The report is designed for individuals, families, expatriates, HR professionals, corporate mobility teams, relocation managers, and businesses planning international or intra-GCC moves. It helps users understand expected costs, shipping timelines, customs requirements, and destination-specific relocation considerations.
Which countries are covered in the GCC Relocation Index?
The report covers relocation corridors between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, as well as major international destinations including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, India, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.
What information does the GCC Relocation Index include?
The report includes international transit time benchmarks, moving cost estimates, customs clearance requirements, seasonal moving trends, route disruption updates, logistics intelligence, and planning recommendations for international relocations.
How often is the GCC Relocation Index updated?
The GCC Relocation Index is published annually to reflect the latest shipping routes, customs regulations, relocation costs, and logistics developments affecting international moves.
How long does sea freight from Dubai to the UK take?
According to the 2026 benchmark data, sea freight from Dubai to the UK typically takes 18 to 25 days port-to-port, while a complete door-to-door relocation generally takes around 30 to 40 days, depending on customs clearance and final delivery.
What is the average transit time for moving from the UAE to Canada?
Most international household shipments from the UAE to Canada take approximately 28 to 42 days by sea, with total door-to-door delivery depending on customs processing and the final destination city.
Which international relocation routes are the most affordable from the GCC?
Among the corridors covered in the report, relocations from the UAE to India and Sri Lanka generally have the lowest transportation costs due to shorter transit distances, while intra-GCC road freight also offers a cost-effective option for regional moves.
Which destinations usually have the highest relocation costs?
Long-haul destinations such as the USA and Canada generally involve higher relocation costs due to greater shipping distances, longer transit times, and more complex logistics requirements.
Does the report explain customs requirements for different countries?
Yes. The report includes destination-specific customs guidance, required documentation, duty exemptions, expected clearance timelines, and common causes of customs delays for major relocation destinations.
Are used household goods usually exempt from customs duty?
Many countries allow duty-free import of used household goods for eligible relocating residents, provided the required documentation and residency conditions are met. However, customs rules vary by destination, so applicants should always review the specific requirements before shipping.
Which destination has the most complex customs clearance process?
Among the destinations covered in the report, Australia and India generally require more detailed customs and inspection procedures, making advance preparation especially important for a smooth relocation.
When is the best time to plan an international move from the GCC?
The report identifies September through November as one of the most favourable periods for international relocations due to lower demand, better shipping availability, and more competitive freight rates compared with the summer peak season.
