Dubai Moving Guide
Moving House in Dubai: The Complete Checklist (2026)
Quick answerTo move house in Dubai: book your movers 2–4 weeks ahead, apply for building or community move permits, book the service lift, arrange DEWA move-out and move-in, update or register Ejari for the new tenancy, pack room by room, and keep documents and valuables with you on moving day.
Moving in Dubai has a few local steps that catch people out — especially building permits, service-lift slots and DEWA. Use this checklist to stay ahead.
4 weeks before moving
- Confirm your new tenancy or purchase dates and your old tenancy end date.
- Get moving quotes. Ask for a fixed written quote after a survey (in person or WhatsApp video).
- Book your movers — weekends and the last days of the month fill up first.
- Declutter: sell, donate or recycle what you do not want to move.
- Decide if you need storage for any overlap between tenancies.
2–3 weeks before
- Ask building or community management about move-out and move-in permits (sometimes called an NOC) and any deposits or documents required. See our permit and service lift guide.
- Request a service lift and loading bay slot for both buildings.
- Plan DEWA: apply for move-out at the old home and activation at the new home. See our DEWA & Ejari guide.
- Arrange internet transfer or new installation with your provider.
- Book a handyman for TV mounting and curtains at the new home.
1 week before
- Start packing non-essentials: books, decor, out-of-season clothes.
- Label boxes by room and contents.
- Confirm arrival time, parking and lift details with your movers.
- Update your address with banks, schools, insurers and delivery apps.
The day before
- Defrost and dry the fridge and freezer.
- Pack an essentials bag: documents, chargers, medicines, toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks and water.
- Set aside cash, jewellery and important documents to carry yourself.
- In summer, keep candles, electronics and anything heat-sensitive out of hot vehicles.
Moving day
- Meet the crew, walk through the home and point out fragile items.
- Check every room, cupboard and balcony before the truck leaves.
- Take meter photos and hand over keys or access cards as agreed.
- At the new home, tell the crew where each room’s boxes and furniture go.
After you move
- Unpack the kitchen, bedrooms and bathroom first.
- Confirm DEWA is active and keep the final bill for your old home.
- Follow up on your security deposit for the old property.
- Report any issues to your movers in writing promptly.
How much will it cost?
With Dubaitrustymovers, moves start from AED 750 for a studio, AED 1,000 for a 1-bedroom and AED 1,800 for a 2-bedroom (prices exclude VAT; T&C apply). See the full Dubai moving price guide or try the cost calculator.
FAQs
How early should I book movers in Dubai?
Two to four weeks ahead is ideal, especially for weekends, month-end dates and villas.
Do I need a permit to move in Dubai?
Most apartment buildings and many gated communities need a move permit or NOC from building or community management.
What should I pack myself?
Documents, cash, jewellery, medicines and anything sentimental or irreplaceable should travel with you.
Need help with your move? Get a fixed written quote from Dubaitrustymovers — call or WhatsApp 050 683 4708 or request a free quote.