The Dubai Moving Checklist
A simple, Dubai-specific checklist for a move that goes to plan — from permits and DEWA to the boxes you'll want open first on night one.
Short answer
The smoothest moves start 2–3 weeks ahead: book the mover and lift, sort the permit, move your DEWA and internet, and clear out what you don't need before you pack. On the day, keep an essentials box with you. After, check the list before the crew leaves.
2–3 weeks before
- Get quotes and book your mover and the service lift
- Start the move permit / NOC for both buildings
- Declutter — sell, donate or dispose of what you won't move
- Tell your landlord or agent and confirm handover dates
- Arrange DEWA, internet and chiller transfers for the new home
The week before
- Confirm the crew, date, lift slot and parking with the building
- Pack room by room and label every box by room and priority
- Photograph valuable and fragile items before they're wrapped
- Set aside an essentials box to keep with you on the day
- Back up devices and note serial numbers of electronics
On move day
- Walk the crew through fragile, special and priority items first
- Keep your essentials box and documents with you, not on the truck
- Check rooms, cupboards and balconies before the truck leaves
- Confirm the inventory and note any pre-existing damage
- Direct boxes to the right rooms at the new home to save time
After you arrive
- Check the inventory against what arrived before signing off
- Reassemble beds and essentials first, then unpack by priority
- Test appliances, power, water and internet
- Update your address with banks, RTA, deliveries and subscriptions
- Flag any damage to the mover promptly while it's documented
Questions, answered
Two to three weeks gives the best crew availability, avoids month-end premiums and leaves time for permits and utility transfers. Short-notice moves are possible but your options narrow.
Arrange the DEWA move-out at your old home and move-in at the new one a few days before the move, so power and water are live when you arrive. Keep your account and premises numbers handy.
Chargers, a change of clothes, toiletries, medication, basic tools, phone and key documents, plus snacks and water. Keep it with you, not on the truck.
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