Over the past few years, there has been a clear trend: Qatari buyers are increasingly buying cars from UAE. But why is this happening? The UAE has established itself as a regional hub for automotive excellence. From luxury to sports cars and budget vehicles, the options available in the UAE far exceed what’s typically found in Qatar. Planning to buy a used car from the UAE to Qatar? Learn why Qatari citizens and residents prefer UAE cars, how to buy, export steps, documents, and best models in 2025. Whether the buyers are looking for the latest luxury SUV, a performance sedan, or a rugged pickup, the UAE’s vast market provides unbeatable variety.
In this article, we will explore some of the popular car brands that are in high demand by Qatari buyers, as well as the process and procedures for exporting vehicles from UAE to Qatar.
Growing UAE-to-Qatar Car Buying Trend in 2025
One of the top reasons Qatari nationals and residents prefer UAE cars is because the prices in the UAE are often more competitive, thanks to greater market volume and intense dealership competition. Buyers from Qatar also enjoy better access to limited editions and exclusive models, alongside more choices in trims, colors, and features.
Exporting cars from UAE to Qatar has become a smooth process, with dedicated export services and simplified customs procedures, making the car buying experience much easier than before. Qatari buyers looking for used cars for sale in the UAE can trust that UAE’s marketplace has a lot to offer, allowing every buyer to find a car of their dreams.
Ease of Export and Cross-Border Vehicle Procedures
Another key factor driving this trend is the simple and efficient process of exporting vehicles from the UAE to Qatar. Thanks to strong political and economic ties between the two countries, cross-border vehicle transactions have been streamlined.
Step-by-step Process for Buying a Car from UAE to Qatar:
For those who wish to buy used cars in the UAE for export to Qatar, the procedure generally includes:
- Obtaining export plates: Most dealerships, such as First Choice Cars, assist with arranging temporary export plates through the RTA.
- Export certificates: Issued by the UAE authorities, confirming the vehicle’s legal status and its eligibility for export.
- Vehicle inspection and deregistration: Before export, the car undergoes a final check to ensure there are no fines, loans, or legal issues.
- Transport and customs clearance: Whether a buyer chooses sea freight or land transport (the more popular option), the vehicle is shipped to Qatar and goes through Qatari customs, which includes paying the import duty (generally 5% of the car’s invoice value) and getting the car inspected for compliance.
- Registration in Qatar: Once customs clearance is complete, buyers can easily register the car locally with minimal hassle.
Many UAE dealerships that have used cars for sale now offer complete export service packages, handling every step on behalf of the buyer. As a result, Qatari residents can purchase and receive their vehicles within a few days to a few weeks, making the process faster and more convenient.
Total Costs Involved: From Purchase to Delivery in Qatar
The total costs involved in exporting a car from UAE to Qatar typically include the purchase price of the vehicle, UAE export fees (around AED 500 – 1,000), vehicle inspection and deregistration fees, custom duties in Qatar (5% of the car value), shipping or transportation fees (AED 1,000 – 3,000 depending on method), and Qatar vehicle registration and inspection costs.
Additional expenses may include insurance, clearance agent fees, and possible modifications to meet Qatar’s road standards. Overall, budget an additional 10-15% of the car’s value to cover all related export and import costs.
What Documents Are Needed to Export a Car to Qatar?
To export a car from UAE to Qatar, you will need the following documents:
- Registration card (Mulkiya)
- A valid UAE export certificate
- Customs clearance certificate
- Sales invoice proving ownership
- Vehicle inspection report
Additionally, you will need a copy of your passport, visa and Qatar residence permit. It is also necessary to deregister a car in the UAE before export and ensure it meets Qatar’s import regulations.
First Choice Cars – Trusted UAE Used Car Dealer for Qatari Buyers
Finding the right vehicle and ensuring a smooth transaction requires a reliable partner. This is where First Choice Cars stands out. With an impressive selection of premium SUVs, luxury sedans, sports cars, and economical vehicles, First Choice Cars offers used cars for sale and specializes in helping Qatari buyers secure the best deals. They offer full assistance for vehicle exports for land transport to GCC countries or export through a shipping line and provide support to customers by arranging competitive shipping rates and managing the necessary export documentation. First Choice Cars also assist with all required procedures at the UAE traffic department to ensure a smooth and hassle-free export process.
Popular Cars Qataris and Residents Buy from UAE in 2025
Here is a breakdown of the most popular vehicles among Qatari buyers this year, categorized for easy reference:
Top SUVs and 4x4s
For many Qataris, SUVs and 4x4s are the vehicle of choice, perfectly suited to the desert environment and lifestyle.
- Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series: The Land Cruiser continues to dominate Qatar’s roads with its legendary reliability, luxury upgrades, and serious off-road capabilities. The 300 series is lighter, faster, and even more durable than before.
- Nissan Patrol 2022+ (Y62 Facelift): Loved for its power, size, and luxury interior, the Patrol remains a top choice for both families and adventurers.
- Lexus LX 600: Built on the Land Cruiser platform but with Lexus-grade refinement, the LX 600 offers opulence and unstoppable performance.
- Range Rover Autobiography / Vogue: These iconic luxury SUVs blend British elegance with rugged capability, perfect for both city cruising and desert exploration.
- Mercedes G63 AMG (New G-Class): An all-time favorite among Qataris, the G63 combines brute strength, an unmistakable design, and high-end luxury.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L: Now offering third-row seating, the Grand Cherokee L is an ideal family SUV with impressive off-road pedigree.
- Toyota Prado (New Generation 2024): Smaller than the Land Cruiser but just as capable, the new generation Prado is lighter, more efficient, and packed with modern tech.
- Ford Expedition Platinum: A full-sized SUV that delivers comfort, power, and luxury in equal measure—ideal for big families or long road trips.
- GMC Yukon Denali (2024): The Denali trim of the Yukon offers a luxury-level cabin, powerful V8 engines, and immense road presence.
- Ford Bronco: With its retro styling and hardcore off-road abilities, the Ford Bronco is winning fans fast across Qatar.
Top Luxury Sedans
When it comes to luxury sedans, Qataris seek vehicles that balance performance, prestige, and comfort.
- Mercedes-Benz S580: An icon of sophistication, the S580 leads the luxury sedan segment with cutting-edge technology and unmatched ride comfort.
- BMW 740i (New Series G70): Dynamic driving, futuristic interiors, and high-end craftsmanship make the new BMW 7 Series a brilliant choice.
- Lexus LS 500h (Hybrid sedan): Blending efficiency and luxury, the LS 500h offers whisper-quiet operation with impressive fuel economy.
- Genesis G90: Genesis is gaining traction in Qatar by offering Rolls-Royce-level luxury at a fraction of the price.
- Audi A8 55 TFSI: Sleek, spacious, and full of tech, the A8 continues to be a strong contender among premium buyers.
Top Sports / Luxury Performance Cars
These cars designed for adrenaline seekers and style enthusiasts are some of the most popular options among Qatari buyers:
- Lamborghini Urus S / Performante: The Urus remains one of the hottest super-SUVs on the market — brutal acceleration meets everyday usability.
- Ferrari Roma / 296 GTB: Elegant yet powerful, these Ferraris deliver the classic Italian driving experience with modern refinement.
- Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT (2024): A sports car disguised as an SUV, the Cayenne Turbo GT offers thrilling speed and everyday practicality.
- Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-Door: Blistering performance combined with everyday functionality — the G3 4-Door is a dream machine for performance enthusiasts.
- McLaren Artura: A cutting-edge hybrid supercar offers the best of British engineering with groundbreaking technology.
Top Pickups and Adventure Vehicles
Buyers craving adventure will opt for one of these pickups that deliver expectational power combined with modern style and technology:
- Ford F-150 Raptor R: Packing some serious horsepower and off-road capability, the Raptor R is best built for the desert.
- Ram 1500 TRX: A supercharged V8 engine, aggressive styling, and unmatched comfort make the TRX the ultimate desert runner.
- Toyota Hilux GR Sport: The Hilux gets a sporty makeover, ideal for work and weekend play.
- GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate: Top-of-the-line luxury combined with the toughness you expect from a Sierra — a strong choice for adventurers.
Safe Delivery & Registration: Tips for a Smooth Car Import to Qatar
For a smooth and safe car transfer from UAE to Qatar, it is important to work with a reliable shipping company and ensure all documents are accurate and complete before export. Choose enclosed and insured transport if the vehicle is high-value, and confirm the car meets Qatar’s road and environmental standards.
- Double-check that the vehicle has no outstanding fines or loans in the UAE
- Keep multiple copies of all the documents
- Hire a local clearance agent in Qatar to handle customs smoothly
- Ensure the vehicle passes the technical inspection before registration
Should You Buy Your Next Car from the UAE?
Undeniably, one of the main reasons Qatari buyers prefer the UAE is the variety of vehicles available. Unlike smaller markets, the UAE used cars market boasts everything any buyer can imagine, from luxury SUVs and supercars to budget-friendly drives. Many UAE showrooms stock the latest international releases well before they appear elsewhere in the GCC, making the market very popular.
The fact that the process of exporting a car from the UAE to Qatar has been simplified over the years makes the market even more attractive. Surely, the UAE knows how to take advantage of what it offers, and they have again outdone itself by offering Qatari residents a smooth, fast, and efficient ability to purchase their dream car in the UAE.
