With ongoing disruption to shipping from the Gulf, many individuals and families are asking the same question: Can I still move my belongings overseas?

The short answer is YES – we’re sending out international shipments every day. But the routing, transit times and price points have all changed.

Here’s what you need to know.

Q: Is international shipping from the UAE still operating?

Yes — international shipments are still moving.

While standard sailings from Gulf ports have all been suspended, Crown Relocations have alternative solutions in place to keep household goods moving safely out of the region.

At present, shipments are being routed through:

• the ‘Green Corridor’ to Sohar port in Oman
• the ‘Saudi Landbridge’ to Jeddah port in Saudi Arabia

These overland routes allow shipments to safely bypass the Strait of Hormuz and continue onward to global destinations. Transit times are currently 2 to 3 weeks longer than usual, but relocations are very much still happening.

Q: What are my options if I need to move soon?

We will talk you through your different options depending on your priorities, your budget and your desired timeline. You can:

• Ship your full household, potentially with a vehicle, using a 40ft container
• Share a container to reduce costs
• Send essentials by air freight or courier for faster delivery
• Pack and store your belongings until you’re ready to move

This mix-and-match approach allows you to prioritise what you need now, while keeping the rest flexible.

Q: What’s the most cost-effective way to ship right now?

In the current market, bigger or shared is better.

• 40ft containers offer the best value for full household moves
• Shared containers are a strong alternative if you don’t need a full container
• 20ft containers are currently not cost-effective, as pricing is similar to 40ft options

This is why many customers are choosing either full 40ft containers or shared services to maximise value.

Q: Why are shipping costs so much higher right now?

Shipping costs have increased significantly due to:

• Route changes with overland transit
• Increased fuel costs
• War risk surcharges and insurance premiums
• Limited vessel availability and capacity constraints

While prices will stabilise over time, they won’t return to previous levels in the short term.

For now, the focus is on finding the most efficient and cost-effective option based on your needs.

Q: What if don’t have a confirmed destination or might return in a few months?

That’s completely understandable — and there are options to “buy time.”

Some customers are choosing to:

• Pack and store their belongings locally in our secure facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
• Send a small number of essential items by air, sea or courier now, and the rest later

This approach gives you flexibility without committing to immediate full shipment.

Q: Is it safe to ship right now?

Yes — shipments are continuing under careful protocols.

Crown Relocations is working closely with shipping lines, ports, and regional partners to ensure:

• Secure handling and routing
• Up-to-date contingency planning
• Ongoing monitoring of regional developments

Choosing a provider with strong regional infrastructure and established networks is particularly important at times like this.

Q: Why does experience in the region matter right now?

This is where experience makes a real difference.

Crown Relocations has been operating in the Middle East since 1978, supporting individuals, families, and corporate clients through multiple periods of regional disruption.

That long-standing presence means:

• Established relationships with shipping lines and partners
• Deep understanding of regional logistics challenges
• Proven contingency planning and alternative routing strategies
• Teams on the ground who can adapt quickly as conditions change

In uncertain times, that experience translates into practical solutions and peace of mind.

Q: What should I do next if I’m planning a move?

If you’re planning a move from the UAE or wider Middle East, the best first step is to get tailored advice based on your situation.

Every move right now is slightly different — depending on destination, timing, and volume.

A relocation expert can help you:

• Understand the best routing options
• Compare shipping vs storage scenarios
• Identify the most cost-effective approach
• Plan around current timelines and constraints

We’re Here to Help

Crown Relocations remains fully operational across the region, supporting customers with flexible, practical relocation solutions.

Whether you need to move now, later, or in stages, our team is here to guide you through your options.

Get in touch for tailored advice on your move +971 800 27696