Common moving mistakes in the UAE (and what expats always forget)

Moving in the UAE is never just about transporting your boxes from A to B. Between tenancy contracts, utilities, and navigating apartment towers with strict move-in rules, there are plenty of details that can trip you up. Even the most organised person can run into frustrating setbacks on moving day.

This guide outlines the most common mistakes expats make when relocating within Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or beyond, and how you can avoid them.

• Mistake 1: Underestimating packing time
• Mistake 2: Not measuring furniture or building access
• Mistake 3: Delaying utility connections
• Mistake 4: Forgetting to update your address
• Mistake 5: Doing everything yourself
• Mistake 6: Overlooking vehicle and parking access
• What expats often forget when moving
• Why it’s worth using movers and packers in the UAE
• Avoiding common moving mistakes

Mistake 1: Underestimating packing time

Packing up a flat in Dubai Marina or a villa in Arabian Ranches takes longer than you think. Sorting, wrapping, taping, and labelling cannot all be tackled in a weekend.

Packing tips

• Start at least 4–6 weeks ahead.
• Begin with rarely used spaces like balconies, spare rooms, or storage units.
• Label each box with its contents and destination room.
• Pack an “essentials” bag with toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes, and snacks.
• If you don’t have the time, many movers and packers in the UAE also offer packing services. They bring boxes, bubble wrap, and can handle everything from wardrobes to fragile kitchenware.

For step-by-step advice, see our guide on what to pack first before your home move.

Mistake 2: Not measuring furniture or building access

High-rise apartments often have narrow lifts, staircases, and strict moving schedules. Assuming your sofa or king-size bed will glide in easily is a mistake many regret.

Measuring tips

Measure your largest furniture and the access points in your new building, including lifts, corridors, and doors. If an item won’t fit, sell it, or check if your movers and packers can dismantle and reassemble it.

Mistake 3: Delaying utility connections

Arriving in your new home without electricity, water, or internet is a nightmare. DEWA, ADDC, SEWA, Etisalat, and Du all require advance notice, and sometimes deposits or tenancy contract copies.

Tips to ensure connection

Notify providers at least a week in advance. Arrange the disconnection at your old home and the connection at your new one. On move-out day, record your final meter readings and settle bills to avoid penalties.

Mistake 4: Forgetting to update your address

Banks, employers, schools, delivery apps, insurance, and even your Emirates ID all need your updated address. Skipping this step means missed bills, lost parcels, or delays in official paperwork.

Tip to keep track of address updates

Create a checklist of everywhere your address appears, including your bank, insurance, mobile provider, HR department, school, car registration, and delivery apps. Since the UAE has no mail redirection service, you must update records directly.

To stay on top of admin, check out our essential tasks to never forget before you move.

Mistake 5: Doing everything yourself

Dragging boxes down stairwells or attempting to move bulky furniture alone isn’t just exhausting, it’s risky. Many buildings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi require you to book elevators and only allow registered movers.

Tips on hiring professional movers and packers in the UAE

They don’t just transport boxes; they also offer full or partial packing services, so your entire home can be packed in a day instead of weeks. This saves time, stress, and potential fines while ensuring fragile items are handled properly.

Read our comprehensive guide to choosing movers and packers in Dubai before booking a team.

Mistake 6: Overlooking vehicle and parking access

On moving day, nothing slows things down like a truck that can’t park close to the entrance. Some communities require permits, and some towers have strict timings for loading zones.

Parking tips

Visit your new home in advance. Check parking access, book service lifts, and confirm any NOCs (No Objection Certificates) required by the building management. Let your movers know so they can plan ahead.

What you may forget to do before moving

Small but important details often fall through the cracks:

• Emptying and defrosting the fridge and freezer.
• Draining the washing machine and dishwasher.
• Collecting dry cleaning or items from storage lockers.
• Backing up computers before unplugging them.
• Handing over remotes and spare keys to landlords or agents.
• Clearing balconies, storage closets or service rooms.

How to reduce oversight when moving

Do a final walk-through of every room, balcony, and storage area before handing over the keys. Hiring movers who provide packing services can also reduce the chance of these oversights, since they follow detailed checklists as part of the process.

Once you’re in, follow our unpacking tips after a big move to settle in faster.

Why it’s worth using movers and packers in the UAE

Relocations here often involve high-rise apartments, gated communities, and strict building rules. Professional movers and packers can handle permits, NOCs, and know the quickest routes between emirates.

Benefits include:

• Professional packing services to protect fragile and bulky items.
• Speed and efficiency with heavy furniture.
• Proper tools like trolleys, padding, and dismantling kits.
• Reduced risk of damage or injury.
• Optional unpacking and storage solutions.
• Insurance options for extra peace of mind.

See our guide on things to do before movers and packers arrive so you’re fully prepared.

Don’t make the same moving mistakes

Avoiding the most common moving mistakes in the UAE comes down to planning ahead, starting early, and working with movers and packers who also provide packing services. Whether you’re moving across Dubai or relocating from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah, a little preparation makes your move smoother and less stressful.

For trusted movers and packers in the UAE, Wise Move makes it simple to compare quotes, read reviews, and book reliable companies—all in one place.