Are Dubai Plugs the Same as UK? Shipping UK Electrical Appliances to the UAE

If you’re moving to Dubai from the UK, whether for work, a long stay, or permanently,  you may be wondering what you’re going to do with your electrical appliances. It’s typically more cost-effective to bring your electrical appliances with you instead of replacing them in your new country, but is this the case for Dubai?

1st Move International have been helping UK movers ship their personal belongings, including electrical appliances, to Dubai for over 25 years. We’ll always be the first choice for faster, safer, and smarter shipping.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using and shipping UK electrical appliances to Dubai. We’ll look at plug compatibility, voltage differences, which appliances are safe to bring, and when it might be better to buy new locally.

Are Dubai Plugs the Same as UK?

Yes, the good news for UK movers is that the UK and Dubai both use Type G plugs, meaning the plug shape is the same. Both Dubai and the UK also use the same voltage and frequency, 230 volts at 50Hz, so most UK appliances are compatible with Dubai’s electrical supply and do not need an adapter or voltage converter. 

Voltage, Frequency, and Amps Compatibility 

Fortunately, the UK and Dubai share the exact same voltage, frequency, and amperage when it comes to electrical appliances. 

Feature	UK	Dubai (UAE)
Plug Type	Type G	Type G
Voltage	230V	230V
Frequency	50Hz	50Hz
Amperage	Up to 13A	Up to 13A

Most UK items are designed to operate within this voltage range so that they can be plugged into Dubai plugs without the need for any modification. However, it’s always important to check the label and ensure your items are marked 220–240V, 50Hz. If you have items that are marked 110–120V, which are common in US and Japanese items, you cannot use these without a step-down transformer or your items could be destroyed.

Both UK and Dubai sockets support up to 13 amps, but some older Dubai buildings may be wired to support only 10 amps. If your items draw more amps than the plug can handle, it could blow the fuse or overheat the wiring. Always check the wattage on the appliance to figure out the amps. If it reads 3000W or above, this is 13 amps, so it’s advised to be cautious.

Overall, the voltage, frequency, and amperage compatibility will save you money on expensive voltage converters, bulky adapters, and rewiring your appliances in Dubai.

UK Electrical Items with Low Wattage

These items are generally safe to use in Dubai plugs that support 13 amps:

Appliance	Wattage	Safe to Use in Dubai?
Mobile phone charger	5–25W	Yes, usually dual-voltage
Laptop charger	45–120W	Yes, also dual-voltage
TV (LED/LCD)	50–200W	Yes
Fridge/Freezer	100–400W (running)	Yes
Desktop PC	200–600W	Yes
Game console	70–200W	Yes
Toaster (2-slice)	800–1500W	Yes, but always check the label to confirm wattage
Microwave (compact)	700–1200W	Yes, large models may draw more power
Coffee machine (pod)	1000–1500W	Yes, but stay within single socket use
Hairdryer	1000–2200W	Yes, but with caution and use its own socket
Electric kettle	2000–3000W	Yes, but on the border of the 13-amp limit
Iron	1200–2800W	As above. Avoid sharing a socket with other high-power items
Vacuum cleaner	800–1600W	Yes, but use in short bursts to avoid overloading

Items To Be Cautious With: 

Items like kettles and irons are right on the cusp of 13 amps and should typically work fine in Dubai. It’s always advised not to overload plugs with other high-wattage appliances or use extension leads in case of tripping the circuit.

What About My Larger Appliances?

Large appliances are safe to ship and use in Dubai, but always check the wattage on the label and use with caution.

Fridges and Freezers: UK fridges and freezers typically use 100–400W power when running, so are well within the 13 amps range used in Dubai. These are safe to plug into Dubai sockets without an adapter or converter.

Washing Machines: Washing machines are typically safe to use too, running on 1800–2500W, so around 8-11 amps. Ensure the socket is modern and wired safely and correctly. 

Electric Ovens: Electric ovens in the UK are high power, typically running on 3000–4000W, which is 13–17 amps. They could be incompatible with standard Dubai outlets, so it’s important to ask a professional electrician.

Tumble Dryers: Tumble dryers use a lot of power and run on between 2500-3000W, so should only be used on a 13 amp outlet. You should find this out from your landlord or estate agent. 

In general, it’s always more cost-effective to ship your larger, more expensive items to Dubai, as most are compatible. You always have the option to get plugs rewired to match any older Dubai building standards if necessary.

Will My UK TV Work in Dubai?

Yes, UK TVs will work in Dubai as they share the same plug, voltage, and frequency. The channels you can access will depend on a few factors. Both the UK and Dubai also use DVB-T2, so most modern UK TVs will receive over-the-air signals. Freeview or Freesat might not work in Dubai, so you’ll need a set-top box or satellite receiver. TV apps like BBC iPlayer won’t work either in Dubai, as these are UK-based.

Do UK Appliance Warranties Apply in Dubai? 

If you’re shipping large and expensive UK appliances to use in Dubai, you’ll want to make sure they are protected. Most UK warranties typically don’t cover items once they leave the country, so make sure you get them covered on your contents insurance or look into an international warranty.

Shipping Electrical Appliances From the UK to Dubai

You can ship UK electrical appliances to Dubai from the UK if they are used household goods and are for personal use. Your items may be subject to 5% duty if they are high-value electronics like TVs, computers, and sound systems. Dubai customs officers may assess their value and charge VAT or duty.

Preparing Items for Customs

It’s vital you prepare your items for shipping and Dubai customs inspections. This entails cleaning and defrosting fridges and freezers so they are free from any food and liquid.

Thoroughly clean and dry dishwashers, washing machines, and tumble dryers to avoid any leaks during the move. UAE customs may delay or even reject any appliances that are not clean, dry, and free from food.

You should also ensure batteries, especially lithium batteries, are taken out of electrical items. 

Using an International Removals Company

You will have to declare your items too, so it’s essential you use a reputable and experienced international removal company that will understand the process. 

1st Move International have been helping UK mover safely and quickly ship their electronic items and household goods to Dubai for over 25 years. 

We work with you to ensure your customs paperwork is all in order, everything is declared properly, and you understand the UAE import rules.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship Items to Dubai from the UK?

The cost to ship furniture to Dubai, including electrical appliances, from the UK, is around £2,224 for a 20ft container of items. If you need to move a large amount of items, our 40ft container shipping service costs £2,857, while shared container moves are approximately £871. 

Removals to Dubai and the UAE

If you’re ready to move to Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, let 1st Move International do the hard work. We offer guaranteed weekly shipping to the UAE from all over the UK, so you get settled into your new home quicker than with other companies. Get your free personalised quote for your removals to Dubai today. Simply fill out our quick and easy form with details of your move or call our expert team for free on 0800 3890784.