High-Rise Moving in Dubai: Tips for Tower Relocations

The Sky-High Challenge

Dubai is the city of skyscrapers. Living in the clouds is prestigious, but moving your sofa to the 45th floor is a logistical puzzle that requires precision planning.

1. The Elevator Rule: Book or Pay

This is the single most critical factor.

• Service Elevator: You cannot use the passenger lift for furniture. You must book the service elevator 1-2 weeks in advance.
• Time Slots: Most towers (like in Marina or JLT) give you a strict 3-hour window. If you miss it, you might have to come back the next day (and pay for a second trip).

2. Parking Permits & Height Restrictions

Where will the truck park?

• Loading Bay Height: Many loading docks have a height limit (e.g., 2.8 meters). If your mover brings a big truck, it won't fit. Tell your mover the clearance height beforehand!
• Street Parking: If there's no bay, RTA permits might be needed to block a lane for unloading.

3. The "Long Carry" Charge

If the truck can't get close to the elevator (e.g., parking is 100 meters away), movers charge extra for the "long carry." Negotiate this upfront by sending photos of the access expoint to your mover.

4. Balcony Hoisting

Sometimes, the sofa just won't fit in the elevator.

• Rope Hoisting: Professional movers can hoist items over the balcony, but this is usually only allowed up to the 2nd or 3rd floor.
• External Lift: For higher floors, external furniture lifts are rare and expensive in Dubai due to wind safety protocols. Measure your doorways twice!

Conclusion

High-rise moving is about logistics. Secure the elevator, check the parking height, and measure your furniture. The view from the top is worth the effort!