Licensed vs Unlicensed Movers in Dubai: How to Verify Properly

The quote was half the price of other movers. It seemed too good to be true—and it was. After loading everything onto the truck, they demanded cash upfront or threatened to drive away with all your belongings. With no license, no insurance, and no accountability, you had zero recourse. This nightmare scenario plays out weekly in Dubai. Here's how to make sure you never become another victim.

What's Changed in Mover Licensing for 2026

Dubai has strengthened regulations and enforcement:

• Stricter DED enforcement: Dubai Economy now actively monitors social media and classifieds for unlicensed operators
• Building management crackdowns: More buildings now require QR-verified license documentation before allowing moves
• Insurance minimums raised: Licensed movers must now carry minimum AED 100,000 goods-in-transit coverage
• Digital license verification: New DED app allows instant scanning of license validity
• Increased penalties: Fines for operating without a license have doubled, reducing unlicensed operators

Why Licensing Matters

In Dubai's moving industry, the difference between licensed and unlicensed operators can mean the difference between a smooth move and a nightmare. Licensed professional movers offer protections that unlicensed operators simply can't provide.

For comprehensive vetting advice, see our guide on how to choose movers in Dubai.

What Makes a Mover "Licensed"?

Required Credentials

• UAE Trade License: Issued by Dubai DED (Department of Economic Development)
• Correct Activity Code: License must include "moving" or "relocation" services
• Current Status: License must be valid (not expired)
• Insurance: Goods in transit coverage at minimum

What the License Provides

• Legal accountability
• Recourse through Dubai courts if problems arise
• Required insurance coverage
• Regulated business practices
• Legitimate employment of workers

How to Verify a License

Step 1: Ask for License Number

Request: "Can you provide your trade license number?"

• Good answer: Specific number provided immediately
• Red flag: Vague response, reluctance, "we're processing renewal"

Step 2: Verify Online

Check the license through official channels:

• Dubai Economy website: Business search function
• Invest Dubai portal: Company verification
• DED app: License lookup

Step 3: Check License Details

Verify:

• Company name matches
• License is current (not expired)
• Activities include moving/relocation/transport
• Address seems legitimate

Step 4: Ask for Insurance Certificate

Licensed movers should have:

• Goods in transit insurance
• Third-party liability
• Worker compensation

Risks of Using Unlicensed Movers

No Legal Recourse

• No registered business to sue
• No local address to serve papers
• Often operate under fake names
• Disappear after disputes

No Insurance Coverage

• If items are damaged, you have no claim
• If items are lost, no compensation
• If workers are injured in your home, potential liability

Quality Concerns

• Untrained workers
• Poor equipment
• No professional packing materials
• Inadequate vehicles

Scam Potential

• Holding items hostage for more money
• Bait-and-switch pricing
• Theft (harder to report)
• Abandoning job mid-move

Learn more about avoiding moving scams.

How Unlicensed Operators Appear

Common Sources

• Facebook groups and Marketplace
• WhatsApp-only contacts
• Dubizzle individual ads (not businesses)
• Building notice boards
• Word of mouth "guys with a truck"

Warning Signs

• Significantly below-market pricing
• Cash only, no invoice
• No website or professional email
• Reluctance to provide license
• No written quote or contract
• Personal vehicle (not company truck)
• No uniforms or identification

Price Comparison: Licensed vs Unlicensed

Service	Licensed	Unlicensed
2BR Move	AED 1,800-2,800	AED 800-1,200
Insurance	Included	None
Professional equipment	Yes	Usually no
Trained workers	Yes	Varies
Written contract	Yes	Rarely
Recourse if problems	Legal options	None

The "savings" disappear if anything goes wrong.

What Licensed Companies Provide

Documentation

• Written quote with breakdown
• Service contract
• Insurance certificate
• Inventory list
• Proper invoice

Professional Service

• Uniformed, ID'd workers
• Company-branded vehicles
• Proper equipment (dollies, straps, blankets)
• Professional packing materials

Accountability

• Physical office address
• Registered business
• Customer service department
• Claims process

See our credentials page for what to expect.

When Unlicensed Might Seem Tempting

Very Small Moves

Single item or few boxes—risk is lower. But still:

• What if they damage your item?
• What if they don't show up?
• Licensed "man with van" services exist at reasonable rates

Extremely Tight Budget

Understandable, but consider:

• DIY may be safer (rent truck yourself)
• Some licensed movers offer budget tiers
• One damaged item = lost "savings"

Questions to Unmask Unlicensed Operators

• "What's your trade license number?"
• "Can I see your insurance certificate?"
• "What's your company's physical address?"
• "Can you email me from a company domain?"
• "What happens if something is damaged?"
• "Can I pay by card/bank transfer?"

The Building Management Test

Many Dubai buildings require:

• Moving company trade license copy
• Insurance certificate
• Truck registration

Unlicensed operators often can't provide these, causing move-day problems.

See our building approval guide.

Real Consequences: What Can Go Wrong

Scenario 1: Held Hostage

Unlicensed mover loads everything, then demands double the price. Your options are limited.

Scenario 2: Damage Without Recourse

Expensive furniture damaged. Mover says "sorry" and disappears. No insurance claim possible.

Scenario 3: No-Show

Moving day arrives, mover doesn't. WhatsApp blocked. No company to contact.

Scenario 4: Building Denied

Arrive at new building, management requires mover documentation. Unlicensed operator can't provide. Move delayed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all movers on Dubizzle licensed?

No. Dubizzle has both businesses and individuals. Verify each company separately.

Can I check a license for free?

Yes, DED verification is free through official portals.

What if a friend recommends an unlicensed mover?

Their good experience doesn't guarantee yours. Problems may only appear when something goes wrong.

Are free zone companies (DMCC, JAFZA) legitimate?

Yes, free zone licenses are valid for their designated activities. Verify through the relevant free zone authority.

How do I report an unlicensed operator?

Report to Dubai Economy (DED) or Dubai Police if criminal activity (theft, extortion) occurs.

The Bottom Line

The savings from unlicensed movers evaporate with one problem. Licensed operators cost more for good reason—they provide protection, accountability, and professionalism that matter when things go wrong.

Ready to book verified professionals? Movers Dubai is fully licensed, insured, and happy to share our credentials upfront.

Get a free quote or call +971 55 301 3309 to speak with our team. We'll provide our trade license number, insurance certificate, and answer any verification questions before you commit.