Moving Checklist for Abu Dhabi Residents (2026 Edition)

Six weeks before your move

Start by finalising your new lease and notifying your current landlord. Most Abu Dhabi landlords expect 60–90 days notice. Request your NOC (No Objection Certificate) early — it's needed by most building management offices and movers' permit applications. Begin decluttering room by room: donate, sell or store anything you don't need.

Four weeks out

Book your mover. At Perfect Mover Packers we recommend confirming your slot four weeks ahead for villas and 1–2 weeks ahead for apartments. Get a written, fixed-price quote and clarify exactly what is included (packing materials, dismantling, insurance).

Notify schools, employers, banks, telecom providers and DEWA/ADDC of your move date. Arrange utility transfers — both disconnection and reconnection — in advance.

Two weeks before

Confirm building permits and lift bookings at both your old and new address. Take photos of valuable items in their current condition. Order specialty packing materials for art, wine collections or musical instruments.

One week before

Pack a "first night box" with essentials: bed linen, toiletries, phone chargers, basic kitchenware, important documents. Defrost your freezer 48 hours before moving day. Disassemble anything you can and tape screws to the relevant piece.

Moving day

Be at the property when the crew arrives. Walk them through any fragile items and your room-by-room plan. Keep documents, jewellery and medication with you personally. Check your inventory list before signing off.

After the move

Update your address on your Emirates ID, driving licence and bank accounts within 30 days. Test all utilities, inspect the new property for any damage and submit your handover photos to your old landlord to release your security deposit.

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