Car shipping

In United Arab Emirates
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026
I have shipped my car to Dubai from New York and [company removed] registered in [company removed] free zone Sharjah and it is invalid company and holding my car illegally and trying to sell my without my permission car when I am the owner of the car. And company is invalid.

Lawyer Answers

Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

Jan 20, 2026
Best Answer
Thank you for your message. If a shipping or logistics company in the UAE is holding your vehicle without legal authority and attempting to sell it without your consent, this is a serious matter. Even if the company is registered in a free zone or is no longer valid, it does not have the right to dispose of your property. As the registered owner, you may have both civil and criminal remedies available, particularly if there is evidence of unlawful possession, misrepresentation, or attempted sale without authorization.

The immediate steps usually include gathering all ownership and shipping documents (vehicle title, bill of lading, shipping contract, payment records, and correspondence), and filing a formal complaint with the police in the emirate where the vehicle is located. Depending on the facts, complaints may also be made to the relevant free zone authority and the courts to prevent sale and seek recovery of the vehicle. Acting quickly is important to protect your rights and prevent transfer of the car to a third party. I recommend obtaining local legal assistance to secure the vehicle and pursue enforcement as efficiently as possible.

Sincerely,
Ascendance International Consulting
Rashid Deemas Alsuwaidi Advocate and Legal Consultants

Rashid Deemas Alsuwaidi Advocate and Legal Consultants

Jan 20, 2026
Yes, its illegal to sell someone's property withhout his/her consent
HHS Lawyers And Legal Consultants

HHS Lawyers And Legal Consultants

Feb 23, 2026

If a company is holding your car without authority and attempting to sell it, this is a serious legal matter in the UAE. Only a legally authorized party with proper documentation or a court order can retain or dispose of your vehicle.


Key concerns in your situation




  • An invalid or unlicensed company may have no legal right to hold the vehicle.




  • Selling the car without the owner’s consent may constitute criminal breach of trust or fraud.




  • Your ownership rights remain protected if you hold the title and shipping documents.




Immediate steps to take




  • Gather all proof of ownership (title, bill of lading, shipping contract, payment receipts).




  • Verify the company’s license status with the relevant free zone authority.




  • Send a legal notice demanding immediate release of the vehicle.




  • File a police complaint if there is a threat of unlawful sale.




  • Consider filing a court case for recovery and damages if the vehicle is not released.




Important: Acting quickly can prevent unauthorized transfer or disposal of the vehicle.


HHS Lawyers can assist in verifying the company’s status, issuing legal notices, and taking urgent legal action to recover your vehicle. You can also claim a free 15-minute consultation with our expert by sending your enquiry on WhatsApp.

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