Is it worth buying a Porsche in Dubai and importing it to Switzerland? The influencer phenomenon: true or false?

Lately, you may have noticed influencers on Instagram extolling the benefits of buying a luxury car in Dubai, particularly a Porsche, and importing it to Switzerland. They often point to attractive prices, advantageous purchase conditions and the chance to drive the car of your dreams for much less than in Europe. But is this practice really as profitable as they claim, or is it simply a fad?

1. Dubai, a paradise for luxury cars?

Dubai is world-famous for its passion for luxury cars. Taxes are low, the local population appreciates top-of-the-range vehicles, and the second-hand market is flourishing. It's easy to find brand new or slightly used Porsche models at prices that are often more attractive than in Switzerland. There are several reasons for these price differences:

• No high VAT rate Taxes on cars in Dubai are much lower than in most European countries.
• An abundance of top-of-the-range vehicles Dubai is a city where luxury cars are seen on a daily basis, which contributes to the large supply on the second-hand market.

These factors make Dubai an attractive place to buy a Porsche. But that's only part of the story.

2. Imports: the hidden costs

While influencers talk about the attractive prices of Porsche cars in Dubai, they often don't mention the complex and costly procedures involved in importing them into Switzerland. Here are the main steps and costs to consider:

• Transport Shipping a car from Dubai to Switzerland costs money. Depending on the type of transport (sea or air), the price can vary, but it can quickly rise to several thousand francs.
• Customs duties and VAT In Switzerland, imported vehicles are subject to customs duties and VAT. You will also have to pay customs duties depending on the engine capacity.
• Technical modifications : Cars bought abroad, particularly outside the European Union, sometimes have to be modified to meet Swiss standards, whether in terms of emissions, safety or technical compliance (lighting, braking system, etc.).
• Certification Once the car has been imported and modified, it will have to go through a homologation procedure in Switzerland. This stage is essential for obtaining a permit to drive on Swiss roads, and can be long and costly.

3. Depreciation and the Swiss used car market

In addition to the costs associated with importing, you need to consider the vehicle's resale value. A car imported from abroad, particularly from outside Europe, may suffer greater depreciation than a model bought directly in Switzerland. Indeed, Swiss buyers are often reluctant to buy an imported car for reasons of warranty, reliability or simply distrust of the vehicle's history.

4. True or false?

Influencers who highlight bargains on Porsches in Dubai aren't entirely lying: it's true that the prices advertised may seem attractive, and some people have probably managed to buy a luxury car for less. However, these publications often only tell part of the story. Import costs, administrative procedures and depreciation on the Swiss market are essential elements to consider before embarking on such an adventure.

5. So, is it interesting?

Buying a Porsche in Dubai and importing it into Switzerland can be worthwhile if you're a luxury car enthusiast, prepared to spend time and money on import formalities, and are aware of the additional costs involved. For others, it may not be worth the effort.

Before giving in to the call of Instagram, it is therefore advisable to calculate all the costs carefully, find out about the specifics of importing and compare with local offers. Because while a Porsche in Dubai may seem like a good deal on paper, the hidden costs and complex procedures can quickly turn the dream into a disillusionment.

Do your homework, make your calculations and don't blindly trust the promises of influencers!