Proper art transport requires specialized knowledge to prevent irreversible damage. Approximately 60% of art insurance claims stem from transit damage, often from inadequate transportation methods. This guide covers essential best practices: museum-grade packing materials and techniques, climate control requirements during transport, selecting qualified professional shippers, insurance and documentation protocols, and critical differences between standard freight and fine art logistics that protect valuable collections.

Transporting valuable art requires specialized expertise that standard courier services cannot provide. Professional fine art shipping companies differ fundamentally from general freight carriers in their handling methods, climate control capabilities, and staff training. This guide explores what sets specialized art logistics firms apart, how to evaluate shipping partners, and why professional transport is essential for protecting valuable, fragile, or unique pieces during transit.

Installation art presents unique preservation challenges due to its large-scale, mixed-media nature. Unlike traditional paintings or sculptures, installations often combine wood, metal, electronics, video projections, textiles, and organic materials, each with distinct aging processes and vulnerabilities. This guide explores specialized maintenance approaches for time-based and interactive works, material-specific care protocols, and why installation art requires fundamentally different conservation strategies than traditional artworks.

Proper art storage protects both financial investment and cultural legacy. For UAE collectors, Dubai's extreme climate creates unique challenges where brief lapses cause irreversible damage. This guide covers essential fundamentals: thorough pre-storage documentation, proper handling techniques, archival protection materials, stable climate maintenance, strategic positioning by artwork type, and pest management for warm climates. Learn when professional storage becomes necessary and discover practical protection strategies for paintings, works on paper, and sculptures in Middle Eastern conditions.

The UAE's extreme climate presents unique challenges for art storage. Summer temperatures exceeding 45°C, humidity spikes above 90%, and intense dust storms demand specialized conservation approaches. This expert guide reveals how to protect valuable artwork through proper climate control, from HVAC system specifications to pest management protocols. Learn why standard museum guidelines must be adapted for Middle Eastern conditions, discover practical solutions for different artwork types, and understand when professional storage becomes essential. Whether managing institutional collections or private holdings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these climate control strategies are fundamental to preserving artistic investments in one of the world's most challenging environments.

When transporting valuable artwork, the quality of the crate makes all the difference. This guide explores museum-grade materials, techniques, and standards used by professional art handlers worldwide. Learn how archival plywood, closed-cell foams, and barrier films create protective microclimates for your collection. In the UAE's extreme climate, where temperatures reach 50°C, proper crating is critical. Discover the four types of art crates and specialized techniques for paintings, sculptures, and works on paper.

Cross-border art shipping in the GCC requires navigating distinct customs regulations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. Each country maintains unique tax structures, documentation requirements, and cultural property regulations. With Saudi Arabia's recent ATA Carnet adoption and evolving digital customs procedures, understanding current regulations is essential. From temporary import procedures and documentation accuracy to strategic routing and cost management, partnering with experienced regional specialists ensures efficient movement of artworks across this rapidly growing art market.

Art Dubai 2026 (April 17-19 at Madinat Jumeirah) requires careful logistics planning for participating galleries. Success depends on understanding shipping deadlines, customs procedures, ATA Carnets, and venue requirements. From freight coordination and installation to post-fair operations, partnering with experienced art logistics providers ensures your artworks receive expert care while maximizing opportunities in the Middle East's premier art fair.

Professional guide to preparing artwork for international shipping. Documentation, packaging, and customs tips included.