How to Transfer Car Ownership in the UAE: Process, Fees & More

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the transfer of car ownership is an essential legal procedure that accompanies the buying and selling of vehicles. This guide is meticulously designed to navigate you through the complexities of this process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met efficiently. The UAE's streamlined protocols facilitate a smooth transfer, provided that all necessary documents are properly prepared and submitted.

Car ownership transfer is not only a regulatory compliance but also a safeguard against potential legal and financial liabilities. Whether you're purchasing a new vehicle, selling your current one, or managing estate affairs, understanding the intricacies of this process is crucial. This article will provide a detailed exploration of the steps, documentation, and fees involved in transferring vehicle ownership within the UAE. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to ensure a seamless transition of ownership, reflecting both compliance and peace of mind.

Key Considerations Before Transferring Ownership

Clearing Obligations

Before initiating the transfer process, it is crucial to clear any outstanding obligations associated with the vehicle. This includes all pending traffic fines and Salik toll dues. These liabilities are attached to the vehicle’s registration and must be settled to proceed with the transfer. Unresolved dues can lead to complications or delays, potentially incurring additional penalties. It is advisable to check the status of any dues through official channels such as the RTA app/website, Dubai Police app, or customer service centers to ensure all financial responsibilities are cleared.

Required Presence

UAE law mandates that both the current owner (seller) and the new owner (buyer) be physically present at the transfer location. This requirement is enforced to prevent fraudulent transactions and to ensure that both parties formally agree to the terms of the transfer, acknowledging the vehicle’s condition and any encumbrances. The transfer can be conducted at authorized locations, including Dubai Traffic Police HQ or any RTA licensing center, depending on the emirate. For those unable to attend in person due to extenuating circumstances, provisions may be made to appoint a legal representative through a power of attorney; however, this option should be confirmed in advance with the relevant authority.

Who Can Transfer the Car Ownership?

The buyer must be a resident of the UAE to engage in the vehicle ownership transfer process in Dubai.
Before the transfer can proceed, the current owner must settle any outstanding fines on the vehicle to clear its record.
As part of the ownership transfer, it's essential for the current owner to either pay off the vehicle's loans or formally transfer them to the new owner, ensuring financial liabilities are clearly accounted for.
The seller must transfer the vehicle's insurance policy to the new owner. If the policy has expired, the buyer needs to purchase a new insurance plan to comply with local laws and ensure the vehicle is covered.
Both parties should prepare and verify all necessary documents, including the vehicle registration, proof of residency, and valid IDs, to facilitate a smooth transfer.
The vehicle may need to undergo a technical inspection before the transfer, especially if it is an older model. Following a successful inspection, the vehicle must be registered under the new owner's name.
Visit the nearest Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) center to complete the formalities. The RTA provides guidance and services to ensure compliance with all local regulations during the transfer.

Documentation Required

For the Seller

The seller must prepare the following documents:

Emirates ID: To verify identity.
Mulkiya (vehicle registration card): To prove the vehicle’s current registration.
Original passport copy: For additional identity verification.
Residence visa: Required for non-GCC nationals.
Final loan payment confirmation: If the vehicle was financed.
NOC from the bank: Necessary if there is an outstanding loan.
Vehicle’s technical inspection certificate: To confirm the vehicle is fit for transfer.

For the Buyer

The buyer needs to arrange the following documents:

Emirates ID: Mandatory for all transactions.
Driver's license: To prove driving eligibility.
Passport: For identity verification.
Valid residence visa: For non-GCC expats.
Insurance policy: Must be updated to reflect the new ownership.

Requirement	Applicant Type	Details
Original Emirates ID	Seller	Required; if expired, provide original passport
Original Emirates ID and valid passport copy	Buyer (GCC citizen/local)	Mandatory for updating records
Valid diplomatic card and official letter	Buyer (Diplomat)	Letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs required
No Objection Certificate (NOC)	Buyer (Sponsored by Oilfields Supply Centre)	Needed for vehicle registration
Electronic insurance document	All	Must be presented by buyer
Address mortgage electronically	All	Necessary if the vehicle is under a mortgage
Vehicle technical inspection certificate	All	Mandatory for transfer
Plate numbers delivery	All	Required if retaining old plate numbers
Police report for lost plates	All	Necessary if any vehicle plates are lost
Official letter in Arabic, trade license, and certified authorization letter	Company	Required documents for companies
No Objection Certificate (NOC)	Company (Specific zones)	Required for companies in free zones like JAFZA
Electronic police report for lost plates	Company	Required in cases of lost vehicle plates

Where can you go to transfer vehicle ownership in Dubai?

RTA Customer Happiness Centres	Vehicle Registration and Inspection Centres
Deira	Al Qusais Registration
Al Barsha	Al Barsha Registration
Umm Ramool	Warsan Registration
Al Manara	Jebel Ali Registration
Al Twar	Hatta Registration
	Discovery Gardens Registration
	Al-Awir Registration
	Arab City Registration
	Shamil Al-Aded
	Shamil Muhaisnah
	Shamil Nad Al Hammar
	Shamil Al Qusais
	Al Momayaz Vehicle Inspection – Al Mizhar Markets
	Al Mumayaz Vehicle Testing – Al Barsha Mall
	Wasel Vehicle Testing – Al Jaddaf
	Wasel Vehicle Testing – Arab Center
	Wasel Vehicle Testing – Nad Al Hammar
	AG Cars For Vehicle Inspection – Deira
	AG Cars for Vehicle Testing – Mamzar
	Integrated Center – Al Awir
	Integrated Center – Al Quoz
	Tamam Vehicles Inspection
	Elias Center

Getting an inspection report

Before taking your vehicle on the road, it's crucial to have it thoroughly inspected. This can be achieved by obtaining a pass report from Tasjeel, a government-affiliated agency. Tasjeel offers a comprehensive 50-point inspection for AED 350, ensuring that the vehicle is both mechanically and cosmetically in good condition. This step is essential for confirming the overall readiness of your vehicle for operation.

What are the fees involved to make a transfer?

A common query about transferring car ownership in the UAE concerns the associated costs. It's important to understand that the fees for transferring vehicle ownership vary depending on the type of vehicle involved. Below, we outline the different fees for vehicle ownership transfer based on vehicle type.

Here's a table detailing the fees for transferring vehicle ownership in the UAE, categorized by vehicle type and usage:

Vehicle Type	Usage	Cost (AED)
Bus (passenger capacity > 26)	Private	600
Bus (passenger capacity 14-26)	Private	300
Bus (passenger capacity 14-26)	Public	400
Vehicle (weight > 3 tons and ≤ 12 tons)	Private	400
Vehicle (weight > 3 tons and ≤ 12 tons)	Public	650
Heavy mechanical device	Private	800
Heavy mechanical device	Public	1,000
Light mechanical device	Private	500
Light mechanical device	Public	700
Light vehicle	Private	350
Light vehicle	Public	350
Motorcycle	Private	200
Motorcycle	Public	400
Trailer and semi-trailer	Private	120
Trailer and semi-trailer	Public	220
Vehicle (weight > 12 tons)	Private	800
Vehicle (weight > 12 tons)	Public	1,000

How to transfer ownership?

In Dubai, transferring car ownership has been made straightforward and accessible, with both online and offline options available. Here's a guide to navigating the online process for a hassle-free transfer of vehicle ownership:

Online Process

Begin by visiting the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website.
Access the online services section and locate the page dedicated to vehicle ownership transfers.
If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account. Existing users can simply log in.
Complete the online form for vehicle ownership transfer. Make sure to provide all the necessary details accurately.
Upload all required documents. This generally includes the vehicle registration card, Emirates ID of both the seller and buyer, a copy of the buyer's passport, and their driving license.
Proceed to pay the transfer fees through the online payment options available on the site.
Once you've submitted the application, the RTA will take over the processing of your request.
Keep an eye on your RTA account or check your email regularly for any updates or notifications regarding the progress of your transfer.
After approval, you'll receive the new vehicle registration card electronically.
Finally, ensure that the vehicle's insurance policy is updated to reflect the new ownership by contacting your insurance provider.

Offline process

Keep in mind that the necessary documents and fees for transferring car ownership can differ based on the type of vehicle, its age, and various other factors. For the most current and precise details, it’s advisable to check the RTA website or reach out to them directly. Below is a simplified outline of the offline process for transferring car ownership in Dubai for your reference:

Head to your closest RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) customer service center in Dubai.
Pick up a car transfer application form at the center, and fill it out with accurate information.
Hand in the completed form along with the necessary documents, which should include the original vehicle registration card, the seller’s Emirates ID, and a copy of their passport.
As the buyer, you will need to provide your original Emirates ID, a copy of your passport, and your driving license.
Pay the required transfer fees and wait for the RTA representative to complete the processing of your transfer. Once finalized, a new vehicle registration card will be issued in your name.

Car number plates

Typically, the buyer keeps the number plates when purchasing a vehicle, but sellers also have the option to retain their plates. Many people choose to keep their plates, either because they've grown attached to them over time or because the plates have a unique or distinguished number.

However, there are specific regulations regarding the retention of number plates. If a seller decides to keep their plates, they must obtain an owner’s certificate from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Subsequently, new plates will be issued for the vehicle.

The cost of vehicle plate fees varies based on the type of plate selected:

Fee for a short plate: AED 35
Fee for a long plate: AED 50
Fee for luxury plates: AED 500
Fee for Dubai branded plates: AED 200
Fee for Expo branded plates: AED 200
Fee for an expiry sticker: AED 10
Fee for Knowledge and Innovation: AED 20

It's important to note that these fees are additional to the standard vehicle ownership transfer fee.

The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) significantly enhances the efficiency of vehicle ownership transfers in Dubai. Through its well-organized processes, the RTA ensures a smooth experience for residents. With multiple customer service centers and robust online platforms, individuals can easily handle paperwork and submit the required documents. The RTA's clear guidelines, professional staff, and consistent communication all contribute to a seamless and trouble-free transfer process. Our guide on how to transfer car ownership in Dubai aims to improve customer satisfaction and assist you in fulfilling your responsibilities as a citizen.