When buying or selling a used car in the UAE, the registration must be officially transferred from the seller's name to the buyer's. The process is done at Tasjeel (Dubai), Tamam (Sharjah), Shamil (Ajman), or the registration centers in Abu Dhabi.
Required documents
- Both buyer and seller must be present (or have a notarized POA).
- Original Mulkiya (registration card).
- Both parties' Emirates IDs + driving licenses.
- New insurance in the buyer's name (1 year, comprehensive or third-party).
- Vehicle present at the center for plate handover.
- If transferring with the same plate: signed plate transfer form.
Fees & process
| Item | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Ownership transfer | 350 |
| New insurance (annual) | ~3–4% of car value |
| Plate transfer (keeping seller's plate) | 200 |
| New plate | 50 |
| Knowledge & Innovation fees | 20 |
- Seller clears all traffic fines + Salik dues = AED 0.
- Buyer purchases new insurance in their name.
- Both parties visit Tasjeel/Tamam/Shamil with all documents.
- Vehicle is briefly inspected (older than 3 years).
- New Mulkiya issued in buyer's name.
- Process takes ~30–45 minutes.
Tips for both buyer and seller
- Buyer: never pay full price before transfer is complete and the new Mulkiya is in your name.
- Seller: don't hand over keys or sign POA until payment is in your account (cash, manager's cheque, or bank transfer confirmed).
- Avoid third-party agents who promise to "do everything" — many scams here.
- Check the vehicle's accident history via Federal Traffic database (RTA Dubai app → Vehicle History) before buying.
- Sales contract (informal) is good practice but not legally required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is car ownership transfer in Dubai?
AED 350 for ownership transfer, plus mandatory new insurance (~3–4% of car value) and AED 50 for new plate.
Can I transfer ownership without the seller present?
Only if the seller signs a notarized Power of Attorney (POA) authorising you or a third party.
Do I need new insurance to transfer ownership?
Yes — the buyer must have valid insurance in their own name before transfer can be completed.
Can I keep the old plate number?
Buyer cannot keep the seller's plate. Seller can keep their plate by paying AED 200 plate retention fee, then attach it to a new car within 2 years.
Official sources: