How to Transfer Car Ownership in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Transferring car ownership in Dubai is not only a legal requirement but also an important step to protect both the buyer and seller.

Ensuring the new owner is officially registered and the seller is no longer liable is essential in any vehicle transaction.

While the process may seem complex, this guide simplifies everything—from required documents and eligibility criteria to fees and step-by-step procedures—ensuring a smooth and compliant transfer of car ownership in Dubai.

What is Car Ownership Transfer?

• The process of officially changing the registered owner of a vehicle.
• It is a required procedure in Dubai.
• Ensures the new owner assumes all rights, duties, and liabilities associated with the vehicle.

Why Is It Important to Transfer Car Ownership?

• Protects the buyer from any previous liabilities tied to the vehicle.
• Gives the seller legal proof that they are no longer responsible for the car.
• Ensures transparency and security in the transaction.
• Safeguards the interests of both parties.

What Are the Legal Responsibilities?

• Includes the transfer of liability for traffic violations.
• Ensures the buyer takes on insurance obligations.
• Protects against any future claims involving the vehicle.
• Failure to complete the transfer can lead to legal and financial issues for both the buyer and seller.

Eligibility Criteria for Transferring Car Ownership in Dubai

By fulfilling these criteria, both individuals and companies can facilitate a successful transfer of car ownership in Dubai:

For Individuals:

To successfully complete the car ownership transfer process in Dubai, individuals must meet the following criteria:

1. Citizenship or Residency:
   1. The buyer must be a UAE citizen or a resident holding a valid residency visa.
2. Clearance of Dues:
   1. The seller must clear all outstanding dues, including fines and penalties, before the transfer can take place.
3. Vehicle Inspection:
   1. The vehicle must pass the required inspection tests to ensure it complies with safety and regulatory standards. This step is mandatory for finalizing the ownership transfer.

For Companies:

When it comes to businesses, the requirements for transferring car ownership in Dubai include:

1. Trade License:
   1. The company must provide a valid trade license to initiate the transfer process.
2. Official Letter:
   1. An official letter, typically written in Arabic, is required as part of the documentation.
3. No Objection Certificate (NOC):
   1. In certain cases, particularly for companies operating in free zones like the Dubai Technology Media Free Zone or Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), a No Objection Certificate may be necessary.
4. Compliance with Documentation:
   1. All necessary documents must be properly prepared and submitted to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transfer of vehicle ownership.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transfer Car Ownership in Dubai

 Step 1: Gather Required Documents

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free transfer of car ownership in Dubai, both the buyer and seller must gather specific documents before visiting the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority).

Here’s a comprehensive list of what each party needs to bring:

For Individuals:

For the Seller:

• Original Emirates ID: The seller must present a valid Emirates ID. If it’s expired or invalid, an original passport can be provided instead.
• Original Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya): This document proves the seller’s ownership of the vehicle.
• Proof of Cleared Fines: If there are any outstanding fines, they must be cleared before the transfer.
• Passport Copy: Required for expatriates.

For the Buyer:

• Original Emirates ID: The buyer must also show a valid Emirates ID. If they are a GCC national, a current passport copy may be needed.
• Valid Insurance: The vehicle must have insurance in the buyer’s name.
• Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is necessary for the buyer.
• Passport Copy: Required for expatriates.
• Bank Loan Documents: If the vehicle is financed, the buyer should bring relevant loan documents.

Vehicle Testing Requirements:

If the car is older than three years, it must pass a vehicle inspection to ensure it meets safety and emissions standards. This inspection can be done at any RTA-approved vehicle testing center.

Test Certificate Validity: The inspection certificate is valid for 30 days, so it’s important to plan the transfer within this timeframe.

Additional Documents for Special Cases

For Foreign Diplomats: Diplomats must provide a valid diplomatic card and a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to complete the transfer.

For Residents Sponsored by Specific Organizations: Residents sponsored by organizations like the Oilfields Supply Centrer need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their sponsor to register the vehicle.

Documents for Companies

When a company is involved in the transfer, additional documents are required:

• Trade License: Companies must provide a valid trade license to verify their legitimacy and authorization to operate in the UAE.
• Official Letter: An official letter, usually written in Arabic, must be submitted to indicate the company’s intent to transfer ownership. This letter needs to be signed and stamped by authorized representatives.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): Companies in specific free zones, such as the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone or Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), may need an NOC to confirm there are no legal objections to the transfer.
• Technical Inspection Certificates: The company must provide a technical inspection certificate to confirm that the vehicle meets all regulatory and safety standards.
• Electronic Insurance Policies: An electronic copy of the vehicle’s insurance policy should be submitted as part of the transfer.

General Requirements for Both Individuals and Companies

Regardless of whether the transfer involves an individual or a company, the following documents are generally required:

• Insurance Documents: Provide a valid insurance policy to ensure coverage under the new owner’s name after the transfer.
• Inspection Certificates: A technical inspection certificate is required to confirm the vehicle’s condition and compliance with regulations, obtained from an authorized testing center in Dubai.
• Clearance of Existing Loans: If the vehicle is financed, the seller must secure a clearance letter from the bank, confirming all loans have been settled.

This ensures the vehicle is free of financial obligations before the transfer.

Step 2: Visit the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority)

Both the buyer and seller should go to the nearest RTA service center or an authorized agent together.

Customer Happiness Centers:

• Deira
• Al Barsha
• Umm Ramool
• Al Manara
• Al Twar

Submit all gathered documents and the technical inspection certificate (if applicable).

Vehicle Registration and Inspection Centers:

• Al Qusais Registration
• Al Barsha Registration
• Warsan Registration
• Jebel Ali Registration
• 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

Step 3: Submit the Transfer Application

Begin by obtaining the vehicle ownership transfer application form, which is necessary for processing the transfer.

After you have completed the form, ensure you gather all the required documents listed in Step 1.

Once everything is ready, submit the application form along with these documents to the appropriate authority.

Taking your time to double-check the documents will help streamline the process and avoid any potential delays.

Step 4: Pay Required Fees

This comprehensive table outlines the various fees related to different vehicle types, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the financial aspects of the transaction.

Vehicle Type	Fee (AED)
Private or public light vehicles	350
Private vehicles weighing between 3-12 tones	400
Public vehicles weighing between 3-12 tones	650
Private vehicles exceeding a weight of 12 tones	800
Public vehicles exceeding a weight of 12 tones	1000
Private light mechanical equipment	500
Public light mechanical equipment	700

Step 5: Receive the New Registration Card (Mulkiya)

Once the fees are settled, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will process your request, issuing the new Mulkiya (vehicle registration card) in the name of the new owner.

This card is essential as it serves as the official documentation of the ownership transfer and must be always kept with the vehicle.

In both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the transfer process may take a few days to complete.

It’s important to diligently follow each step to ensure everything goes smoothly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding vehicle ownership transfers, always consult the official government websites of the respective traffic authorities.

The Dubai RTA website (www.rta.ae) is a reliable source for details specific to Dubai.

Step 6: Collect or Submit License Plates (If Applicable)

This step ensures the vehicle is properly registered with the appropriate license plates under the new owner’s name.

Step 7: Transfer Car Insurance

Having valid insurance under the new owner’s name is crucial for legal driving. Ensure the insurance transfer is completed alongside the ownership transfer for a seamless process.

Notify Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurance company about the vehicle purchase to initiate the transfer of the existing policy.

Provide Required Information: Submit details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), registration number, and previous owner’s information to the insurer.

Transfer or Obtain Insurance: If we keep the existing policy, the insurance provider will adjust the details based on the new owner. Alternatively, the buyer can opt for a new policy, providing the necessary documents to the insurance company.

Receive Updated Documentation: After the transfer or new policy issuance, obtain the updated insurance documents. These are essential for vehicle registration at the RTA.

Additional Considerations

Transfers Involving a Loan

When a vehicle is financed through a bank loan, additional documentation is necessary for the transfer of ownership in Dubai.

The seller must provide a release letter or clearance from the bank, indicating that the loan has been fully settled or that the buyer will assume responsibility for the loan.

Transfers Between Emirates

If the buyer and seller are located in different emirates, the process for transferring car ownership in Dubai involves extra steps.

First, the seller must de-register the vehicle in their emirate. Afterward, the vehicle must be re-registered in the buyer’s emirate.

Vehicle Ownership Transfer Online Process in Dubai

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai provides a straightforward online platform for transferring car ownership, making it easy and efficient.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing the transfer online:

This online process streamlines the car ownership transfer, allowing you to complete it conveniently from home or work without needing to visit an RTA center.

Key Points for Car Ownership Transfer in the UAE

• Transportation Regulations:
• A recovery truck is required for transporting a vehicle from Dubai to another emirate.
• You cannot drive the car without number plates.
• The Dubai RTA does not issue new number plates for vehicles being exported within the UAE.
• Cost of Transportation: The cost to transport a vehicle between neighboring emirates should not exceed AED 500.
• Physical Presence Required: Both the current owner and the new owner must be present during the transfer process.
• Legal Representation: If either party cannot attend, they can send a legal representative with the power of attorney.
• Complete Services Required: Make sure the application includes all necessary services, such as registration, vehicle transfer, and export.
• Residence Conditions: If you have a residence visa from another emirate, you must be:
• An investor in Dubai.
• Employed at a company with a branch in Dubai.
• A resident with proof of tenancy or utility bills.
• Employed by a governmental or semi-governmental agency.
• A student with a university letter.

Final thoughts

Transferring car ownership in Dubai is a legal process that protects both buyers and sellers, ensuring that the new owner is officially registered while relieving the seller of any liabilities.

To successfully navigate this process, individuals and companies must adhere to specific eligibility criteria, gather necessary documents, and follow the structured steps outlined.

This includes clearing any outstanding fines, completing vehicle inspections, and paying applicable fees at the RTA service center or through the online platform.

Whether opting for an in-person or online transfer, understanding the legal responsibilities and ensuring all documentation is accurate is essential for a smooth transaction.

FAQ