To transfer car ownership in Dubai, you will need your Emirates ID, the seller’s Emirates ID, the original registration card (Mulkiya), a NOC from the bank (if applicable), and comprehensive insurance. Visit any RTA Customer Happiness Center or use the Dubai Drive app to complete the transfer, paying a fee of AED 420.
Essential Requirements and Documents
Table of Contents
Here is the complete document checklist for the seller and the buyer.
Seller Requirements:
- Original Emirates ID (not a copy)
- Original vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
- Passport copy with a valid UAE visa
- Salary certificate or employment letter
Buyer Requirements:
- Original Emirates ID
- Passport copy with a valid UAE visa
- Valid UAE driving license
- Proof of UAE residence (utility bill or tenancy contract)
Vehicle Requirements:
- Valid comprehensive insurance policy
- Technical inspection certificate (if vehicle is over 5 years old)
- Clear traffic fine record
- Vehicle physically present for inspection
Special Cases:
- Bank NOC letter for financed vehicles
- Death certificate and court order for inherited vehicles
- Power of attorney for third-party transfers
- Company trade license for business transfers
Fee Structure
The standard transfer fee is AED 420, but additional costs may apply:
| Service | Cost (AED) | Notes |
| Basic Transfer Fee | 420 | Standard for all transfers |
| Plate Retention | 100 | Keep the existing number plate |
| New Plate (Special) | 500-50,000 | Depends on the number preference |
| Technical Inspection | 170 | Required for vehicles over 5 years |
| Insurance Transfer | 0-200 | Varies by insurance company |
Money-Saving Tip: Complete your transfer before the registration expires to avoid renewal fees of AED 300.
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
- Method 1: RTA Customer Happiness Centers
- Method 2: Dubai Drive App Process
- Method 3: Authorized Service Centers
Method 1: RTA Customer Happiness Centers
Step 1: Choose Your Location
Dubai has seven main RTA centers. Pick the one closest to you:
- Deira Center: Near Dubai Creek, best for morning visits
- Al Barsha Center: Less crowded, ideal for afternoon appointments
- Umm Ramool Center: Largest facility with shortest wait times
- Al Awir Center: Serves mostly commercial vehicles
- Dubai Investment Park: Newest facility with modern amenities
- Al Karama Center: Central location, gets busy during lunch hours
- Nad Al Sheba Center: Quieter option, good for complex cases
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
Call 800-90-90 or use the Dubai Drive app to book. Pro tip: Tuesday through Thursday mornings have the shortest wait times.
Step 3: Arrive Prepared
Bring all original documents in a clear folder. Arrive 15 minutes early to review your paperwork with the reception staff.
Step 4: Complete the Transfer
The RTA officer will:
- Verify all documents
- Check the vehicle’s physical condition
- Process payment
- Issue new registration documents
- Processing time: 30-45 minutes for straightforward cases.
Method 2: Dubai Drive App Process
The digital option works best for simple transfers without complications.
1: Download and Set Up
- Install Dubai Drive from the App Store or Google Play
- Create an account using your Emirates ID
- Link your UAE Pass for faster verification
2: Start Transfer Process
- Select “Vehicle Services” → “Ownership Transfer”
- Enter vehicle plate number and traffic code
- Upload clear photos of the required documents
3: Payment and Verification
- Pay AED 420 using a credit card or Dubai Pay
- Wait for document verification (24-48 hours)
- Receive SMS confirmation when approved
4: Document Delivery
- New Mulkiya delivered to your address
- Delivery takes 3-5 business days
- Track shipment through the app
Limitation: Digital transfers are not applicable for vehicles with outstanding loans, inheritance cases, or those requiring technical inspections.
Method 3: Authorized Service Centers
Private companies like Al-Futtaim Automall and Tasjeel offer transfer services.
Advantages:
- Extended operating hours
- Faster processing for routine transfers
- Package deals including insurance and registration
- Dedicated customer service representatives
Costs:
- Service fee: AED 150-300 (plus RTA fees)
- Total cost: AED 570-720
- Worth it for complex cases or time-sensitive transfers
Transfer Readiness Checklist
One Week Before:
- Gather all required documents
- Check and clear any traffic fines
- Verify insurance policy validity
- Book an RTA appointment or download the Dubai Drive app
Day of Transfer:
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Bring original documents only
- Have exact payment ready (card or cash)
- Take photos of the new Mulkiya for records
After Transfer:
- Update the insurance company within 24 hours
- Transfer the Salik account within 30 days
- Update Emirates NBD or other bank records
- Inform your employer about parking permits
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: “Document not accepted”
Solution:
- Ensure all documents are original, not copies
- Check document expiry dates
- Verify names match exactly across all papers
Problem: “Outstanding traffic fines”
Solution:
- Pay fines immediately through the Dubai Police app
- Allow 24 hours for the system update
- Return to RTA with payment receipt
Problem: “Technical inspection required”
Solution:
- Visit the Tasjeel center first
- Get an inspection certificate
- Return to RTA same day (certificate valid 30 days)
Processing Delays
If your transfer takes longer than expected:
- Check application status through the Dubai Drive app
- Call RTA customer service at 800-90-90
- Visit the processing center with your reference number
- Escalate to a supervisor if the issue persists beyond 48 hours
Emergency Situations
Lost Documents During Transfer:
- Emirates ID: Get emergency replacement same day
- Mulkiya: Request a duplicate from the original RTA center
- Insurance: Contact the provider for an immediate replacement copy
Urgent Transfer Requirements:
- Some RTA centers offer express service for an additional AED 100
- Private service centers can expedite for AED 200-300
- Emergency cases (travel, medical) get priority processing
Time-Saving Tips
Best Times to Visit RTA:
- Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00-10:00 AM (shortest queues)
- Avoid: Monday mornings and Thursday afternoons
- Ramadan hours: 9:00 AM-2:00 PM (less crowded)
Document Preparation:
- Organize papers in order of the RTA checklist
- Make backup copies (keep in the car)
- Pre-fill application forms online
- Bring a phone charger for long waits
Long-term Cost Management
For Car Dealers:
- Bulk transfer agreements reduce per-unit costs
- Monthly payment plans available for high-volume dealers
- Staff training programs improve processing efficiency
For Individual Buyers:
- Time transfers with registration renewals
- Consider keeping current plates to save AED 100
- Shop around for insurance during the transfer process
Essential Contacts and Resources
RTA Customer Service
- Phone: 800-90-90 (24/7 hotline)
- WhatsApp: +971-4-208-8888
- Email: [email protected]
- Website:ae
Emergency Support
- RTA Emergency: 800-90-90
- Dubai Police Traffic: 901
- Insurance Claims: Contact your provider directly
Additional Resources
- Dubai Drive App: Free download from app stores
- RTA Smart Services: Online portal for most services
- UAE Pass: Government digital identity platform
- Tasjeel Centers: Vehicle inspection services
Legal Consultation
- Dubai Legal Affairs Department: For complex inheritance cases
- Private Law Firms: Consult for dispute resolution
- Consumer Protection: For dealer-related issues
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does car ownership transfer take in Dubai?
Standard transfers take 30-45 minutes at RTA centers. Digital transfers through the Dubai Drive app take 24-48 hours for processing, plus 3-5 days for document delivery.
What happens if the seller has a loan on the vehicle?
You need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the lending bank. The seller must request this from their bank, which typically takes 2-5 business days to process.
Can I transfer ownership without the seller being present?
No, both buyer and seller must be physically present at RTA centers unless you have a notarized power of attorney. Digital transfers still require the digital signatures of both parties.
What is the cost of transferring car ownership in Dubai?
The basic fee is AED 420. Additional costs include plate retention (AED 100), technical inspection (AED 170), and service center fees (AED 150-300 if used).
Do I need to change my insurance before the transfer?
Yes, inform your insurance company before or immediately after transfer. Most companies require notification within 24 hours to maintain coverage validity.
What if the vehicle fails the technical inspection during transfer?
You must fix the issues and pass inspection before proceeding. Common failures include tire condition, lights, and emissions. Budget extra time and money for repairs.
Can tourists or visitors transfer car ownership in Dubai?
No, both parties must hold valid UAE residence visas. Tourists can only drive with an international license but cannot own a vehicle.
How do I transfer ownership if the seller left the country?
You need a power of attorney notarized by the UAE consulate in their current location. This process can take 2-4 weeks and costs AED 500-1,500.
What documents do I need for family car transfers?
Same basic documents plus family relationship proof (marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificate for children). No additional fees for immediate family transfers.
Can I keep the same license plate after ownership transfer?
Yes, but you must specifically request plate retention and pay AED 100. Otherwise, you receive a new random plate number.
How do I transfer ownership for a damaged or accident vehicle?
The vehicle must pass technical inspection. If it fails due to accident damage, complete repairs first. You may need a police accident report and an insurance clearance letter.
Also Read: How to Report Accident in Dubai
What are the penalties for delayed ownership transfer?
RTA requires transfer within 30 days of the signing of the sale agreement. Delays can result in fines of AED 400-1,000, plus daily penalties for traffic violations that occur during the delay period.
Final Steps to Success
Successfully transferring car ownership in Dubai requires careful preparation, proper documentation, and understanding of RTA procedures. The process becomes straightforward when you follow the correct steps and avoid common pitfalls.
Key Takeaways:
- Gather all required documents before starting your transfer
- Choose the transfer method that suits your timeline and complexity needs
- Verify seller legitimacy and vehicle history thoroughly
- Budget for all fees and potential additional costs like inspections
Your Next Steps:
- Review your specific situation using our comprehensive checklist
- Contact RTA customer service at 800-90-90 for unique circumstances
- Consider professional assistance through authorized service centers for complex transfers
- Download the Dubai Drive app if you plan to use digital services
For ongoing support and updates on Dubai’s automotive regulations, bookmark this guide and regularly check the RTA’s official announcements for the latest information. Please note that policies are subject to change, so always verify the current requirements before proceeding with your transfer. The RTA website and customer service team provide the most up-to-date information for any special circumstances not covered in this guide.