Are you planning to sell your car in Dubai? Transferring car ownership in Dubai can seem daunting, with various legal and administrative requirements. However, the process can be smooth and hassle-free with the proper guidance and preparation.
We will provide a comprehensive guide on transferring car ownership in Dubai. We'll walk you through the required documents, fees, and steps involved in transferring ownership. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information you need to make a successful transfer and avoid any fines or penalties. So, let's get started! The cost of keeping a car in the UAE is becoming expensive. You can easily spend over AED 1,500 per month on gas, insurance, and car payments. Maybe that's why you want to sell your car, or there is any other reason.
Let's dive in!
How to Change Car Ownership in the UAE
You can transfer vehicle ownership in the UAE if you're the verifiable owner. In other words, you can sell your car but not one belonging to a friend or family member. Even if you have a person's permission to transfer ownership on their behalf, doing so is illegal in the UAE.
The vehicle should be registered in your name and have insurance. Now that we've taken care of some legal matters, here's how to go about selling your car:
Step 1: Check Online Status
Before selling your car, you must check the RTA status of your vehicle. This will ensure that all outstanding fines and insurance charges are settled. You can use the Roads and Transport Authority app for this purpose. If any pending penalties or a new annual registration fee needs to be paid, you must settle these before transferring ownership of your vehicle.
You cannot transfer a car if it has pending fines; for the same reason, you must pay any fine you have not paid to avoid problems in the process.
You can clear your fines easily at the nearest police station, or you can also do it online.
Total payment of bank loan on the vehicle
Any bank loan that you have on the vehicle must be paid before selling it. The RTA will not approve a car transfer if it still has an active bank loan that has not been paid in full.
At CYCUAE, we can buy your used car even if you have a bank loan
After paying the entire bank loan, you must obtain a final payment receipt from the Bank, and then you can carry out the transfer process.
You can also check if the Bank can give you a
NOC (No Objection Certificate).
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Several legal documents are required when transferring vehicle ownership, so you'll want to ensure everything is in order. First and foremost, have your Emirates ID with you, as well as your passport. You'll need to prove your identity.
Another essential document you'll need is the vehicle's original registration card (mukhiya). You can use this as proof of car ownership. Insurance papers and your driver's license are also required.
You'll also need to bring a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if you're a diplomat transferring vehicles.
The new owner has to submit some documents as well. Their original Emirates ID and a copy of their passport are needed if you're selling to a resident. If a diplomat purchases your vehicle, collect their valid diplomatic card and a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
If you have lost one or both of your license plates, bring a police report.
When you're unsure exactly what to bring, it's best to ask your dealership or insurance provider. They'll be able to tell you which documents are required for a successful transfer to Dubai.
Step 3: Pay Transfer Fees
You can transfer ownership of a vehicle by going to either the Dubai Traffic Police HQ or an RTA licensing centre. The current and new owners must be present for the transaction to occur.
As the seller/current owner, you must handle the transfer fees. You will pay these at the time of the transfer. The total can vary depending on your vehicle.
Once you cover the fees, the RTA will issue a receipt upon your request.
You can see and consult the complete list of the official fees on the RTA page in Service Fees.
What Are the Fees for Ownership Transfer?
You must pay AED 350 as a transfer fee, strictly for light vehicles—any motor vehicle under 3 tonnes. If you're selling a heavier car, here are the transfer fees you can expect to pay:
For a vehicle between 3 and 12 tonnes, the fee is AED 400. For public vehicles with a gross weight of over three tons but not exceeding twelve, the charge will be AED 650.
Private cars that are over 12 tonnes will cost AED 800. This fee rises to AED 1000 if it's a public vehicle of the same weight.
Furthermore, you will incur a sales fee of AED 50 and an innovation fee of AED 20.
Let's look at the steps to achieve a transfer
1 - Make a vehicle permit application for the buyer and new owner (Apply for changing Vehicle ownership)
2 - Presentation of the required documents of both the seller and the buyer and the permit application at the registration counter.
License Plate Fees
The new number plates will cost you AED 35 for the smaller ones and up to AED 500 if yours is extra-large. The price depends on your plate's category (long, luxury, etc.). Here's a breakdown:
Is It Possible to Change the Ownership of the Car in Another Emirate?
Yes, it's possible to change the ownership of a car in another emirate. However, the vehicle must be driven onto a truck, transporting it from one emirate to another. Because the vehicle is unregistered, its number plates are missing, making driving illegal.
You and the buyer must submit the documents mentioned above during this process. In addition, the new owner must register the vehicle in that emirate.
How Long Does It Take to Transfer Car Ownership?
You can complete a sale in 30 minutes, but a total transfer can take anywhere from a week to a month. The RTA needs time to process the documents, but they will notify you when it is done. You can check online or via SMS if the transfer is complete.
Can You Transfer Car Ownership Online in the UAE?
There is no online vehicle ownership transfer option in the UAE, but you can still apply for one by uploading documents to the RTA's website. You can also settle transfer fees in this same portal.
Follow UAE Car Ownership Transfer Laws
If you are about to transfer car ownership in the UAE, it's not as simple as just signing the documents. There are many legal requirements that you must adhere to. Follow the rules set by the RTA and Dubai Police and their respective websites.
In addition, it's highly recommended that you work with a registered car buyer in Dubai. Cash Your Car UAE offers the best online platform for selling your car.
Use our evaluation tool to get a fair estimate for your car. Then, cash it out in 30 minutes or less.