Buying a used car in the UAE can be a great way to save money, but only if you know what you’re getting into. A car might look shiny and spotless on the outside.
Still, if it has been involved in a major accident, that could indicate hidden repairs, safety issues, and a significantly lower resale value.
That’s why it’s important to check the car’s accident history before you buy it. You can do this for free, using official tools available right here in the UAE.
Let’s walk through the process together, step by step.
Why is Checking Accident History Important?
You’ve probably heard stories from friends or colleagues—someone bought a used car that looked perfect on the surface, only to find out it had been involved in a serious crash.
Now they’re dealing with poor performance, endless trips to the garage, or worse—safety concerns.
Many cars in the UAE get resold after being repaired from accidents. Some of those repairs are done professionally, while others may cut corners. Either way, if you’re a buyer, you deserve to know what you’re getting into.
By checking the accident history for free, you get a clear idea of:
- Whether the car was ever involved in an accident
- The severity of damage (minor or major)
- The number of incidents reported
- Which emirate did the accident happened in
This information helps you negotiate a fair price, avoid surprises, and stay safe on the road.
How to Check Car Accident History for Free in UAE
The fastest way to check a car’s accident history in the UAE is through the official government websites using the car’s chassis number (also called VIN – Vehicle Identification Number).
| Platform | Emirate | Type | Free? | Website |
| Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) | Abu Dhabi | Federal | Yes | evg.ae |
| Ministry of Interior (MOI) | All Emirates | Federal | Yes | moi.gov.ae |
| RTA Dubai | Dubai Only | Local | Paid | rta.ae |
Let’s see how to use each one below.
How to Use Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG)
If the car was registered in Abu Dhabi or has ever been in that emirate, EVG is your go-to option. It’s fast, accurate, and free.
Here’s how to check the accident history using EVG:
- Visit www.evg.ae
- Click on “Traffic Accidents Management” under services
- Choose “Search Vehicle Accident History”
- Enter the chassis number (VIN)
- Click “Search”
What you’ll see:
- List of reported accidents
- Date and emirate of each accident
- Type of accident (minor/major)
- Damage level (if available)
This gives you a clear picture of the car’s past. If nothing appears, great—it means no accidents have been reported.
Pro Tip: If the seller doesn’t want to share the chassis number, that’s a red flag. Walk away.
Read More: How To Sell Your Car In Dubai
How to Use the Ministry of Interior (MOI) Website
The MOI portal works across the UAE, including Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and even Dubai.
Here’s how to check accident history on MOI:
- Go to www.moi.gov.ae
- Switch to English (top right corner)
- Go to the “E-Services” section
- Choose “Traffic Accidents” then “Vehicle Accidents Inquiry”
- Enter the chassis number
- View accident records
The system will show you any recorded incidents, including:
- Number of accidents
- The emirate where it occurred
- General classification of damage
It’s free, fast, and official—just what you need before making any purchase decision.
What If the Car Is Registered in Dubai? Use RTA
Dubai cars are usually registered under the Road and Transport Authority (RTA). While RTA doesn’t offer accident history for free, you can still check it for a small fee.
How to check via RTA Dubai:
- Go to the RTA website.
- Look for “Technical Vehicle Status Certificate”
- Enter the vehicle details and pay the small fee (around AED 100)
- Receive a full vehicle condition report, including accident history, mileage, and ownership
While it’s not free, it’s still worth doing for high-value cars. You get a complete picture, especially for vehicles that have gone through ownership transfers or insurance claims.
What is a Chassis Number & Where Do You Find It?
The chassis number, also called VIN, is the unique code that identifies your car. It’s like a fingerprint—it tells the story of the vehicle’s manufacturing, history, and records.
You can find the chassis number:
- On the car’s registration card (Mulkiya)
- Etched on the car chassis (usually near the engine or under the windshield)
- On the driver-side door frame (a metal plate or sticker)
Always double-check that this number matches across documents and the car body. If they don’t match, something is off.
Things You Should Know Before Relying on Accident History Alone
While online reports are helpful, they don’t always tell the whole story.
Here’s why:
- Not all accidents are reported.
Minor fender-benders or private repairs may not appear in the database. - Accident reports may miss details.
Some platforms only show the number of accidents, not the full severity. - Cross-border cars may lack records.
If the car was imported from another country (like the US or Japan), UAE systems might not have its full history.
Additional Tips Before Buying a Used Car
To be 100% sure before buying, follow these tips:
1. Always Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
You can’t always see the damage with your eyes. A mechanic can check alignment, bodywork, frame damage, and engine issues.
2. Ask for a Full Service History
A car that’s been regularly serviced is less likely to have hidden issues.
3. Check the Car’s Current Market Value
Some sellers lower prices after an accident, but some don’t. Always get a free car valuation first.
4. Avoid Rushing the Deal
Scammers pressure you to pay fast. If the seller isn’t open to showing accident history, walk away.
Let’s Take an Example
Let’s say you’re looking at two 2021 Toyota Yaris models:
| Feature | Car A | Car B |
| Price | AED 47,000 | AED 38,000 |
| Mileage | 55,000 km | 59,000 km |
| Accident History | No accidents (EVG check) | 2 accidents (MOI) |
| Condition | Excellent | Visible bumper repair |
| Resale Value Potential | High | Lower |
On the surface, they look similar. However, after reviewing the accident history, Car A offers better long-term value, even though it costs more upfront.
Check: Discount on Traffic Fines in Dubai (2025 Guide)
Always Check Before You Buy
The best way to check a car accident history in the UAE for free is to use official government websites like EVG (for Abu Dhabi) or MOI (for all Emirates).
If the car is from Dubai, the RTA report (even though paid) is a wise investment, especially for expensive models.
Don’t just trust what the seller says. Use the chassis number, run a free check, and verify everything before you buy.
