Selling or buying a car in the UAE isn’t just about agreeing on a price and shaking hands. To make the deal legal, you need to transfer car ownership properly through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or relevant emirate’s traffic department. This process is essential because the official owner is the one responsible for fines, Salik tolls, and insurance.
If you’re wondering how to transfer car ownership in UAE, the process is actually straightforward when you know the required steps, documents, and fees. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
- The complete vehicle ownership transfer process in Dubai and other emirates.
- Required documents for sellers and buyers.
- RTA ownership transfer fees.
- Special cases like transferring a financed car or gifting a car.
- Tips to avoid common mistakes.
To transfer ownership, both buyer and seller must visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center or approved service center with the right documents, pay the fees, and issue a new Mulkiya (vehicle registration card) under the buyer’s name.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Car Ownership Transfer Process in UAE
The car ownership transfer UAE process is not just a formality. It protects both the buyer and seller.
- For Sellers: You won’t be liable for future traffic fines, Salik toll charges, or accidents once the car is officially transferred.
- For Buyers: You become the legal owner, which allows you to insure the car, renew registration, and resell it later.
Many expats who are selling a used car in Dubai make the mistake of handing over the car and cash without completing the RTA transfer. This can lead to legal and financial issues later. Always finish the transfer before giving away the keys.
Documents Required for Car Ownership Transfer
Both the seller and buyer must bring certain documents. Missing even one can delay the process.
Seller’s Documents:
- Original Emirates ID.
- Original vehicle registration card (Mulkiya).
- Passport copy & residence visa (for expats).
- Mortgage clearance letter (if the car is financed).
Buyer’s Documents:
- Original Emirates ID.
- Valid UAE driving license.
- Passport copy & residence visa (for expats).
- Car insurance (must be arranged before transfer).
Other Cases:
- If the car is under company ownership, you’ll need the trade license copy and a signed NOC on company letterhead.
- If transferring between family members, a proof of relation certificate may be required.
Insurance is a must for buyers. Without insurance, RTA won’t issue the new Mulkiya. For help, see our detailed guide on how to check accident history before insuring a used car.
Where to Transfer Car Ownership in Dubai & UAE
The process is handled by the RTA in Dubai, and by respective traffic authorities in other emirates.
Main Transfer Locations in Dubai
- RTA Customer Happiness Centers (Deira, Al Barsha, Al Manara, Umm Ramool).
- Tasjeel Centers.
- Shamil Centers.
- Mumayaz Centers.
- Wasel Vehicle Testing Centers.
Other Emirates
- Abu Dhabi: ADNOC Vehicle Inspection Centers.
- Sharjah: Sharjah Police Licensing Department.
- Ajman, Fujairah, RAK, and Umm Al Quwain: Police traffic departments and approved centers.
The good news is that RTA car ownership transfer takes less than 30 minutes if all documents are ready.
Step-by-Step Vehicle Ownership Transfer Process in Dubai
Here’s the exact process for transferring a car in Dubai:
- Car Testing:
- The vehicle must pass an RTA technical inspection (not required if the car is brand new).
- Test cost: ~AED 170.
- Validity: 30 days.
- The vehicle must pass an RTA technical inspection (not required if the car is brand new).
- Insurance Setup:
- The buyer must arrange car insurance before the transfer.
- The buyer must arrange car insurance before the transfer.
- Clear Dues & Fines:
- Seller must clear any outstanding traffic fines, Salik tolls, or black points.
- You can pay fines online or at RTA centers.
- Seller must clear any outstanding traffic fines, Salik tolls, or black points.
- Visit RTA or Approved Center:
- Both parties go together with documents.
- Submit application and documents.
- Both parties go together with documents.
- Pay Transfer Fees:
- Fees depend on vehicle type (see table below).
- Fees depend on vehicle type (see table below).
- Receive New Mulkiya:
- The buyer gets a new vehicle registration card (Mulkiya).
- The seller gets a confirmation slip stating the car is no longer in their name.
- The buyer gets a new vehicle registration card (Mulkiya).
Pro Tip: If you’re selling a car quickly in Dubai, you can use RTA’s online appointment booking to avoid queues.
Car Ownership Transfer Fees in Dubai (RTA Fees)
Here’s a breakdown of RTA car ownership transfer fees in Dubai:
| Vehicle Type | Transfer Fee (AED) |
| Light Vehicle (Car) | 350 |
| Motorcycle | 200 |
| Heavy Vehicle (Truck) | 400 |
| Classic Car | 200 |
| Export Plate Issuance | 100 + 400 (plates) |
Additional costs:
- Knowledge/Innovation Fee: AED 20.
- Vehicle plate fees if new plates are needed.
So, if you’re transferring a sedan, expect the total to be around AED 400–500, depending on plate requirements.
How to Transfer a Financed Car in UAE
If the car has an active loan (mortgage), you can’t transfer ownership until it’s cleared.
Process for Financed Cars:
- Pay off the remaining loan with your bank.
- Get a mortgage release letter from the bank.
- Update RTA records with mortgage clearance.
- Proceed with the standard transfer process.
Some banks allow car loan takeovers, where the buyer assumes the remaining loan. In this case, the process requires additional approval from the bank.
If you’re stuck between loan vs lease options, check our detailed guide on car loan vs lease in the UAE.
Car Ownership Transfer Between Family or as a Gift
- Family Transfers: Allowed if you provide proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificate). Fees may be discounted.
- Gift Transfers: You’ll still need to follow the same process, but note that RTA charges full transfer fees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Ownership Transfer
Even though the process is simple, many people face issues because of small mistakes.
- Not clearing fines: Even a small unpaid Salik toll can block the transfer.
- Insurance delays: Without valid insurance in the buyer’s name, RTA won’t issue the Mulkiya.
- Expired vehicle testing certificate: Make sure testing is done within 30 days before transfer.
- Not accompanying buyer/seller: Both must be present unless one has a notarized Power of Attorney.
How Long Does Car Ownership Transfer Take?
On average, the whole process takes:
- Car testing: 20 minutes.
- RTA transfer paperwork: 10–15 minutes.
- Insurance linking: 5 minutes.
Total time: 30–40 minutes if documents and payments are ready.
Car Ownership Transfer vs Car Selling Services
Some people choose to sell their car directly to dealerships or use car buying services in Dubai. These companies often handle the ownership transfer process for you, making it hassle-free.
However, selling privately may get you a better price. The choice depends on whether you want speed or maximum resale value.
Vehicle Ownership Transfer Process Outside Dubai
Although the process is similar across the UAE, here are a few differences:
- Abu Dhabi: Transfer at ADNOC inspection centers or TAMM service centers.
- Sharjah: Transfer at Sharjah Police Traffic & Licensing Department.
- RAK, Ajman, Fujairah: Transfer through police-approved testing centers.
Always check local emirate rules, as some may have slightly different fees.
Checklist Before You Transfer Car Ownership
Here’s a quick checklist for sellers and buyers:
Seller’s Checklist:
- Clear all fines.
- Settle car loan (if any).
- Prepare Emirates ID & Mulkiya.
- Arrange buyer meeting at RTA center.
Buyer’s Checklist:
- Arrange valid car insurance.
- Prepare Emirates ID & license.
- Bring payment for transfer fees.
- Inspect car history and accident record.
RTA Online Services for Car Ownership Transfer
RTA now offers several online features:
- Book appointments for testing and transfer.
- Check pending fines.
- Pay transfer fees online.
- Get SMS updates on transfer status.
Still, the physical presence of both parties is required to complete the process, except in cases of Power of Attorney.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to transfer car ownership in the UAE, from required documents to fees, special cases, and even tips to speed up the process.
The key takeaway:
- Always transfer through RTA or approved centers.
- Clear fines and loans before starting.
- Buyer must have insurance in place.
- The process usually takes less than 40 minutes.
Whether you’re selling a used car in Dubai or buying your first sedan, completing the RTA car ownership transfer ensures peace of mind and legal protection.
