How to Transfer Car Ownership in Dubai

 

Understanding how to transfer ownership of a car in Dubai is essential, whether you're selling your current vehicle or purchasing a new one. With clear steps and a bit of preparation, the process remains safe, simple, and stress-free. This guide by BYD UAE walks you through how to transfer car ownership in Dubai, from required documents and vehicle inspection to paying fees and visiting the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This overview helps both buyers and sellers navigate the ownership transfer process with confidence and clarity.

 

What Is Vehicle Ownership Transfer?

 

The transfer vehicle ownership process confirms that all rights, responsibilities, and liabilities move from the seller to the new owner. Dubai’s transport authority, the RTA, oversees this car ownership transfer. Their aim is to make the transfer process legal and transparent, protecting all parties involved.
Whether your car is private, owned by a company, registered in another emirate like Abu Dhabi, or even assigned to a media-free zone, you must follow the rules to complete the transfer legally. These safeguards keep Dubai roads safer and the ownership records accurate.

 

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

 

1. Gather All the Required Documents

 

- Start by collecting these essential papers:
- Original vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
- Emirates ID for both the seller and the buyer
- Valid driving license for the new owner
- Proof of car insurance under the buyer’s name
- Completed vehicle inspection certificate from an RTA centre
- Copy of the objection certificate, if the car was financed
- Copy of trade license and official letter, if owned by a company
- Valid diplomatic card, if applicable
- Supporting documents from the ministry or foreign affairs, as needed
- Evidence of fully settled outstanding fines, tolls, or debts
- The required documents may vary depending on the vehicle's type, whether it’s registered in other Emirates, or whether the plates belong to a media-free zone.

 

2. Clear Outstanding Violations and Liabilities

 

The transfer service will be on hold unless the vehicle is fine-free and debt-free. You must:
- Pay all outstanding fines, including parking, red light, or speed violations
- Ensure toll fines, such as Salik, are fully settled
- Cancel or discharge any outstanding loans using an objection certificate
- Failing this, the ownership transfer request will not be processed.

 

3. Schedule and Complete the Vehicle Inspection

 

Next, book your vehicle inspection at an authorised RTA partner, such as Dubai Technology or Oilfields Supply Centre. The technical inspection helps confirm that the vehicle meets safety standards. This inspection applies to nearly all vehicles, new or second-hand.

 

4. Visit RTA or an Approved Center

 

Once documents and tests are ready, head to a Customer Happiness Center, RTA service desk, or partner centre. You may also start the ownership transfer process online via the UAE Pass. Both parties should be present unless there’s a legal power of attorney.

 

5. Pay Transfer Fees and Submit Requests

 

At the centre, hand in your documents and settle these fees:
- AED 350 for private car ownership transfer
- AED 20 innovation fee
- AED 400 if you need new number plates
- Additional fees may apply for changes in plate type

Once paid, the RTA will issue a new registration card in the buyer’s name within minutes.

 

6. Collect Plates and Registration Card

 

After approval, you’ll receive:
- New or existing number plates, decide carefully before applying
- A fresh vehicle registration card in the buyer’s name
- A printed receipt summarising the transfer
- And now the car is officially yours.

 

Common Scenarios You Should Know

 

Every transfer comes with details to watch for:
- Company transfers require trade licences, official letters, and authorised representative signatures
- Cars from another emirate, like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, must be transferred there first
- Diplomatic vehicles need a valid diplomatic card and a green plate
- Transfers from a media-free zone may involve extra approval letters
- Choosing new plates or personalised plates adds to the total payment fees
- Missing documents will delay approvals—always double-check

 

Why Preparation Matters

 

Doing a few things early makes the transfer smoother:
- Check for outstanding fines before visiting
- Confirm your vehicle inspection is recent
- Use the UAE Pass to complete the online parts of the transfer
- Double-check that your Emirates ID matches the details on all documents
- Ask about any additional costs, like new plates or personalised options
This minor effort saves repeated trips and long waits.

 

How BYD UAE Can Help

 

At BYD UAE, we help simplify the step-by-step process of transferring vehicle ownership, whether you're buying a new or pre-owned vehicle. Our after‑sales centres collaborate with partners such as Dubai Technology and Oilfields Supply Center for vehicle inspection and testing. We’ll guide you from paperwork to ownership transfer so the experience stays smooth and stress-free.

 

Owning a BYD? Here’s What to Expect

 

If you purchase a BYD car, we’ll hand over the vehicle registration card and proof of payment. We can also recommend our partner centres for your technical inspection and help you clear any outstanding fines.
That ensures your car ownership transfer stays on track, and you enjoy your new car with peace of mind.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Transferring car ownership in Dubai is a process, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. By preparing ahead, completing the vehicle inspection, arranging the required documents, and settling your fees, the transaction is straightforward. With the growing appeal of electric and green new energy vehicles, many first-time car owners may feel new to this. That’s perfectly natural, and BYD UAE is here to support you every step of the way.