Understanding the Process of Transferring Car Ownership in the UAE

Introduction

Are you planning to sell your car in the UAE? Transferring car ownership to a new buyer may seem like a daunting task, but it isn’t. The government has designed a straightforward process for car ownership transfer in Dubai. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the essential information about transferring car ownership in the UAE.

Acquiring a new car is an exciting milestone, especially if it’s the vehicle you’ve been dreaming of for a long time. Once you make the purchase, you will want to get everything sorted out quickly so you can hit the road. Thankfully, the UAE has streamlined the paperwork involved in buying a car, making the process of transferring car ownership hassle-free.

The Process of Car Ownership and Transfer in the UAE

To ensure a smooth transfer of car ownership in the UAE, it’s crucial to understand and follow the rules and regulations and provide the necessary documentation. Whether the car is registered under an individual’s name or a company’s name, there are rules in the process.

How Car Ownership Transfer in Dubai and the UAE Works

If you are an individual selling your car, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Sellers need to provide their original Emirates ID. Alternatively, they can submit a decree issued from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) along with their passport.
2. Buyers who are UAE or GCC citizens should present their original Emirates ID.
3. Diplomats need to provide their valid diplomatic card, traffic file number, and a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if transferring to the consulate’s name.
4. If the car is still under mortgage, an official notice for adding or redeeming the electronic mortgage at the bank is required.
5. A vehicle’s technical inspection certificate is necessary.
6. If the seller wishes to keep the plate numbers, they should be surrendered to the center.
7. In case of a lost plate, a police report must be obtained.
8. Electronic insurance for the car is mandatory.

For companies selling cars, the following documents are required:

1. An official letter in Arabic.
2. A copy of the trade license.
3. Memorandum of Association for Limited Liability Companies (LLCs).
4. An endorsement of the signature and an authorization letter.
5. If the car is still under mortgage, the process for adding or redeeming the electronic mortgage at the bank must be completed.
6. A technical inspection certificate is necessary.
7. In some cases, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities such as Jebel Ali Free Zone or Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone is required.
8. If the seller wishes to keep the plate numbers, they should be surrendered to the center.
9. In case of a lost plate, a police report must be obtained.

Now, note that you will have to surrender some fees.

What are the car ownership transfer fees in UAE?

The fee for car ownership transfer in the UAE can differ from vehicle to vehicle. To make things easier, here is the breakdown: 

1. Light vehicle private/public: AED 350

Public vehicles: 

1. Public vehicles between 3 and 12 tonnes: AED 650
2. Public vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes: AED 1,000
3. Public light mechanical equipment: AED 700
4. Public heavy mechanical equipment: AED 1,000

Private vehicles: 

1. Private vehicles exceeding 12 tonnes: AED 800
2. Private vehicles between 3 and 12 tonnes: AED 400
3. Private light mechanical equipment: AED 500
4. Private heavy mechanical equipment: AED 800

Others: 

1. Trailer and semi-trailer: AED 120
2. Bus with 14 to 26 passengers: AED 300
3. Bus with more than 26 passengers: AED 600
4. Motorcycle: AED 200

Vehicle Plate Fees

Additionally, there are service fees for vehicle plates. These fees may vary based on the size and type of the plate. Here is a breakdown of the plate fees:

1. Short plate fee: AED 35
2. Long plate fee: AED 50
3. Luxury plates fee: AED 500
4. Dubai branded plates fee: AED 200
5. Expiry sticker fee: AED 10
6. Knowledge and Innovation fee: AED 20

Documents to Submit for Car Ownership Transfer in Dubai

To begin the process of transferring car ownership, you need to submit the required documents at Customer Happiness Centres or Tasjeel Service Centres. If the documents are accurate and complete, the process typically takes around 10 minutes. After verification, the following items will be handed over to the applicant:

1. Expiry sticker
2. If there is a number change, they get new plates
3. Vehicle ownership certificate

Alternatively, you can also apply for a car ownership transfer via the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website or the Dubai Drive app. Now that we have understood the basic details, let’s look at some FAQs for further understanding.

FAQs

Q. How to transfer car ownership between Emirates?

A. If you’re transferring car ownership to Dubai from another emirate, you need to follow specific requirements:

1. Deregister the car in its registered city and mark it for export.
2. Securely transport the unregistered car using a recovery truck, ensuring compliance with regulations that prohibit driving without number plates.

Q. What else to keep in mind?

A. In the car trading process, there are a few additional factors to consider:

1. Both the buyer and seller must be present during the transfer process. If either party is unavailable, an authorized legal representative can appear instead, provided they have a power of attorney in their name.
2. The seller must clear all pending traffic fines before the transfer can be completed.
3. The application must include registration, possession, export, or transfer services.
4. Transferring car ownership after the owner’s death involves a slightly longer process. A representative must appear in the Dubai court, obtain an issued letter, and present it along with a death certificate at the service center.

Conclusion

Owning a car in Dubai is an exciting journey, and at Sun City Motors, we are here to make it even more special. We pride ourselves on providing a wide range of meticulously inspected, high-quality used cars in Dubai, making us your go-to destination for buying or selling your car. As a premier used luxury car dealer, we understand that a seamless car ownership transfer is the start of a delightful journey. Our transparent and reliable services extend beyond the purchase, as we assist you with the necessary paperwork for the transfer of car ownership.

From choosing the perfect car to completing the car ownership transfer seamlessly, we are committed to making your car buying or selling experience exceptional. Explore our wide range of premium pre-owned vehicles and let our team assist you every step of the way.  From sports cars to SUVs, we have an extensive range of top-quality used vehicles from renowned brands. Our transparent and reliable services make us the preferred choice for car enthusiasts across the UAE. Discover the finest selection of used cars in Dubai exclusively at Sun City Motors. To learn more, follow Sun City Motors, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube!

• August 21, 2023