How to Buy a Used Car in the UAE: Registration, Transfer and Costs

The UAE process at a glance

Buying a used car in the UAE is fast when you know the steps: agree the deal, clear any loan on the car, pass the technical inspection, buy insurance, then transfer ownership at an RTA centre (or through the RTA app in Dubai). The whole thing can be done in one day.

• 1. Agree price and check the car (see our inspection checklist guide).
• 2. Verify there is no outstanding bank loan or mortgage on the vehicle — the seller needs a clearance letter from their bank if there was a loan.
• 3. The car must pass the RTA technical inspection (required for transfer; valid for a limited period).
• 4. Buy insurance in your name — you cannot transfer ownership without an active policy.
• 5. Both parties visit an RTA customer centre / authorised centre with Emirates IDs; the transfer, new plates (if needed) and registration card (Mulkiya) are issued on the spot.

Realistic costs to budget (besides the car price)

• RTA ownership transfer fee: roughly AED 350–400 depending on vehicle type and emirate.
• Technical inspection: around AED 120–170.
• New plates if required: AED 35–400 depending on plate type.
• Insurance: from about AED 700/year for basic third-party on older cars to several thousand for comprehensive cover on newer ones.
• Salik: existing Salik tag stays with the account; set up your own account and check for outstanding tolls and fines before transfer.

Mistakes to avoid

On Raftaar247, every listing shows the seller's recorded vehicle history where available, and our Safe Deal page gives you a written sale agreement template so both sides are protected.

• Never pay the full amount before the ownership transfer — pay at the RTA counter or use a documented Safe Deal process.
• Check for outstanding traffic fines; they must be cleared before transfer and can be thousands of dirhams.
• Confirm the car is GCC-spec if that matters to you — imported (US/Japan) cars are cheaper but can have hidden history and harder resale.
• If the car was a rental or taxi, expect harder use; check the registration history carefully.