How to Buy a Used Car in UAE : Essential Guide

Are you looking to buy a used car in the UAE? Luckily, the process for transferring car ownership is quick and straightforward. Many residents and expatriates have asked how to ensure the sale is official, so here’s everything you need to know!

Documents Required

It’s important to know from the start that both the buyer and seller will be required to present several legal documents throughout this process. Make sure you have all the following documents before you begin to transfer ownership:

• The buyer and the seller must present their original Emirates ID if they are residents.
• Diplomats may present their valid diplomatic card along with their traffic file number and a letter of approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• If the buyer’s residence visa is sponsored by the Oilfields Supply Centre, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required.
• Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya).
• Passport and Visa for both parties.
• Valid vehicle insurance certificate.
• Signed and notarized sale agreement.
• Technical inspection certificate of the vehicle.
• Adding or redeeming an electronic mortgage if the car is still financed.

Note: If you are a registered company looking to purchase a used car, additional documents will be required to gain legitimate ownership.

Completing the Application

Before completing the vehicle transfer application, ensure the vehicle is inspected by an official inspection center to verify it complies with safety and environmental norms. Additionally, clear all fines on the vehicle before sealing the deal.

For more information on the vehicle's history and to make informed decisions, visit Vehicle Report. Our platform provides comprehensive car valuation reports, vehicle history checks, and market insights to help you choose the right car confidently.

Submitting the Documents

At one of the approved vehicle registration centers (traffic department), fill out the required vehicle ownership transfer forms. The buyer and seller must both present themselves in person or send a legal representative. If all the documents are in order, the process should take about 10 minutes, and then all that’s left to do is pay. The ownership transfer fees should be paid by the buyer, but the seller should still be present.

Ownership Transfer Fees

The fees to legally transfer ownership vary depending on the vehicle in question. This information is available on various government websites and in person at the traffic department.

Once you have paid the necessary fees and received your receipt, the process is complete. You will receive an expiry sticker, your new vehicle ownership certificate, and new plate numbers if requested.

Note: If transferring car ownership between Emirates, additional steps may apply. You must deregister the vehicle, mark it for export, and ship it on a registered transport truck to avoid driving an unregistered vehicle.

Can You Transfer Vehicle Ownership Online?

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether it’s possible to complete the vehicle ownership transfer online. The answer is yes! The process is similar to the in-person method. You will log in, submit your request, receive a confirmation email, and finalize the process at the Diplomatic Corps Licensing Office at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). You can apply using the RTA, MOFA, and TAMM Abu Dhabi websites and the Dubai Drive app.

In short, transferring ownership of any vehicle in the UAE requires both the buyer and the seller to be well-informed and attentive to detail while collecting the required documents and completing the process. If you’re in the market to purchase a used vehicle, find out more about its history using our platform. We are here to help you make a wise decision when choosing the right car for you.

Additional Resource

For more information on vehicle history and to make informed decisions, visit Vehicle Report. Our platform provides comprehensive car valuation reports, vehicle history checks, and market insights to help you choose the right car confidently.