Selling Your Wheels in Dubai? Master the Official RTA Transfer
April 25, 2025
Copy Link
Sources
10
Show Sources in Text
Selling your car in Dubai? Fantastic! But hold on, it's not quite as simple as finding a buyer and shaking hands. There's a crucial official process involved, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), to ensure the vehicle ownership is legally transferred 
[3]
[5]. Think of it as the official handover that protects both you and the buyer 
[9]
[2]
[6]. This involves finding your buyer, clearing any outstanding dues like loans or fines, potentially getting a vehicle inspection, gathering the right documents, and finally, completing the RTA transfer itself [9][2][3][5][6]. This guide will walk you through each step, based on the official procedures, making sure your sale goes smoothly and by the book.
Before the Handover: Essential Preparations
Before you even think about the final transfer, there are a couple of essential boxes to tick. First up: finances. If you have an outstanding car loan or mortgage on the vehicle, you absolutely must settle it completely with your bank before you can sell [9][6]. Once paid, the bank electronically informs the RTA, but you'll also need the mortgage release document as proof [3][5][6]. Similarly, any traffic fines linked to the car need to be cleared [9][2][3][5][6]. The good news is you can often check and pay these fines during the transfer process itself at an RTA centre [9][2].
Next, consider the vehicle's technical inspection, often called the Tasjeel test. This is mandatory if your car's registration (Mulkiya) has expired, or if the vehicle is generally older than three years [9][2][3][5][6]. Honestly, even if it's not strictly required for your car's age, getting a fresh inspection report done at an RTA-approved centre is a smart move [9]. It provides transparency for the buyer and can make the sale process smoother [9]. You can get this done at various RTA-approved centres like Tasjeel, Shamil, or Wasel [9][2][3][5].
Gathering Your Paperwork: Documents Needed for Seller & Buyer
The buyer needs a bit more: their original Emirates ID is essential [2][3][5][6]. If their visa isn't issued in Dubai, they might need to provide proof of Dubai residency, like an Ejari (tenancy contract) or visa copy [9]. Crucially, the buyer must have already arranged new vehicle insurance in their name, and you'll need the electronic insurance certificate for the transfer [2][3][5][6].
For the vehicle itself, you'll need the original Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya) [6]. You also need the passed Vehicle Technical Inspection Report (often a digital copy is fine) and the Loan Clearance Certificate if the car was previously under finance [2][6]. Depending on the situation, like if it's a company car, other documents like No Objection Certificates (NOCs) might be required [5].
The RTA Ownership Transfer: Step-by-Step Guide
Option 1: Online Transfer (RTA Website / Dubai Drive App)
For convenience, the online route via the RTA website or the Dubai Drive app is increasingly popular [9][2][3]
[8]. Here’s how it generally works: Both you and the buyer will likely need to log in using UAE Pass, a secure digital identity [9][2][3]. You'll navigate to the service, often called something like 'Change Vehicle Ownership' [9][2][3][8]. The seller typically enters the buyer's details, usually using their Emirates ID number [9][8].
The system then generates a digital Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) [9][2]. Both the seller and buyer need to digitally sign this agreement, often verified through an SMS code or via the UAE Pass app [9][2][3][8]. The buyer usually handles paying the necessary transfer fees online through the platform [9][3]. A key point for the seller: after the online transfer is initiated, you usually have about 14 days to return the old license plates to an RTA centre [9][2]. The buyer then completes their side of the registration, potentially choosing new plates or arranging to keep the existing number if that's been agreed upon and processed separately [9][2]
[7].
Option 2: In-Person Transfer (RTA Customer Happiness Centres / Approved Centres)
The traditional method involves visiting an RTA Customer Happiness Centre or an approved Vehicle Registration and Inspection Centre (like Tasjeel) [3][5]. Both the buyer and the seller, or their legally appointed representatives, must be present [3][5]. You'll submit all the required documents gathered earlier – though sometimes they might provide a link to upload these digitally even at the centre [3][5][6].
At the centre, any outstanding fines can be paid, along with the transfer fees [3][5][6]. As the seller, this is where you'll surrender the vehicle's license plates [3]. Once everything is processed and paid, the buyer receives the new Mulkiya (registration card) in their name and, if applicable, new license plates [5][6]. This method provides immediate completion but requires coordinating a visit for both parties.
Understanding the Costs: Transfer Fees Explained
If you go the online route, there might be a specific fee for the digital Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), which could be higher, potentially around AED 400-450 plus small knowledge/innovation fees [9][8]. If the buyer needs new license plates, there will be additional fees for those, ranging widely from Dh35 to Dh500 depending on the size and type chosen [2]. Finally, there are usually small mandatory Knowledge and Innovation fees, typically around Dh20, added to the transaction [9][2][8]. Always check the latest RTA fee structure as amounts can change.
Final Steps: License Plates and Salik Tag
Once the transfer is done, there are just a couple of loose ends. First, the license plates. As the seller, you are responsible for surrendering the old plates [3]. If you completed the transfer in person, you'll do this at the centre [3]. If you did it online, you need to return them within the specified timeframe (usually 14 days) [9][2]. What if you love your plate number? You might have the option to retain it, either to transfer to another car you own or keep it reserved, but this involves a separate RTA process and additional fees [9][2][7].
Now, something crucial: the Salik tag! Before you physically hand over the car keys, make absolutely sure you remove your Salik tag (the toll tag) from the windshield [9]. Why? Because if you don't, any tolls the new owner incurs driving through Salik gates will be charged to your account [9]. The buyer is responsible for purchasing and registering their own new Salik tag for the vehicle once it's in their name [9]. Don't forget this step – it saves potential headaches later!
Finding Your Buyer: Using Online Marketplaces
Okay, before any transfer happens, you need a buyer! Where do you find one in Dubai? Online marketplaces are incredibly popular and effective [9]. Platforms like Dubizzle (a huge classifieds site with a massive car section) 
[4], YallaMotor (a dedicated car portal) 
[1], DubiCars (another specialist site) 
[10], and CarPoint.ae are common places to list your vehicle [9]. You might also see cars advertised on social media groups, but remember, the actual sale must go through the official RTA transfer process [9]. Don't forget traditional dealerships either; many buy used cars directly or offer trade-in options against a newer vehicle.
To make your listing stand out, invest time in good photos from multiple angles. Write a detailed description covering the make, model, year, mileage, key specifications, and honest condition notes [9]. Be clear about your asking price. Being responsive to inquiries from potential buyers is also key to moving towards that final RTA transfer step.
Important Rules to Remember When Selling
Just a couple of quick but important rules to keep in mind while selling your car in Dubai. Firstly, resist the urge to put a "For Sale" sign or sticker directly on the car itself [9]. This is actually prohibited and could lead to your vehicle being impounded by authorities [9]. Advertise online or through other permitted channels instead.
Secondly, while you want your car looking its best for potential buyers, remember that washing cars on the street or in public parking areas is illegal in Dubai and can result in fines [9]. Use designated car washes to keep it clean during the selling process. Following these simple rules avoids unnecessary trouble.
Try It for Free