Car Registration Transfer from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
In the UAE, vehicle registration (Mulkiya) is tied to the emirate where it's issued. Driving a car registered in Abu Dhabi on Dubai roads is fine short term, but for long stays, you must transfer it to avoid fines up to AED 1,000. Plus, it offers access to local services like parking and tolls.
Key benefits:
- Legal compliance with RTA Dubai rules.
- Easier insurance renewals and inspections.
- No more cross-emirate fines for Salik or E11 tolls.
Required Documents for Car Transfer
Gather these before starting:.
Document Type |
Details |
Who Needs It |
|
Emirates ID |
Valid copy for buyer and seller (or passport/visa for non-residents) |
Both parties |
|
Vehicle Ownership Certificate (Mulkiya) |
Current Abu Dhabi registration |
Seller |
|
Insurance Policy |
At least 13 months valid comprehensive cover |
Buyer (new policy for Dubai) |
|
Technical Inspection Report |
Valid vehicle test (3 months max, from ADCPD or RTA centre) |
Both (can do in either emirate) |
|
No Objection Certificate (NOC) |
From bank if vehicle is financed |
Seller |
|
Proof of Fines Clearance |
Receipt from Abu Dhabi Police/TAMM app |
Seller |
|
Sale Agreement |
Signed by both (generated online) |
Both |
|
For Companies |
Trade license, authorisation letter |
If applicable |
Step-by-Step Process to Transfer Registration
Follow these steps for a smooth transfer:
Step |
Action |
Where/How |
Time |
|
1. Clear Fines |
Pay all traffic fines and tolls (Salik/E11) via Abu Dhabi Police app or TAMM. |
Online via app or website |
10 mins |
|
2. Get Vehicle Inspection |
Book a technical test at an ADCPD centre in Abu Dhabi (or RTA in Dubai later). Cost: AED 170. |
ADCPD centres or online booking |
30 mins |
|
3. Transfer Ownership in Abu Dhabi |
Log into TAMM app with UAE Pass. Submit docs, sign agreement, pay fee. Get a transfer certificate. |
TAMM portal or service centre |
Instant online |
|
4. Cancel Abu Dhabi Registration |
Apply for cancellation/possession certificate via TAMM. Return plates if needed. |
TAMM app |
5 mins |
|
5. Transport Vehicle |
Tow or drive to Dubai (get temporary permit if driving). |
Use recovery service (AED 200-300) |
1-2 hours |
|
6. Buy Dubai Insurance |
Get new comprehensive policy (13 months min). |
Insurers like Shory or online |
15 mins |
|
7. Register in Dubai |
Visit RTA centre. Upload docs, pay fees, get new plates if needed. |
RTA app, website, or centres (Deira/Al Barsha) |
30 mins |
|
8. Finalise |
Collect new Mulkiya and plates. Update in apps like MOI. |
RTA centre |
Instant |
Fees Breakdown
Fees are affordable and fixed for light vehicles:
Fee Type |
Amount (AED) |
Notes |
|
Abu Dhabi Ownership Transfer |
350 |
Light vehicles; +20 K&I fee |
|
Vehicle Inspection (Test) |
170 |
One-time, valid 3 months |
|
Abu Dhabi Cancellation Certificate |
100 |
If plates returned |
|
Dubai Ownership Transfer |
350 |
Light vehicles; +20 K&I fee |
|
New Plates (Standard) |
35-50 |
Short/long; optional if keeping old |
|
Transport/Towing |
200-300 |
Optional, if not driving |
|
New Insurance |
800-1,500 |
Varies by car model |
|
Total Estimated |
700-900 |
Excludes insurance; no VAT on fees |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping fines check: Use the unified fines app to scan all emirates.
- Expired inspection: Renew the test if over 3 months old.
- No insurance: Dubai requires 13 months of cover upfront.
- Delaying: Finish within 14 days to avoid restarting.
- Forgetting E11 tag: Transfer or buy a new one for AED 100.
FAQs
How long does it take to transfer car registration from Abu Dhabi to Dubai?
It takes 1-2 days if all the docs are ready. Online steps are instant, but visits to centres add time.
Can I drive my Abu Dhabi-registered car in Dubai after the transfer?
No, after cancelling in Abu Dhabi, tow it to the Dubai registration. Temporary permits cost extra.
What if my car is under finance during transfer?
Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your bank first. It takes 1-3 days.
Is there a grace period for registration after moving?
No strict grace, but fines start after 30 days. Transfer ASAP to stay legal.
Can I transfer online completely?
Mostly yes, ownership in TAMM, registration in RTA app. But inspection needs a centre visit.
