Do you have all the paperwork ready to buy a used car in Abu Dhabi?
Without the right documents, many buyers get stuck at the Roads and Transport Authority(RTA), wasting hours going back and forth.
This mistake costs you time and money.
Worse, it delays your car ownership by days or even weeks. Some buyers even lose their dream car to another buyer who came prepared.
Don't let this happen to you.
In this guide, you will find out exactly which documents you need. We cover papers for both buyers and sellers.
Follow these steps, and you'll drive away in your new car the same day.
Buying a used car means preparing several important documents. Let's start with the basics.
First, you need proof that you live in the UAE legally.
Bring your UAE Residency Visa in both original and copy form. The RTA won't transfer ownership without it.
Next, show your Emirates ID card.
Again, bring both the original and a copy. This confirms who you are and where you live.
Your passport is equally important. The original plus one clear copy will work. This proves your nationality and personal details.
Finally, you must have a valid UAE driving license. No license means no car registration. The RTA makes this rule very clear.
Sometimes, insurance companies or the RTA may request additional proof.
Keep recent utility bills or your tenancy contract handy. These documents aren't always required, but they prevent last-minute problems.
Beyond identity papers, you need technical certificates. It proves your car is safe and legal.
Is your car older than three years?
Then you must get it inspected first. Visit an authorized inspection center. They will check safety features and emissions.
The inspection report stays valid for only 30 days. Make sure it's current when you visit the RTA. Without this clean report, no transfer can happen.
Abu Dhabi law requires car insurance before registration.
You need at least third-party coverage. However, comprehensive insurance protects you better.
You can buy insurance online or through insurance firms.
The good news? Electronic policy documents work at the RTA. This speeds up your transfer process.
Are you financing your purchase through a bank? Then get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your lender.
This paper shows that the bank approves your loan. It also confirms they accept the car registration under your name.
Sellers have responsibilities, too.
Their documents are just as important for a smooth transfer. Here are the documents that the seller must provide
The Mulkiya is the most critical document.
This card contains the chassis number, engine number, and vehicle specifications. It must be valid and show the seller's correct details.
Always check that the Mulkiya matches the actual car.
Look at the chassis number carefully.
The seller needs their Emirates ID and passport.
Both originals and copies are required. These must match the name on the Mulkiya exactly.
A valid driving license proves that they legally own the vehicle. Don't skip checking this document.
Did the seller buy the car with a loan?
They must provide a Bank Loan Clearance Certificate. It proves they paid off the entire loan.
Without it, you might inherit their debt. The RTA will block the transfer until this clears.
Check for unpaid traffic fines or Salik toll charges.
Sellers should get an Outstanding Fines Clearance from the RTA or police portal. Bring this receipt when you meet.
Create a detailed Sale and Purchase Agreement where you can write down both names and Emirates ID numbers. Include the car make, model, and chassis number as well.
Add the sale price, mileage, and transfer date.
This contract isn't required by law. However, it protects both parties if problems arise later.
Several other factors affect your car purchase. Let's review them quickly.
The RTA charges AED 400 as a standard transfer fee.
Additional plate or service charges may apply. Make sure you prepare to pay through e-payment systems or at RTA service centers.
Can't attend the transfer in person? Get a notarized Power of Attorney.
This lets someone else handle the transfer for you. The document must be attested by a UAE notary public.
Buying from a dealership? They charge 5% VAT on the sale price.
Request a VAT Clearance Certificate from them. This confirms all taxes are paid.
Abu Dhabi now uses electronic vehicle records.
Check that your Digital Mulkiya is ready on the UAE's Digital Government Platform. This cuts paperwork and saves time.
Ask for a service history report.
While optional, it reveals past accidents and maintenance records.
Authorized dealerships or third-party providers offer these reports. They help you avoid cars with hidden damage.
Imported cars sometimes need extra certification.
They must meet GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council's safety and emissions requirements that vehicles must meet to be legally driven in the UAE and other Gulf countries.) emissions and safety rules.
Look at the Mulkiya for GCC compliance stickers. This affects your insurance rates, too.
Organize all documents before visiting the RTA. With complete paperwork, the transfer takes one to two hours. Use Smart Services kiosks for even faster processing.
Double-check everything before you go. Make sure IDs, visas, insurance, and inspection reports are valid.
One expired document means starting over.
