How to Transfer Car Ownership in Abu Dhabi – A Beginner’s Guide

If you’re planning to buy or sell a car in Abu Dhabi, transferring car ownership is a must-do step. This legal process ensures that the new owner is officially responsible for the vehicle. While it might seem confusing at first, the steps are simple once you know what to do.

To transfer car ownership in Abu Dhabi, both the buyer and seller must visit an approved center, provide the needed documents, pay the transfer fee, and complete the official registration under the new owner’s name. The process is quick and often done within a day.

Documents Needed for Car Ownership Transfer

Before you start the process, make sure you have all the required documents. Missing papers can delay the transfer.

Here’s what you need:

For the seller:

• Original Emirates ID
• Original car registration card (Mulkiya)
• Valid vehicle insurance
• Vehicle technical inspection certificate (if required)
• Car loan clearance (if the car was financed)

For the buyer:

• Original Emirates ID
• UAE driving license
• Valid insurance under the buyer’s name

Tip: If the car has a loan, it must be cleared before the transfer can happen.

Where to Transfer Ownership in Abu Dhabi

You can visit any RTA-approved vehicle registration center to do the transfer. Some popular locations include:

• RTA Customer Happiness Centers
• Tasjeel Centers
• Wasel Vehicle Testing Centers
• Shamil Centers

These centers are open six days a week, usually from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Step-by-Step Procedure To Transfer Car Ownership in Abu Dhabi

Here are the easy steps to the procedure to transfer car ownership in Abu Dhabi:

Step 1: Vehicle Inspection

If the car is over three years old or due for registration renewal, it must pass a technical inspection. This test checks for safety and mechanical issues.

• Visit a Tasjeel or approved testing center.
• Pay the inspection fee (around AED 170).
• Get a passed certificate.

If the car fails the test, fix the issues and return for re-inspection.

Step 2: Pay Outstanding Fines

Before transferring ownership, all pending traffic fines linked to the car must be paid.

• Check fines online at the RTA website or the Abu Dhabi Police app.
• Pay through the site or at a registration center.

The transfer will be blocked if fines are not cleared.

Step 3: Insurance Transfer or New Policy

The car must have a valid insurance policy under the buyer’s name. You can:

• Transfer the seller’s insurance (if the company allows it).
• Or get a new policy for the buyer.

Many insurance companies offer same-day coverage for ownership transfer.

Step 4: Visit the Registration Center Together

Both the buyer and seller must visit the center in person with all required documents. There, you will:

• Submit documents to the clerk.
• Verify identity and car information.
• Pay the transfer and registration fees (around AED 350–AED 400).

In most cases, the transfer is done in less than 30 minutes.

Step 5: Receive the New Registration Card

Once the transfer is complete, the new owner will receive a new vehicle registration card (Mulkiya) under their name.

The old Mulkiya from the seller is canceled, and the buyer now becomes the legal owner of the vehicle. Keep the new Mulkiya in the car at all times, as it’s required by law.

Step 6: Remove the Salik Tag (Optional)

If the seller had a Salik tag on the car (used for tolls), it should be removed or updated.

• The seller can remove the tag or update it on the Salik app or website.
• Buyers should buy a new Salik tag and register it under their account. Salik is not automatically transferred with car ownership.

Step 7: Inform Third Parties

Once the transfer is done:

• The seller should inform their insurance provider and bank (if a loan existed).
• The buyer should update the records with their insurance company.

This avoids issues like future fines or claims under the wrong name.

Conclusion

Transferring car ownership in Abu Dhabi is easier than many people think. All you need is the right paperwork, a valid insurance policy, and a quick trip to a registration center. Make sure the car passes inspection, all fines are paid, and both parties are present. Once complete, the new owner gets the registration card and full legal control of the car.

Now that you know how to transfer car ownership in Abu Dhabi, you can complete the process quickly and confidently.

Need help with your car registration or paperwork? Visit Exotic Auto Services today, we’re here to make car services simple!