All About Owning A Car In The UAE

Thinking about owning a car in the UAE? Whether you’re new to the country or just considering an upgrade to your current ride, navigating the world of car ownership in the UAE can seem overwhelming at first. But here’s the short answer: owning a car in the UAE is a straightforward process once you understand the legal requirements, costs, and best practices. From getting your license to finding a car that suits your budget, GI Movers UAE has provided everything you need to know to make the journey smoother.

Licenses and Paperwork: What You Need to Drive Legally

Before anything else, having a valid driver’s license is essential if you plan on owning a car in the UAE. The requirements are clear and structured to maintain safety on the roads. If you’re a UAE resident or citizen, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a driving license. Expats above 21 receive a license with five years of validity, while GCC nationals and UAE citizens get ten years. Drivers under 21 must renew yearly until they turn 21.

Already have a license from your home country? Good news—if it’s from one of 36 approved countries (like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia), you won’t need additional training. However, if your license is two to three years old but not from an approved country, you’ll need to attend at least 30 driving classes. For those without a valid license, 40 classes are required.

Additionally, the UAE is committed to inclusivity and offers dedicated driving facilities for people of determination. Specialized driving schools, such as Emirates Driving Institute in Dubai, provide adapted vehicles, trained instructors, and personalized learning paths to support disabled individuals in obtaining their driving license. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) also offers priority appointment scheduling and tailored assessments to ensure safe and independent mobility for all. This way, living in Dubai with disabilities won’t be a problem.

Required Documents to Apply for a Driving License

Here’s the list of docs to obtain:

1. Passport and copy
2. Valid Dubai residence visa
3. One passport-sized photograph
4. NOC (No Objection Certificate) from your sponsor or employer
5. Eye test from a certified optician
6. Completed the driver’s application form

How to Renew Your UAE Driving License Smoothly

When your license is nearing expiration, it’s time to renew it. The process is quick and can be completed online, via the RTA mobile app, or at any RTA service center. First, you’ll need to take an eye test at a registered optician. Once the eye test is done, submit your documents and pay the fees. You’ll receive a temporary license on the spot, and the original will be ready within 3–4 business days. Requirements for renewal:

1. Original driving license
2. Emirates ID
3. Valid visa page (passport copy)
4. Eye test results
5. AED 110 for renewal, AED 20 for courier delivery

Thinking of Traveling? Here’s How to Get an International Driving License

If you plan on driving abroad, applying for an international license is a smart move. It’s especially useful for frequent travelers and business professionals. The international driving license in the UAE is valid for one year and cannot be renewed—you must reapply after it expires. You’ll need:

• Application form
• Passport copy
• Original UAE driving license and a copy
• AED fee

Parking in the UAE: What to Know Before You Drive Out

Parking is an essential aspect of having a car in the UAE. In urban areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, paid parking zones are widespread. Timings and fees vary depending on location and emirate, but most paid zones operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (with a break during midday in some areas). Payments can be made via SMS, parking machines, or mobile apps. Many residential buildings offer dedicated parking, but always confirm before signing a lease. Fines for illegal parking are steep, so it’s best to play by the rules. In some cities, smart parking systems help drivers find available spots in real time.

Buying a Car in the UAE: A Guide for Expats

Buying a car in the UAE is relatively easy but involves several administrative steps. Expats must have the correct documents ready before making a purchase. Documents needed:

• Residency Visa
• Emirates ID
• Valid UAE Driving License

Once you’ve chosen a vehicle, you must get it inspected, clear any outstanding fines, and have insurance in place. The transfer of ownership happens at the RTA or Abu Dhabi Police vehicle registration center and involves a small fee. Make sure everything is completed legally to avoid delays or fines and enjoy expat life in Dubai without any bureaucratic issues.

Top Cars for Expats: Affordable, Reliable, and Stylish

If you’re an expat considering owning a car in the UAE, it helps to know which models are popular and practical. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury, here are the top picks, according to the Dubizzle cars blog:

1. Toyota Yaris (AED 55,000 – AED 70,000): Compact, fuel-efficient, and perfect for city driving.
2. Nissan Sunny (AED 50,000 – AED 60,000): Spacious and budget-friendly, ideal for everyday use.
3. Hyundai Accent (AED 50,000 – AED 65,000): Stylish and safe, with excellent fuel economy.
4. Mitsubishi Attrage (AED 40,000 – AED 55,000): Reliable and low on running costs.
5. BMW 1 Series (AED 115,000 – AED 135,000): Compact luxury with great performance.
6. Audi A3 (AED 100,000 – AED 130,000): Sleek, tech-packed, and refined.
7. Mercedes-Benz A-Class (AED 135,000 – AED 160,000): High-end safety and luxury in a compact form.

For those looking for value and reliability, the UAE market offers plenty of choices—often at better prices than in other countries due to market saturation and low import taxes. With these cars, navigating Abu Dhabi’s traffic will be a breeze.

Registering Your Car: A Quick Overview

After purchasing a car, you’ll need to register it. Fortunately, registering a vehicle in the UAE is efficient and largely digitized. Steps to register a vehicle:

• Submit your documents: Emirates ID, insurance, and inspection report
• Pay the annual registration fee
• Receive your registration card and license plates
• Securely attach the plates to your car

This process typically takes less than a day and is required annually. Driving without a valid registration can result in heavy penalties, so make sure it’s up to date.

Is renting a better option for you? If you’re not ready for full ownership, renting a car in the UAE is a flexible alternative. Many expats, especially those on short-term contracts or tourism visas, choose to rent. Monthly and long-term leasing options are available, which include maintenance and insurance. It’s a hassle-free solution with minimal paperwork.

The Reality of Having a Car in the UAE

Let’s not forget—having a car in the UAE comes with more than just the freedom of mobility. Fuel is relatively cheap, roads are well-maintained, and navigation is easy with apps like Waze and Google Maps. However, consider additional costs such as tolls (Salik in Dubai), insurance, maintenance, and parking fees, in order to navigate Dubai’s traffic efficiently. Public transport is reliable in major cities, but for those living in suburban or rural areas, a car is practically a necessity. Having a car in the UAE means independence, convenience, and access to places public transit doesn’t reach.

Unexpected Expenses Of Owning A Car in The UAE

When it comes to owning a car in the UAE, many people focus only on the upfront price tag, but the real costs start to add up after the purchase. First, there’s the initial purchase itself, which can vary widely depending on whether you’re buying new or used, and even more so if you’re eyeing a luxury brand. But that’s just the beginning.

Ongoing maintenance is a major factor to consider. For example, an oil change alone can cost anywhere from AED 300 to AED 800, depending on your car type and the service provider. Add to that the cost of filters, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements, especially important in the UAE’s hot climate, where heat can wear out components faster than you’d expect. Regular check-ups every six months are strongly recommended and can help avoid bigger issues down the road.

Fuel is another ongoing cost. As of May 2025, prices per liter are AED 2.47 for Special 95, AED 2.58 for Super 98, and AED 2.52 for diesel. These costs add up quickly if you drive long distances or have a vehicle with poor fuel efficiency.

Insurance is mandatory and can range from AED 2,500 to AED 5,000 per year for comprehensive coverage. The newer the car, the higher the premium, plus higher deductibles might lower monthly costs, but could hit you hard during an accident.

And don’t forget emergency repairs. A flat tire or sudden electrical issue could cost hundreds. That’s why many smart car owners in the UAE set aside at least AED 200 monthly as a repair fund. It’s a small buffer that can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.

A Quick Guide to Relocating a Car to the UAE

Thinking about bringing your car with you to the UAE? It’s definitely doable, but there are a few steps you’ll need to follow. First things first—make sure your car isn’t older than 10 years, as most vehicles above that age aren’t allowed in unless they qualify as classics. You’ll also need to gather some paperwork, including your passport, visa, car registration, original invoice, and export certificate.

Once your vehicle lands in the UAE, it will go through customs. Expect to pay around 5% of the car’s value as import duty, but check this with customs. After that, your car will need to pass a roadworthiness test, get insured with a local provider, and finally, be registered with the RTA or your local emirate’s traffic department.

Important tip: Only left-hand drive cars are allowed, so double-check before shipping. While the process of importing a car may seem long, it’s pretty straightforward once you know what to expect.

To make the process easier and stress-free, many expats choose to hire professional car movers. Namely, professional moving companies handle shipping, paperwork, and customs procedures—saving you time, avoiding mistakes, and ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and legally. Opt for international movers in Abu Dhabi or dubai and ensure a safe relocation.

Need to Store Your Car in the UAE?

If you’re planning to leave the UAE for an extended period or simply need to free up parking space, storing your car is a convenient and secure solution. Many storage facilities across the cities, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, offer climate-controlled units and 24/7 surveillance, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and in top condition. Storage in Abu Dhabi is ideal for expats going on vacation or residents who own multiple vehicles and need long-term storage.

Dubai also offers a range of car storage solutions tailored to both short- and long-term needs. From basic outdoor parking lots with security to high-end indoor storage units with full maintenance services, there’s something for every budget. Storing your car in Dubai can help protect it from extreme heat, dust, and potential damage, especially during the summer months when vehicles are often unused for weeks at a time. So, choose self storage in Dubai, but check the rules and regulations of storing a car.

Final Thoughts: Why Owning a Car in the UAE Makes Sense

Whether you’re relocating permanently or living in the UAE temporarily, owning a car in the UAE gives you unparalleled freedom. With clear licensing rules, affordable vehicle options, and a well-maintained infrastructure, the process is streamlined and user-friendly. Just remember to keep your documents up to date, follow the legal steps, and drive safely. In short, owning a car in the UAE can be a rewarding and smart decision, especially if you know what to expect.

References:

The Unseen Expenses of Owning a Car in the UAE: What You Need to Know. (2024, November 25). Scrap My Car UAE. https://www.scrapmycaruae.com/post/the-unseen-expenses-of-owning-a-car-in-the-uae-what-you-need-to-know

Fuel Prices. Ipt-Energy.com. https://www.ipt-energy.com/uae/fuel-prices

All about Owning a car in Dubai | Process, Licence & More | dubizzle. (2021, August 23). UAE’s Leading Autos Blog | Dubizzle Cars. https://www.dubizzle.com/blog/cars/all-about-owning-car-dubai/