Vehicles
  1. Basic Rules for Vehicles
    • Driving regulations: The UAE has strict driving laws. Speeding, reckless driving, or running red lights can lead to hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, or imprisonment.
    • Driving under influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and can lead to severe penalties.
    • Child Safety: Child seats are required for children up to 4 years. The front seat passenger should also be at least 145 cm tall and not younger than 10 years old.
    • Vehicle Impoundment: Drivers caught using a phone or eating, drinking, smoking or any activity that takes your focus off the road (including applying makeup or using a phone) now face a 30-day vehicle impoundment. This is part of broader measures targeting reckless behaviors such as dangerous overtaking and failure to maintain safety.
    • Excessive horn use in the UAE can result in a fine and black points on your driving record. Use the horn only for safety.
    • Drivers and pedestrians must avoid gathering near accident scenes to prevent obstructing emergency vehicles and personnel. Violators can face a fine of AED 1,000.
    • Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving is prohibited.
    • Lane Discipline: Stay in your lane; sudden lane changes can result in fines.
    • Maintenance: Vehicles must be well-maintained and free of defects (e.g., worn-out tires, faulty brakes).
    • Emissions: Regular tests ensure vehicles meet emission standards.
    • Toll Gate: In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, toll gates charge fees for using certain roads. Vehicles must be registered for automatic toll deduction.
    • Accidents: Minor accidents can be reported using the RTA or Abu Dhabi Police app or Rafid app. For major accidents, call 999 for police assistance.
    • Car Modifications: Any modifications to vehicles require prior approval from the authorities.
    • Driving in the Desert: Special permits may be required for off-road driving in certain areas.
    • Car Wash: Enforcement is especially strict in urban areas, near landmarks, and in public spaces like malls, hotels, and tourist areas. If a car is left unwashed for a long time, especially in open parking lots, it may attract fines.
    • Washing cars in residential areas, parking lots, or public streets is not allowed. Like using hoses or buckets to clean cars in public spaces is considered a violation. Cars must be washed at authorized service stations, car washes or through licensed mobile car wash services.
    • Driving a Dirty Car is Punishable: It is illegal to drive excessively dirty cars in the UAE. Cars that are covered in dust, mud, or general filth, particularly if the license plate is obscured, are considered unsightly and can lead to fines.
    • Sandstorms or Natural Events: In case of sandstorms or bad weather, authorities may be more lenient. However, drivers are expected to clean their vehicles soon afterward.
  2. Process for selling Vehicle
    • Pay outstanding fines
    • Consider servicing or cleaning the car before taking it to the Vehicle testing Center.
    • Both buyer and seller must be present at the RTA center or approved typing centers.
    • Detach the Salik tag from the windshield of the car before handing it over to the buyer.
  3. Car tips: Some of the Fluids Your Car Needs to stay active and driving
    • Engine Oil
    • Transmission Fluid
    • Brake Fluid
    • Coolant
    • Windshield Wiper Fluid
    • Differential Fluid
  4. Key Points to Evaluate Before Buying a Used Car
    • Seller Type: Choose between private sellers for potentially lower prices or dealerships for greater buyer protection and certified vehicles.
    • Car Details: Review the car’s age, warranty status, and specifications to ensure they meet your requirements.
    • VIN/Chassis Number: Verify the vehicle identification number (VIN) to check the car’s history and authenticity. (https://evg.ae/_layouts/EVG/trafficaccidents.aspx?language=en)
    • Exterior Condition: Inspect the body for damages, rust, and original paint condition.
    • Interior Check: Ensure the interior is clean, functional, and free from significant wear or damage.
    • Mechanical Assessment: Look for signs of mechanical faults, engine issues, or unusual noises.
    • Airbags: Confirm the presence and proper function of airbags.
    • Mileage Verification: Check mileage in relation to the car’s age and condition.
    • Service Records: Review maintenance history and available service packages.
    • Test Drive: Evaluate the car’s performance, handling, and comfort during a comprehensive test drive.
    • Professional Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough mechanical check to identify hidden issues.
  5. Starting June 2, 2025, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) mandates online booking for vehicle inspections at all 27 testing centers in the city. This initiative aims to reduce wait times and enhance service efficiency. (This move is part of RTA’s efforts to streamline vehicle inspection processes and improve customer experience.)
    • Key Details:
      • Mandatory Booking: Vehicle owners must schedule appointments for services like Renewal Test, Registration Test, and Export with Number Plates Test via the RTA Dubai app or www.rta.ae.
      • Penalty for Walk-ins: Those arriving without a prior booking will incur a Dh100 fee.
      • Exemptions: Senior citizens, residents, and People of Determination are exempt from this booking requirement.
      • Trial Phase: The policy is currently in a trial phase at Tasjeel centers in Al Qusais and Al Barsha, with plans to assess and refine the system based on feedback.
      • In Dubai, new private vehicles are exempt from mandatory RTA vehicle inspections for the first three years after registration. Starting from the fourth year, annual inspections are required to renew the vehicle’s registration. However, if the vehicle changes ownership within the first three years, an inspection may be necessary at the time of transfer. 
  6. Dubai Vehicle Inspection: No Test Required for New Cars Under 3 Years Old
    • In Dubai, new private vehicles are exempt from mandatory RTA vehicle inspections for the first three years after registration. Starting from the fourth year, annual inspections are required to renew the vehicle’s registration. However, if the vehicle changes ownership within the first three years, an inspection may be necessary at the time of transfer. 
    • To avoid any issues or penalties, it’s advisable to check your vehicle’s registration date and consult the RTA Dubai app or website for the most current requirements. (Note: The above information was collected from official sources to help you understand the vehicle inspection requirements in Dubai. If there are any updates or changes, please email us.)

Note: The above information was collected from official sources to help you understand the new online booking requirement for vehicle tests in Dubai starting June 2, 2025. If there are any updates or changes, please email us.