UAE Number Plates Explained: How To Get A Dubai Number Plate

Vehicle number plates in the UAE are more than just a way to identify cars. They show the type of vehicle, who owns it, and sometimes even the wealth and status of the driver. Each of the seven emirates has its own number plate style and code system, but many rules and types are the same across the country.

UAE number plates use different colours to show the type and use of the vehicle. Here’s what each colour means:

Used for private vehicles. This is the most common type seen on the road.

Issued to commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks, taxis, and company-owned vans.

Used for rental cars. Car rental companies own these and lease them to drivers for short or long periods.

Given to vehicles with temporary registration. This includes brand-new cars or vehicles being transferred between owners.

Assigned to government vehicles or cars owned by diplomatic missions. These have special permissions and may include embassy codes.

Rare and reserved for royalty or VIPs. These plates are usually custom-made and reflect status or heritage.

These are unique plates that usually have fewer digits (like 1, 10, or 999). These are often bought by collectors or wealthy individuals and are seen as a symbol of luxury.

The price of a number plate depends on its type, design, and the number combination. Here’s a breakdown:

Whether you’re buying a new car or bringing a used one to Dubai, here’s how to get it registered:

Follow this full car registration guide for Dubai.
Registering a classic car? Here’s how to do it in the UAE.
Need to renew your registration? Here’s a full guide.

Each emirate has a unique plate format. These formats usually include letters, numbers, or both.

Special number plates in the UAE are known for their simplicity, style, and status. The fewer the digits, the more valuable the plate.

You can buy and sell number plates through:

When selling, you must transfer the plate ownership through the RTA or local transport authority. Lost your plate? Follow this guide to get a replacement.

Most plates include:

Some custom plates also allow for coloured backgrounds, font changes, or symbols.

UAE number plates are more than just vehicle tags. They tell a story about the car, the driver, and sometimes even about wealth or rank. Whether you’re getting a simple plate for a family car or bidding on a plate worth millions, it helps to understand how the system works. Want a plate that stands out? Or just need help with registration? Now you know exactly what to do.

Yes, in the UAE, you can purchase and own a number plate without assigning it to a vehicle. Once acquired, the plate is registered under your name, and there are no recurring fees to retain ownership without vehicle registration.

To report a lost car plate, file a Lost Item Certificate through the Dubai Police app or website. Provide your Emirates ID, vehicle details, and the circumstances of the loss. The fee is AED 70.

Prices depend on digit count, unique combinations, popularity, and letter codes. Fewer digits or repeating numbers make plates rarer and more expensive, especially if sold through RTA auctions or private sellers.

You can buy them via RTA auctions, directly through RTA centres, or online platforms. You’ll need a valid traffic file in Dubai and must pay the required fees.

Yes. Visit the RTA with valid ID. Pay the transfer fee. Ensure the plate has no fines. You can transfer it to another person or your own vehicle.

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