A Complete Guide to Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration and Renewal

Vehicle registration in Abu Dhabi requires owners to meet essential responsibilities especially regarding renewal and registration of their vehicles. The registration procedure became more accessible for residents through progressive changes leading to online and personal completion options.
The guide provides all essential information regarding Abu Dhabi vehicle registration alongside renewal protocols and internet-based services and basic requirements.
Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration

Why is Vehicle Registration Important?

Vehicle registration remains obligatory for all vehicles in Abu Dhabi because it ensures both roadway safety and environmental compliance. Vehicle registration exists as proof that demonstrates both ownership and compliance with all traffic regulations.
How to Register a Vehicle in Abu Dhabi
All new and used vehicle owners need to register their cars through the Abu Dhabi Police and Abu Dhabi Department of Transport. The process involves the following steps:
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Vehicle Inspection:
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New vehicles are usually exempt from inspection.
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Used vehicles require a technical inspection at an authorized testing center.
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Gather Required Documents:
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Emirates ID (original and copy)
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A valid UAE driving license
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Vehicle insurance (minimum of 12 months validity)
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Purchase invoice (for new vehicles) or sales agreement (for used vehicles)
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Customs clearance (for imported vehicles)
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Vehicle inspection certificate (if applicable)
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Pay Fees and Obtain Registration Card:
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Once the documents are submitted, pay the applicable registration fee (approximately AED 400 for light vehicles).
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Receive the Mulkiya (Vehicle Registration Card) and number plates.
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Receive Number Plate and Registration Sticker:
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If applicable, you will receive a license plate or renew your existing one with a new registration sticker.
Cost of the Car Inspection in Abu Dhabi

The cost of the inspection is AED 170 and it takes about 30 to 45 minutes on average. If the car fails once, you would have to get the problem resolved. All tests are charged individually, so it might be wise to eradicate all the issues before going for the test.
Where to Go for Car Inspection in Abu Dhabi?

Multiple locations in Abu Dhabi have car inspection facilities. Here’s a list of some of the areas where you will find car inspection centres.
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Al Dhafra
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Muroor
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Yas
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Musaffah
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Samha Rest Area (Sout-West)
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Baniyas South-West
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Mahawi
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Al Istiqlal
Process of vehicle licensing in Abu Dhabi has been simplified in recent years
Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration Renewal

When to Renew Your Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration
Vehicle registration in Abu Dhabi is typically valid for one year. Renewal must be completed before the expiry date to avoid fines or penalties.
How to submit an application for Car Registration Renewal in Abu Dhabi?
Once you have all the required documents, there are two ways you can submit them for vehicle registration renewal in Abu Dhabi. You can visit the registration center of the Abu Dhabi Police (Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters). Once the process is complete you will be given a new registration sticker. Place the new sticker on your rear number plate – directly on the old one.
Alternatively, vehicle registration renewal in Abu Dhabi can be done online. Visit the Abu Dhabi Police e-services portal. Select the tab for registration, enter all required details, submit documents and confirm your preferred delivery method. Within five working days, the process will be completed. Similarly, the MOI website and Emirates Vehicle Gate can also be used. The process would be the same.
Steps for Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration Renewal
The process for Abu Dhabi vehicle registration renewal is straightforward:
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Vehicle Testing (If Required):
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Vehicles older than three years must undergo a technical inspection at an authorized testing center.
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Obtain or Renew Insurance:
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Ensure your vehicle is covered by a valid insurance policy with at least 12 months of validity.
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Check and Pay Any Fines:
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Clear any outstanding traffic fines before proceeding with renewal. You can check fines through the Abu Dhabi Police website or app.
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Submit Documents and Pay Renewal Fees:
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Submit the required documents for Abu Dhabi vehicle registration online or in person and pay the renewal fee (typically AED 350-400 for light vehicles).
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Receive the Updated Registration Card:
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Once the renewal is complete, you will receive the updated vehicle registration card and a new registration sticker.
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Car Registration Renewal Fees In Abu Dhabi
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The car registration renewal fee is AED 350. Abu Dhabi vehicle registration online fee can be paid online or in-person, depending on the choice of the process you make.
Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration and Renewal Online
How to DO Vehicle Registration Renewal Abu Dhabi Online
The government of Abu Dhabi vehicle registration offers online services for citizens through different platforms like TAMM, Abu Dhabi Police website, and the Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG). Follow these steps:
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Log in to the TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police website/app.
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Select 'Vehicle Registration Renewal'.
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Enter your vehicle details.
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Upload the necessary documents (inspection report, insurance, Emirates ID, etc.).
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Settle any fines and pay the renewal fee online.
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Receive the renewed registration card digitally and get a sticker delivered.
Penalties for Late Abu Dhabi Vehicle Registration Renewal
Failure to renew your Abu Dhabi vehicle registration on time can result in penalties:
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AED 500 fine for expired registration.
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Black points on your driving record.
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Vehicle impoundment in severe cases.
To avoid fines, the Abu Dhabi government provides a 30-day grace period post-expiry for renewal.
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi provides easy registration and renewal procedures for vehicles through its online as well as offline channels. Check your vehicle registration expiration date regularly while maintaining valid insurance coverage and pay all traffic fines ahead of time for compliance purposes.
Online services make your vehicle registration renewal in Abu Dhabi faster with minimal effort and achieve continued legal status. Additional details about vehicle registration renewal Abu Dhabi can be found through TAMM website and Abu Dhabi Police app and the Emirates Vehicle Gate portal.