UAE Car Registration Renewal Guide 2026
Every vehicle in the UAE must have a valid registration (Mulkiya) to be driven legally on public roads. Registration renewal is an annual process managed through each emirate vehicle licensing authority. This guide covers the renewal process, requirements, and costs for all UAE emirates in 2026.
What You Need to Renew Your Registration
The standard requirements for UAE vehicle registration renewal are a valid Emirates ID for the registered owner, a valid UAE vehicle insurance certificate for the current registration year, a passed RTA Tasjeel vehicle fitness inspection (for vehicles 3 years old or older in Dubai, or 5 years old or older in most other emirates), and payment of the registration fees. In Dubai, the Salik tag on the vehicle must also be active and the account must not be blocked due to negative balance.
Vehicle Fitness Test Requirements
The Tasjeel vehicle fitness test in Dubai and equivalent tests in other emirates inspect brakes, lights, tyres, steering, emissions, and body condition. Vehicles that fail the inspection receive a report listing defects that must be corrected before re-inspection. Common fail items include worn brake pads, misaligned headlights, illegal window tinting, bald tyres, and non-functioning lights. The inspection fee is AED 120 to AED 150 per test depending on the testing centre.
Registration Fees by Emirate
Dubai registration fees are calculated based on vehicle cylinder count and range from AED 370 for 4-cylinder vehicles to AED 620 for 12-cylinder vehicles, with an additional knowledge fee of AED 10 and an innovation fee of AED 10. Abu Dhabi charges AED 450 for standard passenger vehicles plus an AED 200 compulsory vehicle insurance gateway fee. Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain charge between AED 350 and AED 500 for standard vehicles with minor emirate-specific additions.
Online and Smart Renewal
Dubai allows online registration renewal via the RTA app or website for vehicles that have already passed inspection and have valid insurance. The Mulkiya is delivered by post or can be collected from service centres. Abu Dhabi renewal can be completed via the TAMM or ADJD platforms. All UAE emirates now offer some level of digital renewal for eligible vehicles.
Late Renewal Penalties
Driving with an expired Mulkiya in the UAE results in a traffic fine. In Dubai the fine is AED 400 with 4 black points and vehicle impoundment is possible for repeat violations. Other emirates apply similar or higher fines. Renew before expiry to avoid penalties.