Curious about how to check the owner of the car by number plate in UAE? This concise guide will walk you through the digital tools and official platforms available in 2025. Whether you are verifying a used car purchase or need clarity after an incident, you’ll find the step-by-step process both efficient and reliable.
How to Find Car Owner Information in 3 Steps
1. Use Official Government Platforms
When you want to check the owner of the car by number plate in UAE, the first step is to visit trusted government websites and apps. The Dubai RTA website offers a secure portal where you can obtain vehicle owner details for AED 52 (approximately SAR 52), provided you verify your Emirates ID. The MOI UAE app is another robust option; simply select the 'Traffic Services > Vehicle Information' option to get essential information nationwide. Abu Dhabi Police Smart Services also allow you to request a Traffic File Number to confirm ownership details. These platforms incorporate digital verification and are aligned with current GCC certification standards.
2. Leverage Third-Party Verification Services
If you need an alternative or quicker verification process, consider legal third-party services that assist with how to check the owner of the car by number plate in UAE. These services also perform comprehensive vehicle history checks and ensure your used car purchase is safe. Below is a snapshot of available services along with their cost range and delivery time:
CarReport.ae:Costs range from AED 120 to AED 250 (roughly SAR 120-250) with a delivery time of 24-48 hours. This service is ideal for buyers needing detailed vehicle history reports.
AutoCheck.ae:Priced between AED 99 and AED 180 (approximately SAR 99-180) with an option for an instant PDF report, this service covers both ownership and registration details.
Using such services not only simplifies the process but also provides supplementary information like previous insurance claims and accident records.
3. Visit Local Traffic Departments
For those who prefer face-to-face interactions, visiting your local traffic department remains a reliable choice. In Dubai, you can head to the Al Barsha Licensing Centre (open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 3 PM), and in Abu Dhabi, the Main Vehicle Licensing Building (Saturday to Thursday, 8 AM to 6 PM) can assist you with verifying details by number plate. This approach is beneficial if you have more complex queries or require additional document verification, ensuring that every step adheres to mandated legal procedures.
Why Check Vehicle Ownership in UAE?
Verifying vehicle ownership can be critical in several scenarios. You might be confirming a used car purchase—a common practice among UAE buyers to avoid future disputes—or you may need the information for accident reporting and parking violation resolutions. Often, it’s also a pre-check measure before finalizing vehicle rental agreements. The verification process gives you insight into the current owner's identity (with privacy-protected partial details), confirms the registration expiry date, and provides key vehicle information such as make, model, and year. This helps you make informed decisions in an increasingly digital and regulated automotive landscape.
Important Legal Considerations
When learning how to check the owner of the car by number plate in UAE, it’s critical to understand and respect local privacy laws. Federal Decree-Law No. 45/2021 limits the disclosure of full owner details to authorized parties such as insurance companies, legal authorities, or verified buyers with a legitimate purchase agreement. Misusing this information or relying on unlicensed apps can lead to legal consequences under UAE cyber laws. Ensure that you only use official or partner platforms and never share the obtained plate number publicly.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
Relying on unregulated lookup apps that may breach UAE privacy standards.
Publicly posting vehicle plate numbers, which could potentially violate data protection policies.
Assuming that accessing detailed personal data is free; in reality, fees may vary based on the service provider.
Alternative Verification Methods
If the standard processes do not meet your needs, you can also cross-check using the vehicle’s Identification Number (VIN). The VIN, found on the dashboard, door frame sticker, or engine block, can provide supplementary details about the car’s history and registration. Additionally, major insurance providers in the UAE, such as Oman Insurance and AXA Emirates, might confirm policyholder status and basic vehicle specifications (with owner consent). This alternative route is particularly effective for ensuring that the information you gather is consistent across multiple verification channels.
Last updated:January 2025 - All procedures comply with UAE Federal Traffic Law No. 21/2023
FAQ
Q1:Can I obtain the full car owner details using these methods?The official platforms and legal third-party services will only provide partial owner details in compliance with UAE privacy laws. You can verify key information such as the registration expiry date and vehicle specifications, but personal data is limited for public access. These restrictions aim to protect individual privacy while allowing necessary validations. Always ensure you are using these methods for legitimate reasons.
Q2:How do I verify vehicle ownership when purchasing a used car?Before purchasing a used car, you should first check the number plate using the Dubai RTA or MOI UAE app to see current registration details and verify the vehicle history. Third-party services can supplement this by providing a complete history report, including any accident or insurance claims. This step is crucial to avoid future legal complications. Rigorous verification helps ensure that your purchase complies with both local regulations and safety standards.
**Q3:What precautions should I take when using third-party services to check ownership? **When opting for third-party verification services, always confirm that they are legally certified and adhere to UAE privacy laws. Check reviews, compare cost ranges, and verify that the service provider issues secure reports. This will help ensure your data remains protected and you receive reliable information. Remember, the process is designed to assist you in making well-informed decisions during vehicle transactions.
Q4:Can I cross-check vehicle information using the VIN?Yes, you can use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) as an additional method to verify the car’s history. The VIN appears on the dashboard or door frame and offers a reliable record of the vehicle’s past. However, this method is typically used alongside plate number verification to build a comprehensive profile of the car. It provides you with further assurance, especially when verifying details required for insurance or resale purposes.
This article is for reference only, please refer to the latest local laws and regulations
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Mustafa Karim, having been deeply involved in automotive research and development for over ten years. He is fond of Japanese cars, and their precise and energy-efficient features have influenced him. In his spare time, he loves Japanese anime and kendo, drawing inspiration from them for control system research and development. He also often shares cutting-edge automotive knowledge on platforms, contributing to industry innovation and adding strength to automotive development with his expertise.