Step 1: Customs Clearance
Before anything else, the vehicle has to clear UAE customs. You'll need the original invoice or bill of sale, the vehicle's title/ownership document, and the Bill of Lading if it arrived by sea. Customs duty on imported vehicles is generally calculated at 5% of the vehicle's assessed value, similar to other general goods.
Step 2: GCC Conformity Certificate
Vehicles imported from outside the GCC (from the US, Japan, or Europe, for example) typically need a conformity certificate confirming the vehicle meets UAE specifications — covering items like headlight orientation, speedometer units, and safety standards. Vehicles already built to GCC specification usually skip this step.
Step 3: RTA Technical Testing
Once cleared through customs, the vehicle must pass an RTA technical inspection covering brakes, emissions, chassis condition, and general roadworthiness. This has to be booked at an approved RTA testing centre, and the vehicle, its customs clearance certificate, and the owner's Emirates ID must all be presented together.
Step 4: Mulkiya (Registration) and Plates
After a successful test, RTA issues the Mulkiya (registration card) and allocates number plates. Only once this is complete can the vehicle legally be driven on UAE roads.
Typical Costs to Budget For
- Customs duty — approximately 5% of the vehicle's assessed value
- Conformity certificate (if applicable) — varies by vehicle origin and specification
- RTA testing fee
- Registration and plate issuance fees
- Comprehensive insurance, required before registration can be completed
Vehicle already at the port? Send us the chassis number and shipping documents on WhatsApp and we'll confirm exactly what's needed before it can be tested and registered.
Common Reasons Vehicle Imports Get Delayed
- ✓Missing or incomplete ownership documents at customs
- ✓No conformity certificate for a non-GCC-spec vehicle
- ✓RTA test booked before customs clearance is finalised
- ✓Insurance not arranged before the registration appointment
