New Decision on Unregistered Vehicle Plate Ownership in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has issued a new administrative decision governing the sale and ownership of unassigned distinguished vehicle plate numbers in Abu Dhabi. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) has been assigned responsibility for implementing the decision to facilitate the transfer of unregistered plate numbers in Abu Dhabi in coordination with relevant authorities.
Unregistered Plate Numbers In Abu Dhabi

Designed to enhance clarity and accessibility, the decision establishes a transparent mechanism that enables both citizens and residents to obtain distinctive car plate numbers in Abu Dhabi through simplified, well-regulated procedures.
The updated framework categorises Abu Dhabi vehicle plate numbers into Distinguished Numbers and Non-Distinguished Numbers. Distinguished Numbers include all single, double, triple and quadruple-digit plates, along with certain five-digit plates subject to specific criteria. This classification offers a broad selection of distinctive options for buyers.
DMT’s decision on unregistered plate numbers in Abu Dhabi comes with regulations. The new decision allows citizens and residents of the UAE to own an unlimited number of plate numbers and their ownership certificates, with full rights to sell or transfer them.
Previously issued plate numbers cannot be offered for sale unless supported by an official ownership certificate. Plate numbers may be converted from possession to full ownership once the legal process is completed, after which they may be linked to a vehicle or retained on the owner’s record.
Ownership fees are determined according to the level of distinction associated with each plate category.
Restrictions on Previously Issued Distinguished Numbers
Previously issued distinguished plate numbers registered without official ownership are restricted from being transferred or sold unless ownership is formally established. An exception applies to first-degree relatives, including parents, siblings, spouses and children. These may complete transfers in accordance with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has issued a new Administrative Decision governing the sale and ownership of unassigned distinguished vehicle plate numbers in Abu Dhabi. The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) has been assigned responsibility for implementing the decision to facilitate the transfer of unregistered plate numbers in Abu Dhabi in coordination with relevant authorities.
Notifications for Users of Unowned Distinguished Numbers
The authority has confirmed that individuals operating distinguished plate numbers without official ownership will receive text messages detailing their ownership requirements and the associated fees. The process will take effect once all legal obligations have been fulfilled.
Service Availability and Digital Implementation
In the initial phase, services related to this decision will be provided through in-person visits to customer service centres. Digital access through the TAMM Abu Dhabi platform will follow, offering a more convenient and streamlined experience for all users.
FAQs
What is DMT’s Administrative Decision On Ownership Of Unregistered Plates In Abu Dhabi?
DMT’s Administrative Decision establishes a clear, regulated framework for acquiring, owning and transferring distinguished vehicle plate numbers in Abu Dhabi.
What are the New Abu Dhabi Distinctive Plate Ownership Rules?
The new rules allow UAE citizens and residents to officially own, buy, sell and transfer distinctive Abu Dhabi vehicle plate numbers. These include single- to 5-digit numbers, under a regulated, certificate-based system.
How does the new decision impact the transfer of vehicle ownership?
The new decision streamlines the process of vehicle ownership transfer in Abu Dhabi by ensuring that distinctive plate numbers can be formally owned and transferred without administrative ambiguity.
This is everything about the new decision for unregistered plate numbers in Abu Dhabi. This decision represents a significant enhancement in the regulation of distinguished vehicle plate numbers in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing transparency, protecting ownership rights and supporting a more efficient administrative system.
The ownership of distinguished number plates in the UAE has increased and some distinct ones have been auctioned for staggering amounts. The facts about number plates in the UAE tell more interesting stories about these car components.
Be wary of the new rules when buying used or new cars for sale in Abu Dhabi to avoid any conflicts.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for updates about car-related laws in the UAE and more.