How to buy a car in Abu Dhabi as an expat?

You’ve just moved to Abu Dhabi. You step outside your hotel, and within minutes, you notice how most people seem to drive—not walk. Wide roads, spacious parking lots, and vast distances between neighborhoods create the impression that owning a car isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. And if you’re coming from somewhere like İstanbul, where metro and minibus lines reach every corner, Abu Dhabi’s car-first setup might feel like a big change.

But don’t worry. The car-buying process for expats is straightforward, provided you follow local procedures and stay clear of common traps.

Understanding who can legally buy a car

First things first: as an expat, you need a valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID to legally purchase and register a car. Tourists cannot register a vehicle in their name, even if they have international driving permits. You also need a UAE driving license—licenses from most other countries are not accepted for registration.

For residents who’ve recently arrived, this means car ownership must wait until your legal documents are finalized. That’s why many new arrivals begin with rentals or use ride-hailing apps until paperwork is complete.

New or used—what to expect from each

In Abu Dhabi, you can choose between brand-new vehicles from official dealers or used cars from private sellers and showrooms. New cars come with warranties, service packages, and financing options. They’re offered by dealers like Al-Futtaim (Toyota), Ali & Sons (Volkswagen), or Al Masaood (Nissan), with showrooms in industrial zones such as Mussafah.

Used cars are cheaper but require careful inspection. Many expats use platforms like Dubizzle to browse listings, but always inspect the car with a trusted mechanic before closing a deal. Unlike in Türkiye, where notaries handle used car transfers, in Abu Dhabi the process happens entirely through Emirates Vehicle Gate and Abu Dhabi Police systems.

It’s common to find vehicles with extremely low mileage, since city driving here involves fewer stop-start patterns compared to traffic-heavy areas like Bakırköy or Kadıköy.

Financing options and what to watch for

If you’re not buying with cash, financing is widely available. Most banks in Abu Dhabi offer car loans to expats who meet basic requirements: stable income, residence visa, and a minimum salary (usually confirmed with a salary certificate from your employer).

The car loan is typically issued for up to five years. Down payments are mandatory—usually around 20 percent—but some dealerships partner with banks to reduce this through seasonal offers.

Banks often check your credit report through Al Etihad Credit Bureau. If you’ve lived in the UAE for less than six months, they may require additional guarantees. This is different from how Türkiye’s bank systems work, where past national credit scores dominate decision-making.

Insurance is mandatory before registration

Before you register your car, you must secure insurance from a licensed provider. Third-party liability insurance is the minimum legal requirement, but many expats choose comprehensive policies that cover theft, collision, and personal injury.

Insurance rates depend on the car’s model, age, and your driving history. Some companies offer policies in Turkish, Urdu, and English, which helps new residents avoid misunderstandings. Make sure your insurance document matches your Emirates ID and driving license details exactly, or the registration process may be delayed.

Once insured, the vehicle can be registered under your name. This is done through Abu Dhabi Police traffic departments or online portals, where you receive a registration card, license plate, and sticker.

How to transfer ownership correctly

If you’re buying from another expat or a used car dealership, ownership must be transferred officially. Both buyer and seller must be present at the Abu Dhabi Traffic Department, or one party can authorize the other through a notarized power of attorney.

The vehicle must pass a roadworthiness test if it’s more than three years old. Once passed, the seller clears any outstanding fines through the Emirates Vehicle Gate system, and the buyer completes registration.

Unlike Turkey, where transfer fees are paid at the notary, in Abu Dhabi all charges are handled electronically at traffic centers, with fees depending on the vehicle’s type and plate category.

Avoiding common pitfalls as a first-time buyer

It might be tempting to grab the first shiny sedan with a low price tag, but not all used cars are what they seem. Some have been in major accidents, suffered from flood damage, or carry hidden mechanical issues.

Ask for the car’s full history report through Emirates Vehicle Gate. Avoid cars registered in Northern Emirates if you plan to use them daily in Abu Dhabi, as insurance coverage rules can differ across emirates.

And always make sure the person selling the car is the legal owner. Scams are rare, but they do happen to newcomers unfamiliar with the system.

Annual costs and ongoing responsibilities

Owning a car in Abu Dhabi comes with several recurring responsibilities. These include annual registration renewal, vehicle inspection (for older cars), insurance renewal, and road toll usage tracking.

If you’re renting a home in areas like Al Khalidiya or Al Nahyan, you’ll also need a paid parking permit, which is registered under your vehicle plate. Parking enforcement is strict, and violations quickly lead to fines.

Fuel is cheaper compared to many other countries, but car maintenance must be factored into your monthly budget. Oil changes, tire rotation, and A/C servicing are essential due to long drives and high temperatures.

Monthly car-related expenses for a mid-range sedan usually stay under control, but luxury cars or high-maintenance SUVs require more attention, both financially and logistically.

Selling your car when leaving Abu Dhabi

Many expats eventually return home or move to another country. Selling a car in Abu Dhabi is usually fast—especially through verified marketplaces or dealers. But remember, outstanding loans must be cleared before a sale.

If you leave the country permanently without deregistering your vehicle, fines may continue to accumulate. That’s why we suggest either selling your car in advance or assigning a trusted contact to complete the transfer on your behalf.

Abu Dhabi Police allows registered owners to manage vehicle deregistration online, provided all documents and payments are up to date.

Your car becomes more than transportation

According to the www.few.ae editörü, most expats say buying a car helps them feel settled and independent in Abu Dhabi. From spontaneous beach drives to school pickups and weekend trips to Dubai, having your own vehicle opens up the city in a way public transport can’t.

Unlike countries where car ownership is a status symbol, here it’s more about freedom and function. If you approach it with patience, preparation, and clear paperwork, your Abu Dhabi car journey begins smoothly and stays hassle-free.