Can Tourists Buy Special Dubai Plates? | Auto Trader UAE

Can Tourists Buy Special Dubai Plates?

Dubai is a city where cars are more than just transportation – they’re a lifestyle statement. From luxury SUVs cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road to supercars parked in front of five-star hotels, every detail counts, including the license plates. Special or “VIP” plates, with unique numbers and fewer digits, have become a status symbol in Dubai. They often sell for millions at exclusive auctions, making them one of the most fascinating aspects of the city’s car culture.

But what about tourists? Can someone visiting Dubai for business or leisure buy one of these coveted plates? The answer is yes, but with a few conditions.

How It Works

To purchase a special plate in Dubai, whether through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or at a plate auction, you generally need to have a valid Emirates ID and a vehicle registered under your name in the UAE. For tourists, this can be a challenge since most don’t have residency status or locally registered vehicles.

However, there are ways for non-residents to participate. In some cases, tourists can:

• Register through an authorized representative: If you have a trusted local partner or relative who is a UAE resident, they can buy and register the plate on your behalf.
• Purchase as an investment at auction: Some international buyers join Dubai’s famous plate auctions, where the plate is considered more like a collectible or an asset. The plate can be held until the buyer transfers it to a UAE-registered vehicle or resells it later.
• Company-owned vehicles: Tourists who set up businesses in the UAE can register vehicles under their company and then purchase special plates legally.

Why Are Special Plates So Popular?

In Dubai, having a unique number plate is about more than just cars – it’s about prestige. A shorter number plate, like a single-digit or double-digit plate, is a sign of status, wealth, and exclusivity. Some plates have sold for tens of millions of dirhams, often making headlines around the world.

For car enthusiasts visiting Dubai, attending an RTA plate auction is an experience in itself. These events are vibrant, competitive, and give you a firsthand look at how much value people place on owning a piece of automotive identity.

Final Thoughts

So, can tourists buy special Dubai plates? Yes, but it’s not as straightforward as walking into the RTA office with your passport. It usually requires local ties, company registration, or participation through a representative. For many, however, the excitement isn’t just in owning a special plate, but in being part of Dubai’s unique car culture that blends luxury, exclusivity, and passion for the road.

If you’re interested in the world of cars, from special number plates in Dubai to the booming used car market, you can always explore the best listings and insights at Auto Trader UAE.