The New RTA E-Sales Agreement: A Step-by-Step Guide for Used Car Buyers in Dubai
Buying a used car in Dubai has just become smoother and more transparent, thanks to the RTA’s new e-sales agreement — a fully digital process that eliminates paperwork, reduces fraud, and speeds up ownership transfer. Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, understanding how the RTA e-sales system works can save you both time and money.
What Is the RTA E-Sales Agreement?
The RTA e-sales agreement is an official digital contract issued and verified by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
It replaces traditional handwritten sale contracts and connects all key stakeholders — the seller, buyer, and insurance provider — under one secure online system.
This means:
- No more handwritten forms or physical signatures
- Automatic verification of vehicle ownership
- Integration with insurance and traffic systems
- Instant approval for registration and title transfer
It’s the future of used car transactions in Dubai — faster, safer, and 100% paperless.
Step-by-Step: How the RTA E-Sales Agreement Works
Here’s how to complete the process in five simple steps:
1. Visit an RTA-Approved Dealer or Smart Service Center
If you’re buying from a licensed dealer, the e-sales agreement is initiated automatically through their RTA-linked system.
Private sellers can complete it at any RTA Customer Happiness Center or Tasjeel branch.
2. Provide Emirates ID and Vehicle Details
Both buyer and seller must present:
- Valid Emirates ID
- UAE driving license (for buyer)
- Mulkiya (vehicle registration card)
The RTA system verifies all details instantly.
3. Vehicle Inspection & Outstanding Fines
Before sale completion, the car undergoes an RTA-approved technical inspection.
Any pending fines or Salik violations must be cleared before proceeding.
4. Insurance & e-Signature
The buyer links a new or existing car insurance policy within the same system.
Once confirmed, both parties digitally sign the RTA e-sales agreement using their Emirates ID authentication.
5. Payment & Ownership Transfer
Payment can be made directly through the dealer’s RTA portal or at the service counter.
Upon confirmation, ownership is instantly updated in the RTA system, and a digital Mulkiya (vehicle registration card) is issued via the Dubai Drive app.
Why the New E-Sales Agreement Matters
This system is more than just convenient — it’s transforming the used car market in Dubai:
Fraud Prevention — Verified digital contracts reduce fake transactions
Instant Ownership Transfer — No delays or manual errors
Eco-Friendly — Paperless and fully integrated
Transparency — All records are digitally traceable
24/7 Access — Manage transfers anytime through RTA Smart Services
Tips for Used Car Buyers in Dubai
- Always confirm that the vehicle is registered under the seller’s name in the RTA system.
- Use the RTA Dubai app to check for pending fines, inspection reports, and service history.
- When buying from private sellers, complete the e-sales process only through official RTA centers.
- Keep your digital Mulkiya and insurance documents saved securely.
External Resource
For full official details and verification, visit the RTA Dubai official e-services portal.
FAQs: Understanding the RTA E-Sales Agreement in Dubai
1. What is the RTA e-sales agreement in Dubai?
The RTA e-sales agreement is a digital contract introduced by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to streamline used car sales. It replaces handwritten agreements with a secure online process that automatically verifies ownership, clears fines, and completes the transfer digitally.
2. How can I complete the RTA e-sales process for a used car?
You can complete the e-sales process through an RTA-approved dealership, Customer Happiness Center, or Tasjeel service center. Both the buyer and seller must bring their Emirates ID, driving license, and vehicle registration card (Mulkiya). The RTA system handles the entire transaction digitally, including inspection, payment, and ownership transfer.
3. Is the RTA e-sales agreement mandatory for used car sales?
Yes. As of 2025, all used car transactions in Dubai must go through the RTA e-sales system — whether the car is sold through a dealer or privately. This ensures all transactions are legitimate, traceable, and compliant with Dubai’s vehicle transfer laws.
4. Can I use the RTA e-sales agreement when buying from a private seller?
Absolutely. The RTA e-sales platform supports private transactions. Both the buyer and seller can visit any RTA Customer Happiness Center or Tasjeel branch to finalize the sale through the official digital process.
5. What documents are required for the RTA e-sales process?
You’ll need:
- Valid Emirates ID (buyer & seller)
- UAE driving license (buyer)
- Original Mulkiya (vehicle registration card)
- Valid car insurance (buyer)
- Cleared fines and Salik balance
6. How long does the RTA e-sales transfer take?
If all documents and payments are ready, the entire e-sales process takes around 15–20 minutes. Once approved, ownership updates instantly in the RTA system, and the buyer receives a digital Mulkiya via the Dubai Drive app.
7. Do I still get a physical registration card after using the e-sales system?
No, the RTA now issues a digital Mulkiya that can be accessed anytime through the Dubai Drive app or your RTA account. However, you can request a printed version if required.
8. Are there any extra fees for the RTA e-sales service?
Yes, standard RTA fees apply for ownership transfer and vehicle inspection, typically ranging from AED 350 to AED 500 depending on the vehicle type and service center.
9. How do I check if a used car is eligible for the e-sales process?
You can verify eligibility by entering the vehicle plate or chassis number on the RTA Dubai official website or through the Dubai Drive app, which shows the car’s registration status and pending fines.
10. Why is the RTA e-sales system better than traditional car sales?
The e-sales system offers security, transparency, and speed. Buyers can trust that ownership transfers are verified by the RTA, while sellers enjoy a faster, fraud-free process — all completed digitally without paperwork.
Explore More:
- Dubai's Used Car Checklist: Steps After You Buy
- RTA Rules to Know Before Buying a Used Car in Dubai
Final Thoughts
The RTA e-sales agreement represents a major leap forward for used car buyers in Dubai, combining convenience, safety, and trust under one digital platform. Whether you’re upgrading your ride or buying your first car, this process ensures every transaction is secure, transparent, and hassle-free.
For more guides, listings, and used cars for sale in Dubai, visit Auto Trader UAE — your trusted source for buying and selling used cars across the UAE.