Buying a used car in Dubai is one of the smartest ways for expats—especially Indians—to save money while getting a high-quality vehicle. With thousands of options, easy financing, and transparent RTA processes, Dubai’s used-car market is the most trusted in the Middle East. However, without proper checks, buyers can fall into costly mistakes. This detailed guide explains every step Indians must follow before buying a second-hand car in 2025.
Overview Table
| Category | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18+ | Must hold UAE driving licence |
| Ideal Budget Range | AED 10,000 – 50,000 | Best value for Indians |
| Required Documents | Emirates ID, DL, Insurance | For registration |
| Mandatory Check | RTA Vehicle Passing Test | Before transfer |
| Preferred Sellers | Showrooms & certified dealers | Safer than private sellers |
| Transfer Fees | AED 350 – 500 | RTA charges only |
Why Indians Prefer Used Cars in Dubai
The used car market in Dubai is massive, thanks to:
- High turnover of expats
- Well-maintained vehicles
- Low depreciation compared to India
- Transparent RTA reports
- Affordable insurance and maintenance
Buying used allows Indian residents to own premium brands like Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, and even luxury cars at nearly half the price.
Where to Buy Used Cars in Dubai
Before purchasing a second-hand vehicle, Indians should explore multiple trusted sources:
1. RTA-Approved Car Showrooms
These include:
- Al Futtaim Automall
- Carswitch
- Carzaty
- Al Naboodah Certified Used Cars
Best for: Verified inspection, warranty options, and minimal risk.
2. Online Classified Platforms
Popular websites:
- Dubizzle
- YallaMotor
- Facebook Marketplace
Best for: Finding cheaper deals but requires extra precautions.
3. Private Sellers
Often cheaper but comes with higher risk. Always insist on:
- RTA test report
- Original documents
- Service history
Steps Indians Must Follow Before Buying a Used Car in Dubai (2025)
1. Set Your Budget
Most Indians choose:
- Budget cars: AED 10,000 – 20,000
- Mid-range cars: AED 20,000 – 40,000
- Premium used cars: AED 40,000 – 80,000
Include additional expenses:
- Insurance
- Registration
- Maintenance check
- Salik tag
2. Shortlist the Car Models
Popular models loved by Indians:
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Camry
- Honda Civic
- Nissan Altima
- Mitsubishi Pajero
- Toyota Yaris
These cars offer durability, easy maintenance, and availability of spare parts.
3. Do a Full RTA Vehicle Inspection
Before making payment, request an RTA-approved inspection report.
This report includes:
- Accident history
- Chassis damage
- Engine condition
- Mileage verification
- Tyres, brakes, suspension
Never buy a car without an official RTA passing certificate.
4. Check Service History
Ask for:
- Dealer-maintained records
- Previous repair receipts
- Oil change intervals
A fully documented service history means the car was well-maintained.
5. Take a Proper Test Drive
During the test drive, check:
- Engine smoothness
- AC performance
- Steering alignment
- Gear shifting
- Brake response
- Noise or vibrations
If possible, take a mechanic with you—many garages offer a 100–150 AED test-drive inspection.
6. Verify Car Documents
Always check:
- Mulkiya (vehicle registration card)
- Valid insurance
- Ownership details
- Chassis number matches registration
Check the car is not:
- Mortgaged
- Wanted by police
- Under loan hold
This can be checked on the RTA app.
7. Negotiate the Price
Dubai used-car prices always have room for negotiation.
Average negotiation margin:
5% – 15% depending on:
- Car condition
- Urgency of seller
- Market demand
8. Arrange Car Insurance
Without insurance, you cannot transfer ownership.
Types:
- Third-party: Cheapest (AED 500–900)
- Comprehensive: AED 1,200–3,000
New drivers under 25 may pay higher.
9. Complete RTA Ownership Transfer
Both buyer and seller must visit an RTA center or smart kiosk.
Documents required:
- Emirates ID
- Insurance certificate
- Passing report
- Vehicle registration card
Fees:
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transfer Fee | AED 350–500 |
| New Plate Number (if needed) | AED 35–500 |
| Mulkiya Printing Fee | AED 50 |
You will receive a new Mulkiya (registration card) in your name instantly.
10. Optional: Extended Warranty
Many showrooms offer:
- 1-year warranty
- 6-month engine & gearbox warranty
This is highly recommended for Indians buying higher-end models.
Used Car Price Guide (2025 Estimates)
| Car Model | Year | Avg. Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | 2015–2018 | 23,000 – 35,000 |
| Honda Civic | 2014–2018 | 20,000 – 32,000 |
| Nissan Altima | 2015–2019 | 18,000 – 30,000 |
| Toyota Yaris | 2016–2020 | 15,000 – 28,000 |
| Mitsubishi Pajero | 2012–2016 | 22,000 – 40,000 |
| Hyundai Elantra | 2016–2019 | 17,000 – 28,000 |
Common Mistakes Indians Should Avoid
- Buying without RTA testing
- Paying cash before seeing documents
- Trusting private sellers blindly
- Not checking chassis damage
- Choosing cars with extremely low prices (often accident cars)
- Forgetting insurance costs
Avoiding these mistakes will save you thousands of dirhams.
Conclusion
Buying a used car in Dubai is easy, safe, and fast—if you follow the right process. For Indians, the key is to focus on RTA inspection, document verification, and trusted sellers. With proper checks, you can get a high-quality car at a great price and complete the entire procedure within a day.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe for Indians to buy used cars in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai’s market is highly regulated and safe when you follow RTA procedures.
Q2: Do I need a UAE licence before buying a car?
Yes, owning a car requires holding a valid UAE driving licence.
Q3: How do I know if a used car had an accident?
The RTA inspection report clearly shows accident and chassis history.