TL;DR
- Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will auction 350 special number plates starting August 11.
- Plates include two, three, four, and five-digit options with codes from H to Z.
- Registration starts on August 4, and to join, you’ll need to provide a Dh5,000 security cheque plus a Dh120 fee.
Dubai is set to hold its 80th online auction for special vehicle number plates, giving car owners a chance to own a unique and sometimes highly valuable identifier for their vehicles. The auction will run from August 11 to August 15 and offer 350 exclusive plates across different categories. If you’ve ever wanted a license plate that stands out, this is an event to watch.The event is organized by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Their auctions are well-known for featuring plates with combinations of two to five digits, and they often attract big bids, especially for shorter numbers. For instance, earlier in 2024, a two-digit plate (AA16) sold for over Dh7 million. So, these plates are not just numbers, they’re status symbols and sometimes investment pieces.
What Plates Are Available?
This auction covers plates bearing the letters from H through Z, including numbers with two, three, four, and five digits. The plates can be used for private vehicles, classic cars, and motorcycles. The variety means there’s something for almost every type of vehicle owner interested in personalizing their ride.How to Take PartIf you want to join the auction, here’s what you need to know:
- Registration: You can register starting August 4, and the registration stays open until the auction begins.
- Eligibility: You must hold a valid traffic file registered in Dubai.
- Fees: You’ll need to submit a refundable Dh5,000 security cheque and pay a non-refundable participation fee of Dh120.
- Payment Locations: Pay either online through the RTA website or in person at their Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha, and Deira.
Bidding and Payment Details
Once you win a plate, you have ten working days to complete your payment. The payment methods vary depending on the amount:
- For amounts up to Dh50,000, you can pay in cash at authorized service centers.
- If you’re paying more than Dh50,000, you’ll need to use a certified cheque or credit card.
All transactions include a 5% Value Added Tax (VAT). The RTA allows payments to be made either online or in person at Customer Happiness Centres.
Why Bid on These Plates?
Special number plates in Dubai have become more than just a way to register your car. They’re seen as symbols of prestige. Many bidders participate hoping to get plates that stand out or might even increase in value over time. The lower the number, generally, the higher the price. That’s why two-digit plates often fetch millions of dirhams.
What you need to know
- Auction Date: August 11 to 15, 2025
- Registration Opens: August 4
- Number of Plates: 350 plates (codes H-Z)
- Participation Fee: Dh120 + refundable Dh5,000 cheque
- Payment Deadline: Within 10 working days after winning
FAQs
Q1: Can anyone participate in the auction?No, only those who have a valid traffic file registered in Dubai can take part.Q2: What happens if I don’t complete the payment after winning?If payment isn’t completed within 10 working days, the winning bid may be cancelled, and your security deposit forfeited.Q3: How do I register for the auction?You can register in person at RTA’s Customer Happiness Centres or online through their official website.
