Number Plate: Dubai, the city known for its extravagance and luxury, is gearing up for another exciting event – the highly anticipated Dubai number plate auction. This prestigious event, returning this month, is sure to attract car enthusiasts and collectors with a penchant for exclusivity.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a new electronic auction kicking off on Monday, July 29th, 2024. This online platform will showcase a collection of 350 unique three, four, and five-digit number plates for private vehicles across various categories (A-B-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Z).
Marking the 76th auction of its kind, this event promises to be a thrilling display of competition and a chance to acquire a coveted piece of Dubai’s automotive landscape.
Number Plate: Here’s what you need to know to participate
- Registration is Key: The bidding frenzy starts on July 29th at 8:00 AM, but interested participants need to register beforehand. The deadline to register is Monday, July 22nd. You can register conveniently through the RTA website.
- Eligibility Matters: Not everyone can join the bidding war. To be eligible, you must have a valid traffic file in Dubai and be prepared to submit two fees: a Dhs5,000 security cheque and a Dhs120 registration fee.
- Past is a Prologue: The potential rewards are high, justifying the upfront costs. Earlier this year, a two-digit plate, AA16, fetched a staggering Dhs7.32 million, while a three-digit plate, AA999, went for a cool Dhs4.05 million.
- Prepare for Additional Charges: The winning bid isn’t the final expense. Winners will be charged a 5% value-added tax on the final price of their chosen plate.
- The Final Plates Remain a Surprise: While the official list of available plates hasn’t been revealed yet, the RTA has confirmed the categories (A-B-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Z) that will be represented.
- Payment Options: For those who qualify and wish to register, payment of the fees can be made at designated RTA Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha, and Deira. Alternatively, online payment via credit card on the RTA website is also available.
Beyond the Auction: Important Information for Drivers in Dubai
This article also serves as a helpful guide for expatriate residents and tourists navigating the driving landscape in Dubai:
- GCC and International Driving Licences: Expat residents holding driving licenses issued in GCC countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain, or countries like the UK, South Africa, France, Belgium, and Germany, can use their home country licenses to drive or rent a car in Dubai.
- International Driving Permit for Tourists: If you’re visiting Dubai and plan on renting a car for a short-term stay, you’ll need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home country’s driving license.
With the Dubai number plate auction just around the corner, the excitement is building. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply intrigued by the spectacle, this event offers a glimpse into the world of luxury car ownership in Dubai. So, if you have the means and the desire for a truly unique number plate, be sure to register and get ready to bid!