Guide to Get UAE Custom License Plate Numbers

The UAE’s quirky spectrum of wealth demonstrated via unique license plate number rather than the car itself making it stand out from the rest of the world. In the Emirates, custom license plates are more than just identifiers—they’re status symbols and savvy investments, many spending millions on them. So, how do you get these custom license plate numbers in the UAE? This ultimate guide walks you through the process of acquiring a personalized number plate, elaborating on plate types to application steps, costs, and the latest updates. Here's everything you need to know to make your vehicle stand out.

Understanding UAE License Plates

All seven emirates of the UAE have their own number plate issuance system for design and codes, while adhering to the UAE’s central licensing guidelines. For instance Abu Dhabi uses “AD”, Dubai “D”, Sharjah “SH”, and so on, displayed in Arabic and English alongside numerical identifiers—e.g., D 2145 or AD 8462.

In Dubai, in addition to the "D" code, plates also feature a series of letters (e.g., A, B, C, etc.) which often indicate the age of the plate's issuance. “A” being older than “B”, and so on, with older, single-letter series being highly sought after, as they are considered rare and prestigious.

These emirates use the same color coding for different vehicle sectors, such as white for private cars, yellow for taxis, blue for government vehicles, and red for commercial use. Motorcycles and diplomatic vehicles have unique formats. These numerical plates are the backbone of the UAE’s registration system, optimized for clarity and automated recognition.

Can You Add Your Name or a Word to a UAE License Plate?

No, you cannot add your name (“ALI”, “ROSE”) or a word (“LOVE”, “SUNSHINE”) to a UAE license plate number, unlike in some Western countries like the US and Australia. You can only choose a combination of numbers (generally 3-6 digits). While one- and two-digit number plates are also available for purchase, they cannot be customized, as they are pre-planned and extremely exclusive. They are acquirable through auctions (RTA’s Most Noble Number, Emirates Auction).

The UAE prioritizes numbers for cultural prestige and compatibility with license plate recognition systems, while avoiding licensing complexities. Furthermore, authorities, per Federal Traffic Law No. 21 of 1995, vet all plates to ensure they’re not offensive or misleading, but since words aren’t allowed, this is rarely an issue. For instance, numbers like “A 55” or “D 69” or “D 666” etc., are not allowed for cultural and religious reasons.

Types of Custom License Plates Available

Having learnt about UAE license plate regulations, the next step is to explore the variety. While Emirates licensing bodies like Dubai RTA, Abu Dhabi Police, and other Emirates’ Traffic and Licensing Directorate let you choose your preferred license plate numbers, they recommend the closest match if your number is already taken. Here are the types of custom license plates you can acquire:

• Standard Plates: These are ordinary 3-6 digit plate numbers, offering customization within available combinations provided by the authorities.

• Luxury/VIP Plates: Highly-sought after, single- and double-digit plate numbers (“D 5”, “P 7”, ‘’7”, “1” “BB 55”, “11”) and repeating numbers (e.g., “7777”), which are often available at auctions, costing millions of dirhams.

• Special Editions: Besides standard and VIP numbers, some emirates give out specific prefix codes for designated campaigns and drivers. For instance, Dubai’s “S” code plates are for young drivers (18–35).

• Emirate-Specific: While the numeric system is consistent, each emirate maintains unique design elements for its plates. For instance, Sharjah has compact license plates, and Abu Dhabi offers sleek designs that cater to local preferences.

The Emirates authorities allow you to own UAE number plates without a vehicle, treating it as an investment, as plates often appreciate in value. It’s crucial to remember that the UAE’s prestige-driven market offers unique numeric-only customization options; "alphabet-only" or "alpha-numeric" combinations are not permitted.

How to Get a Custom License Plate in the UAE

Moving on to the main theme of the article, let’s understand how you can actually obtain a custom license plate in the Emirates.

Getting a license or customized license plate number in the UAE can be done through two different methods: Direct Purchase for I, and Auctions for the highly sought-after VIP/Luxury plates.

1. For Standard License Plate (Direct Purchase)

Acquire number plates that are part of the regular issuance series but still offer a level of customization (e.g., specific 3-6 digit combinations, or those not deemed exclusive enough for auction).

1. Check Availability

• Visit the official website of the respective emirate's licensing authority (e.g., RTA Dubai website, TAMM for Abu Dhabi, MOI UAE app for other emirates).

• Navigate to the "Vehicle Licensing" or "Plates" section, often under "Special Plates Enquiry" or "Inquire about Distinguished Plate Numbers."

• Log in using your UAE Pass or RTA/MOI account credentials.

• Enter your preferred number combination, specifying the number of digits and desired code.

• The system will show if the number is available and its price. If unavailable, it may suggest alternatives.

2. Purchase the Plate

• If the number is available, add it to your basket and proceed to checkout online.

• Make the payment using a credit/debit card. The plate number will then be reserved or added to your traffic file.

Alternatively, visit a Customer Happiness Centre or an RTA/MOI-approved vehicle registration and inspection center to complete the inquiry and purchase in person.

3. Link to Vehicle (if applicable)

• If you're replacing an existing plate, you'll need to apply for a "Change Vehicle Plate Number" service through the same online portals or service centers.

• Select the vehicle and the new plate number from your traffic file.

• Pay any associated service fees (e.g., plate design, installation).

4. Collect Plates

• Collect your new number plates from a designated RTA/MOI service center or approved Tasjeel/ADNOC vehicle inspection center.

• You can also have it delivered to your place using local delivery companies, like Aramex.

• You will need to hand over your old plates if you’re replacing an old one.

Eligibility:

• You must be a UAE resident with a valid Emirates ID or businesses.

• Have a valid traffic file in the emirate where you are applying.

• The plate is usually linked to a vehicle, though rules for owning plates without a vehicle exist (as mentioned earlier).

2. For Luxury/VIP Plates (Auctions)

1. Register for Auction

• Visit the official auction website (Emirates Auction, Dubai RTA).

• Create an account and register for the upcoming auctions.

• Pay a refundable security deposit (usually a fixed amount, e.g., AED 25,000) and a non-refundable participation fee.

2. Bid on Plates

• Online Auctions: Place your bids online on preferred plate numbers within the specified auction period.

• Live Auctions: Attend the physical auction and place bids in person.

3. Payment and Ownership Transfer

• If you win the bid, complete the full payment for the plate within a specified timeframe (usually a few days: 3-10 working days).

• Authorities will transfer the plate number and register it under your traffic file.

4. Registration and Collection

• The registration or vehicle linkage is the same as the direct purchase. 

• The collection can also be done like above—collect the physical plates from an authorized service center or have it delivered.

Eligibility:

• Open to individuals and businesses.

• Participants usually need a valid Emirates ID and a traffic file.

• Non-residents can often participate but must transfer the plate to a UAE-registered vehicle.

Costs and Fees for Custom Plates

While the cost for custom number plates in the Emirates can range from a few hundred to millions of dirhams, the following are the general pricing structures, based on current market trends.

• Standard Plates: AED 1,000–9,999 (for 3-6 digit plates); AED 300–600 for new registration or transfer; and basic plate design/printing fees (e.g., short plate AED 35, long plate AED 50).

• Luxury Plates: Auction prices start at AED 10,000 for 3-4 digit numbers and go up to AED 55 million for single-digit plates (e.g., Dubai’s "P 7" plate sold for 55M in April 2023 at a charity auction).

• Additional Fees:

• Knowledge/Innovation fee: AED 20.

• Plate Ownership certificate: AED 100.

• Lost plate replacement: AED 35 for a short plate, AED 50 for a long plate, and  AED 500 for a luxury plate in Dubai.

• Auction Specific Costs:

• Refundable Security Deposit: AED 25,000. 

• Non-Refundable Participation Fee: Around AED 120.

• VAT: 5% VAT applied to the final bid amount for successful bidders.

Note: The above-mentioned prices are subject to change with time and licensing authorities. Always confirm fees on official portals like www.rta.ae or Tamm for accuracy.

2025 Updates: What’s New?

The UAE license plate numbers have seen a few updates during this year, which primarily include:

• Sharjah’s New Plates: Launched in March 2025, these come with clearer fonts and more contrasting designs, aligning with the emirate's updated visual identity.

• Pilot Programs for Digital Plates: UAE authorities continue to test innovative digital plates that can send alert signals to authorities during accidents or tampering, significantly boosting road security and efficiency.

• More Streamlined & Faster Online Portals: Dubai RTA and Abu Dhabi Police are consistently rolling out updates to their online systems, offering faster and more efficient services for vehicle registration, number plate purchases, and related inquiries, enhancing user experience.

Tips for Choosing a Custom Plate

Knowing all the fundamentals of getting a custom UAE license plate number, implement the following expert tips while purchasing one to make your plate stand out.

• Consider Personal Significance, such as birthdays/anniversaries (1993, 2010), lucky numbers (7,8, 7777), Initials/Names (Numeric Representation— 8 for B or 7 for T).

• Opt for Visually Appealing Combinations (single-, double-, or triple-digit numbers), repeating numbers (77, 777, 999, 1111), sequential patterns (45678, 98765), matching vehicle model (63 for G Wagon, 488 for Ferrari 488).

• Factor in Investment Potential; choose any of the above-mentioned unique and visually appealing numbers.

• Set a Realistic Budget, especially during auctions. Make up your mind on a budget cap. If pricing goes higher, you bid no more.

• Utilize Online Portals and Auctions, subscribing to these platforms for early information on upcoming auctions. Research well about their regulations, and familiarize yourself with their online auction processes as well.

Conclusion

While getting a custom UAE license plate number is possible via direct or auction, you cannot use your name on the plate. The UAE’s strict licensing regulations only allow numeric plates, unlike some Western countries, for simplicity, cultural significance, and potential financial investments. Regardless, you can opt for several meaningful numbers through RTA, Abu Dhabi Police, or auctions, where plates like “AA 22”, “V 88”, and “G 150” spend significant amounts to stand out among the elite car enthusiasts.