Can You Scrap a Car That’s Not in Your Name in the UAE?
- Jun 23
- 4 min read
Thinking of scrapping a vehicle in the UAE but it’s not registered under your name? This situation is more common than you might think. Whether it's a family car, an inherited vehicle, or a company car, scrapping a car that isn't registered in your name involves a few extra steps—but it's definitely possible.

In this blog, we'll explain the legalities, process, required documentation, and the best way to handle this situation in the UAE. If you're looking to scrap a car quickly and legally, Scrap My Car UAE is here to help make the process smooth and compliant.
Why Would You Need to Scrap a Car That Isn’t in Your Name?
Before diving into the process, let’s explore why someone might want to scrap a car that’s not in their name:
You’ve inherited a vehicle from a deceased relative.
You're helping a family member or friend who is abroad, ill, or unavailable.
You're managing a company vehicle that is no longer in use.
You bought a car but never transferred ownership, and now it’s too damaged or not worth registering.
No matter the situation, the UAE has clear rules in place to protect vehicle owners and prevent unauthorized disposal.
Is It Legal to Scrap a Car Not Registered in Your Name?
In short: No, you cannot legally scrap a car in the UAE without proof of ownership or legal authorization. The UAE government takes vehicle ownership seriously, and scrapping a vehicle without the proper documentation could result in legal complications for both the seller and the scrap yard.
That said, you can scrap the vehicle if you are authorised by the owner or have obtained the legal right to do so.
What You Need to Scrap Someone Else’s Car
To scrap a car that’s not in your name, you’ll need one of the following:
1. Power of Attorney (PoA)
A notarised and legal Power of Attorney from the registered owner gives you the right to act on their behalf. This document should specifically mention that you have permission to scrap, sell, or dispose of the vehicle.
What’s typically required:
Original PoA document (Arabic or legally translated)
Emirates ID copy of the car owner and the person authorised
Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
2. Death Certificate and Heirship Document
If the registered owner has passed away, the legal heir(s) need to submit:
Death certificate
Court-issued document proving legal heirs
Consent from all heirs or a nominated heir
Vehicle Mulkiya
Emirates ID copies of the involved parties
3. Company Authorisation Letter
If the car belongs to a company, you must provide:
Official company letterhead stating the vehicle is to be scrapped
Emirates ID copy of the authorised signatory
Trade license copy
Vehicle registration card
The Legal Process to Scrap a Car in the UAE
Whether or not the vehicle is in your name, the car must be deregistered at the RTA (or relevant emirate authority) before it is legally scrapped. Here’s a simplified version of the steps:
Visit the RTA with proper documentation
Fill out a vehicle deregistration form
Submit proof of identity and authority to act
Clear any fines or loan dues
Receive deregistration confirmation
Deliver the car and deregistration proof to a licensed scrap yard
👉 At Scrap My Car UAE, we assist customers with documentation, guide them through the RTA process, and ensure your experience is stress-free.
What If You Scrap the Car Without Ownership?
Attempting to scrap a car that isn’t in your name, without PoA or legal clearance, can lead to:
Legal penalties
Liability for the vehicle’s traffic fines or violations
Rejection by scrap yards or recycling centers
Criminal charges if fraud is suspected
Never attempt to bypass the ownership check. Reputable businesses like Scrap My Car UAE will not proceed without proper verification—and that protects you and everyone involved.
Tips to Make the Process Easier
✅ Gather All Documentation First
Start by collecting all the relevant documents—Emirates ID, car registration, PoA or company letters, and any supporting paperwork.
✅ Clear All Outstanding Fines
The vehicle must be free of fines, black points, and loans. Log into your RTA account or visit the service center to check.
✅ Work with a Trusted Scrap Car Buyer
Dealing with a professional, licensed service like Scrap My Car UAE ensures you’re following the law and won’t get scammed.
Why Choose Scrap My Car UAE?
We understand that the legal process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with a car that's not in your name. That’s why we offer full support to help you through it.
Here’s what we offer:
✅ Free car valuation
✅ Assistance with deregistration and paperwork
✅ Same-day pickup across the UAE
✅ Instant cash payment
✅ Licensed, eco-friendly scrapping process
We’ve helped hundreds of customers scrap vehicles they didn’t own directly—but with the right documents in hand. Whether it’s your father’s old SUV, a relative’s abandoned sedan, or a corporate fleet vehicle, we make the process hassle-free.
📞 Call or WhatsApp us at 055 745 83 22 🌐 Visit scrapmycaruae.com 📱 Follow us on Facebook: scrapmycarUAE
Final Thoughts
So, can you scrap a car that’s not in your name in the UAE? Yes—but only if you have the legal authority to do so. A Power of Attorney, company letter, or court-authorised heirship document is required to ensure the process complies with UAE regulations.
Trying to scrap a car without these can lead to serious legal trouble. Always deal with licensed and reputable scrap car buyers like Scrap My Car UAE to ensure everything is done properly.
Have a car to scrap that isn’t in your name? Let us handle the details. Just get in touch, and we’ll walk you through every step—quickly, legally, and efficiently.



