Scrap Car Laws in Dubai: What Every Owner Should Know in 2025
- Sep 12
- 4 min read
Scrapping a vehicle isn’t just about trading an old car for cash. In Dubai, legal, environmental, and safety regulations are increasingly playing a role. As of 2025, knowing the rules can help you avoid fines, delays, or legal complications—and get the best value when you scrap your car. Here’s what every owner should know.
Why the Regulations Matter More Than Ever
Dubai Municipality and the relevant authorities are cracking down on abandoned, non-running, or dirty vehicles in public or visible spaces. Fines, towing, impounding, even auctions are on the table. Gulf News+2Gulf News+2
Environmental concerns are higher, so disposing of vehicles responsibly (fluids, hazardous components) is not just “good practice” but increasingly regulated.
Also, age and condition regulations are tightening. Older, high-pollution vehicles may face restrictions on registration renewal or may be flagged for scrapping. Gulf News+1
Key Laws & Regulations in 2025
Below are the main legal & procedural points that car owners should mind before scrapping a car in Dubai.
Regulation | What It Means for Owners |
Fines for abandoned or dirty vehicles | Vehicles left unattended, dirty, or non-roadworthy in public spaces may receive a Dh 500 fine. Owners are typically given ~15 days to clean or remove the vehicle. If they fail, the vehicle can be towed to a municipal yard. Gulf News+2Yallamotor.com+2 |
Removal & Impoundment | After notice (sticker / warning), vehicles not cleaned or collected are impounded. They may be held for up to six months. If unclaimed, they can be auctioned. Gulf News+1 |
Law No. (23) of 2015 – Disposition of Impounded Vehicles | Sets out that impounded vehicles can be disposed of (i.e. sold by public auction) after 3 months from impoundment. Owners & creditors are notified. Dubai Land Department |
Vehicle Age Limits / Registration Renewal Restrictions | From December 2025, vehicles 20 years or older will not be eligible for registration renewal in Dubai. If their registration expires before Dec 1, 2025, they can be renewed for one more year only. Gulf News |
Extension of Lifespan for Rental Vehicles | For car rental companies, rules exist requiring replacement of manual vehicles after 4 years, electric ones after 6 years from manufacturing. There is a process to apply for extensions if they pass required inspections. Gulf Press+1 |
The Scrapping Process: What You Need to Do
To comply with laws and make the process smooth, here are the steps and documents you’ll need.
Deregister the VehicleBefore scrapping, the vehicle must be deregistered with the RTA (or relevant traffic authority). You will need to clear any outstanding fines or fees.
Provide Proof of OwnershipYou’ll need your Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya), Emirates ID, and possibly passport copy. If the Mulkiya is lost, replace it. Only the legal owner, or someone with a power of attorney, can proceed legally.
Choose a Licensed ScrapyardUse an RTA‐approved/licensed scrap yard or service. They should provide a scrapping certificate/document to confirm the vehicle has been disposed of legally.
Handle Insurance / Other ObligationsCancel or update your car insurance, clear any unpaid tolls (Salik) or other obligations so you’re not liable after scrapping.
Environmental ComplianceEnsure fluids (oil, coolant, transmission fluids, etc.) are drained/disposed properly. Hazardous parts (batteries, etc.) need special handling. Licensed yards will follow these standards.
Receive Certificate of Scrapping / DeregistrationAfter the vehicle is delivered, inspected and accepted by the scrap yard, you should get official proof (certificate) that the car is deregistered/scrapped. This protects you from future claims/fines.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Skipping deregistration: Without this, you may still be liable for fines, registration fees, or insurance claims even after the car is “gone.”
Using unlicensed scrap dealers: May lead to improper environmental compliance, lack of proof of scrapping → legal risks.
Outstanding fines/tolls / plate issues: Authorities often won’t let you deregister until all associated liabilities are cleared.
Modifications: If car has unauthorized modifications, there could be extra scrutiny or fines. Make sure any major modifications are disclosed and legal.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Rules?
Fines (Dh 500 or more) for dirty, abandoned, non‐roadworthy cars. Gulf News+2Gulf News+2
Cars may be impounded and moved to scrapyards by the municipality. Gulf News+1
After impoundment, if unclaimed, vehicles can be sold via public auction. Dubai Land Department+1
Inability to renew registration if the vehicle is very old. Gulf News
How Scrap My Car UAE Helps You Comply & Benefit
At Scrap My Car UAE, our goal is to make scrapping your vehicle as seamless, legal, and beneficial as possible:
We help you check all required documents (Mulkiya, IDs, fines etc.) so you don’t hit roadblocks.
We work only with licensed scrapyards or service providers so you get valid scrapping certificates.
We offer fair valuation, based on condition and current scrap metal / parts market in Dubai.
Your Action Checklist If You’re Thinking of Scrapping
✅ Check the age of your vehicle; see if it's approaching 20 years.
✅ Clear up any outstanding dues, registrations, or traffic fines.
✅ Gather your Mulkiya, ID, passport, power of attorney (if needed).
✅ Decide whether you want to scrap immediately or explore resale for parts (if still valuable).
✅ Choose a licensed and respected scrap service and get a quote.
Conclusion
Scrapping a car in Dubai in 2025 isn’t just about disposing of something old—it’s about doing it legally, safely, and profitably. With tightened regulations, increasing environmental concern, and new age limits, now is a smart time to act if your vehicle is reaching the end of its useful life.
If you’re ready to scrap your car, or want to find out what your car is worth, Scrap My Car UAE is here to guide you through each step—no surprises, no hidden costs.
