Vehicle Deregistration Rules You Must Know Before Scrapping Your Car in the UAE
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Scrapping a car in the UAE is not as simple as handing over the keys and collecting cash. One of the most important legal steps is vehicle deregistration in UAE. Without proper deregistration, you could remain legally responsible for the vehicle—even after it leaves your possession.
In this complete guide, Scrap My Car UAE explains everything you need to know about vehicle deregistration before scrapping your car, including required documents, procedures, and common mistakes to avoid.

Why Vehicle Deregistration in UAE Is Mandatory
The UAE government has strict regulations to prevent:
Illegal resale of scrap vehicles
Abandoned cars in residential areas
Environmental violations
Fraudulent transfer of ownership
Continued liability for traffic fines
If you fail to complete vehicle deregistration in UAE, you may still be liable for:
Traffic fines
Salik charges
Accidents involving the vehicle
Legal penalties
That’s why deregistration is the first and most important step before scrapping.
Where to Complete Vehicle Deregistration in UAE
The process varies slightly depending on your emirate:
Dubai
Deregister through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
Submit number plates
Provide Mulkiya (vehicle registration card)
Clear all fines, loans, and Salik balances
Receive official deregistration certificate
Sharjah
Deregister through Sharjah Police or MOI service centers
Return vehicle plates
Submit registration card
Clear outstanding fines
Other emirates follow similar procedures through their local traffic departments.
✅ Important: A car cannot be legally scrapped without an official deregistration certificate.
Documents Required for Vehicle Deregistration in UAE
Before scrapping your car, prepare the following:
Emirates ID
Original vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
Number plates
Clearance of all traffic fines
Bank clearance letter (if under loan)
Power of Attorney (if someone else handles the process)
If documents are missing, Scrap My Car UAE can guide you on legal alternatives and next steps.
What Happens If You Skip Deregistration?
Skipping vehicle deregistration in UAE can result in:
Continued ownership under your name
Legal liability if the car is misused
Difficulty registering another vehicle
Government penalties
Insurance complications
Many car owners assume handing over the car is enough—but without official deregistration, you are still legally responsible.
Can You Scrap a Car with Expired Registration?
Yes. Vehicle deregistration in UAE is still possible even if:
The registration has expired
The car is damaged
The vehicle is non-functional
However, fines must be cleared before deregistration is approved.
If your Mulkiya is lost, you may need:
A police report
Additional verification
We assist customers with these cases every day.
Insurance and Salik After Deregistration
After completing vehicle deregistration in UAE:
Cancel your insurance policy (you may receive a refund).
Remove and deactivate your Salik tag.
Clear any pending toll balances.
These steps ensure there are no hidden financial liabilities.
Why Licensed Scrap Dealers Matter
Once deregistration is complete, the vehicle must be handed to a licensed scrap buyer.
Using unlicensed buyers can lead to:
Illegal resale of your vehicle
Fraudulent activity
Missing scrapping certificate
Future legal trouble
Scrap My Car UAE works exclusively with authorized scrap yards and government-approved recycling facilities, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations.
Importance of the Scrapping Certificate
After the vehicle is dismantled, you must receive a scrapping certificate. This document proves:
The car is permanently removed from circulation
The vehicle was disposed of legally
You are no longer liable
Never scrap a vehicle without collecting this certificate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Risk |
Skipping deregistration | Legal penalties |
Using unlicensed scrap buyers | Fraud risk |
Not clearing fines | Process rejection |
Forgetting insurance cancellation | Financial loss |
Not collecting scrapping certificate | Future liability |
Avoid these issues by working with professionals.
How Scrap My Car UAE Makes It Easy
At Scrap My Car UAE, we simplify the entire vehicle deregistration in UAE process.
Our Services Include:
✅ Free vehicle evaluation✅ Guidance on deregistration procedures✅ Licensed scrap yard partnerships✅ Free pickup anywhere in the UAE✅ Instant cash payment✅ Official scrapping certificate
We ensure your vehicle is scrapped legally, safely, and profitably.
Final Thoughts
Understanding vehicle deregistration in UAE is essential before scrapping your car. It protects you from fines, liability, and legal complications while ensuring your vehicle is disposed of responsibly.
If your car is old, damaged, or no longer worth repairing, don’t take risks with unofficial buyers.
📞 Call or WhatsApp: 055 745 83 22
🌐 Visit: scrapmycaruae.com
Scrap My Car UAE – Fast, Legal, and Hassle-Free Car Scrapping Across the UAE.



