If you have purchased a new vehicle, you do not have to worry about registration, as the dealer will handle all the formalities. Please note that as per a Federal decision, cars that are at least 20 years old (1988 models or before) can no longer be registered from January 2009. The following year, from January 2010,  the law stipulates that cars that are at least 15 years old (1993 or before) can no longer be registered. See media update.

Criteria

For registration of used car, buyer (must be resident of Dubai) & seller must be present. In case, the seller is not present, a sale deed letter from an authorized showroom or dealer is required. If the vehicle is from another emirate, the vehicle registration should have been cancelled there.

You can also check online at the Dubai Police website for any outstanding fines, which the seller should pay, before you register the car in your name.

Documents Required

1. Passport (original + copy) or Dubai driving license (original).
2. Insurance Policy (you may be able to transfer the old policy; if not, get a new one)
3. If the car is financed through a bank, take the proper documents, including ‘No Objection Letter’, if applicable.
4. Old registration card (if the registration is expired, the car should be tested at the Traffic Department or at Tasjeel Eppco or Emarat Shamil or Wasel Car Testing)
5. Original license plates

Procedure:

1. Go to Dubai Traffic Department or to Tasjeel Eppco or Emarat Shamil or Wasel Car Testing
2. Fill in the form & pay the fees.
3. Settle the payment of fines, if any, by the seller; the officer will check & confirm this.
4. Wait for your name to be called out and in a few minutes, collect your new registration card , valid for one year.
5. Get new plates affixed to vehicle.
6. Send copies of registration card to your finance & insurance company.

Fees:

Car test        Dhs 50 

                    Dhs 420 (short number plates)

                    Dhs 470 (long number plates)

Source: www.dubai.ae