Second-Hand Cars in the UAE 2025: What to Know Before You Buy

As more people are searching for cheap and reliable transportation, the UAE is becoming more convenient for residents to buy a second hand car as its markets are getting more in demand. The pre-owned car market is not only popular in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or other northern emirates, but offers countless affordable alternatives for all budgets. But picking the right vehicle requires awareness, patience and the ability to evaluate a car at the price of asking.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know before buying a used car in the UAE this year, from inspections to paperwork, red flags and trustworthy buying sources. It’s written to make you feel confident, informed, and ready to decide before making a decision.

Why Second-Hand Cars Are in High Demand in 2025

There are several reasons used car sales are growing in the U.S.

In the UAE, new cars become quickly depreciated, sometimes losing 20% to 30% in the first year.

Pre-owned cars are cheaper and easier to cover.

Many residents prefer to switch cars and the market has many options.

Resale value is still the most predominant Japanese automobile, such as Toyota, Nissan and Honda.

Dubizzle, Cars24, Al Futtaim Automall, and used car showrooms at Al Aweer Auto Market are growing busier. From daily commuter cars and SUVs to luxury vehicles, shoppers have easy access to all the latest cars, trucks and the latest SUVs.

1. Know Your Budget—and the Real Cost of Owning a Car

Few buyers will focus solely on asking price for the car. But the real cost includes other costs, like:

Yearly registration and vehicle testing

• Regular servicing
• Possible repairs:
• insurance premiums
• Fuel consumption
• Tyres, battery, and general wear-and-tear

A car that looks cheap before is expensive to maintain might end up costly to maintain. For example, a BMW or Mercedes might not cost 40,000 AED but could cost far more than Japanese models.

While buying the car, always keep an additional AED 1,500-3,000 for emergencies when you purchase the car.

Check the Car’s Official History Before Anything Else

A car has been involved in an accident or has done significant repairs with the UAE. This is available in government portals like:

• RTA (Dubai)
• MOI (Ministry of Interior)
• TAMM or ADDC in Abu Dhabi
• A vehicle history report tells you.
• Accident records.
• Odometer errors
• Number of previous owners
• All existing police or bank block

Whether it’s been a long time since it has been serviced.

A seller who refuses to share the VIN of a car is a warning sign.

Inspect the Car Carefully

Whether a car looks good in photos is not an issue but a physical inspection is necessary. Here are what to look for.

• Exterior
• Differences in paint color
• Misaligned doors or panels
• Rust spots

Cracks in headlights or taillights

The wearing of tires is well maintained and even wear means well maintained.

• Interior
• Air-conditioning quality
• Dashboard lights.
• Seat condition
• Window, mirror, and infotainment system
• Mechanical
• Brake response
• The induced stress
• Alignment

If you are interested in detailed inspection, visit a testing center like Tasjeel or Shamil, or a good garage.

Be Aware of Common Scams

While the UAE market is regulated, buyers need to be cautious. Examples are these hazards:

Odometer Tampering

Some sellers illegally lower mileage in order to increase value.

Concealed Accident Damage

Although highly damaged cars may be well repaired, the untrained eye may not know how to get an eye.

Import Issues

Cars imported from abroad may be in trouble, sometimes because of flood damage or past accidents.

Cash-Only Sellers

A seller who insists on cash and refuses bank transfers or proper documentation is a big red flag.

If the problem occurs, look for trusted showrooms, certified pre-owned programs, or trusted online outlets.

Compare Market Prices Before Negotiating

Before making an offer, research prices for similar models. Comparing prices helps you tell whether it is fair, overpriced, or suspiciously low.

The example here is.

An 2019 Toyota Corolla might be between AED 35,000 and 47,000 based on mileage and trim.

A 2017 Honda Civic typically sells for AED 30,000–42,000.

The 2018 Mitsubishi Pajero’s AED 60,000-80,000 price range can be adjusted to AED 60,000-80,000.

If a car is much cheaper, ask why. Low prices tend to indicate underlying problems.

6. Never Skip the Test Drive

Even a good test drive tells you more than the advertisement. Be mindful of the:

• Normal gear shifting
• Brake sensitivity
• Responses by direction
• Any weird sounds?
• Engine temperature
• Air-conditioning power
• Dashboard warnings

Test at low and high speeds. Drive straight roads, curves and rough spots. If the seller refuses to take a test drive, you can’t move, be afraid to walk away.

7. Check All Paperwork Carefully

Before moving on, make sure all documents are clean and exact.

• Registrar card (Mulkiya)
• Copy of Emirates ID and passport number from seller
• No outstanding fines.
• Bank loan clearance (if appropriate)
• Valid insurance for the transfer process
• New car test certificate

Transfers are done at Tasjeel, RTA stations, Al Shamil, ADNOC inspection stations, or TAMM centers from the emirate.

Choose the Right Insurance for Your Used Car

For second-hand cars, they tend to be cheaper. Or, you can choose between:

- Third-party insurance mandatory by law

- Comprehensive insurance (good for cars between 8 – 10 years old)

- Premiums depend upon the model, age and claim history.

Final Thoughts

In 2025 you can get a second hand car in the UAE, and it’s cheap, practical and good for anyone who needs reliable transportation without spending too much. But safe purchase needs understanding. Check the vehicle thoroughly, check it for defects, compare prices, and verify paperwork before settling with someone.

The UAE used car market has many great options, and looking carefully can find a reliable car that fits you and your budget. Being a new resident or buying a new ride in advance means that you’ll both be more secure and less likely to lose value over the long run.