A Mulkiya or a Vehicle Registration Card is an official document, proof of your car’s ownership. As a registered owner, along with your personal information, it also provides details about your car, including the license plate number, chassis number, and registration expiry date. It is required for:
- Traffic checks and renewals
- Selling or transferring your vehicle
- Renewing insurance or registration
- Import/export documentation
Therefore, losing your Mulkiya is a stressful experience. The good news is that the process of replacing it has become quick, simple, and digital in the UAE. Every emirate has a clear process for obtaining a duplicate Mulkiya. In most cases, you can receive a digital Mulkiya immediately, regardless of whether you lost it, it was stolen, or too damaged to read. Let's go through the complete guide, including where to apply, the necessary documents and costs, and how to receive the digital Mulkiya on your phone.
Where to Apply for a Duplicate Mulkiya?
The UAE offers several convenient options for applying for a duplicate Mulkiya, both online and in person. You must be aware of these, so you don't need to worry in case you have lost or damaged your vehicle’s Mulkiya.
1. Dubai: Roads & Transport Authority (RTA)
If you live in Dubai, you can apply for the card via:
- RTA Official Website
- Dubai Drive App (iOS & Android)
- RTA Customer Happiness Centers
- Vehicle service partners like Tasjeel and Shamil
These platforms are designed to make the process convenient. Mulkiya replacements are mostly issued digitally in a few minutes.
2. Abu Dhabi: TAMM Portal
Residents of Abu Dhabi can apply via:
- TAMM Website
- Abu Dhabi Traffic & Licensing Departments
You’ll have to log in using the UAE PASS, upload your documents, and pay the fees. TAMM will issue your digital registration card immediately.
3. Other Emirates: Ministry of Interior (MOI)
For vehicles registered in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain, apply via:
- MOI eServices Portal
- The emirate’s local police/licensing department
For those who prefer an in-person application, visiting the local traffic police department is a better option for you.
4. Authorized Service Centres
Use RTA-approved service centers, such as Tasjeel, Shamil, and Wasel, if you prefer direct assistance. These centres can process your request, collect your documents, and even manage your new card’s delivery.
Note: If you also need to replace the lost car number plate, the same portals, i.e., RTA, TAMM, and MOI, make that process equally smooth.
Documents Required to Replace a Lost Mulkiya
To start an application, specific documents are required. Keeping the documents ready helps streamline the process. You need:
- Valid Emirates ID
- Registration Card
- Copy of Establishment license (for company-owned vehicles only)
If you want to save your time during the process, take clear pictures or scans of all documents before starting an online application. Blur uploads or mismatched details can lead to delays or rejections.
Step-by-Step Process to Replace a Lost Mulkiya
Replacing a lost Mulkiya in the UAE is a simple yet practical procedure. If you follow the steps in the right order, obtaining your vehicle registration card becomes easier. Let's simply break it down:
Step 1: Log in to the Relevant Platform
Visit the relevant portal for your emirate:
- RTA for Dubai
- TAMM for Abu Dhabi
- MOI for other Emirates
Enter your Emirates ID or UAE Pass credentials to log in. With this one digital ID, your name and Emirates ID will automatically match all government records.
Step 2: Select the Service
Choose the option that says “Replacement of Lost/Damaged Vehicle Registration Card”.
You have to confirm that all your vehicle details (chassis number, plate, and expiry) shown on the screen are correct.
Step 4: Submit the Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of the Emirates ID, police report, and trade license (for company vehicle). Ensure that the images are clear and under the file size limit shown on the website. You will have to provide hard copies for applications submitted in person.
Step 4: Pay the Service Fee
The fees depend on your emirate, but generally range between AED 70–300. You’ll be prompted to pay the replacement fee online via debit or credit card.
Once successful, you’ll receive an SMS or email confirmation with your transaction ID. Payment is quick and safe.
Step 5: Get Your Digital Mulkiya
You will immediately receive your “digital Mulkiya or e-Mulkiya” through email or the RTA app after your application is accepted. Authorities throughout the UAE have accepted the validity of this digital copy. So, you can continue driving without interruption.
Step 6: Request a Physical Card (Optional)
You can ask for a physical Mulkiya to be sent by courier to your house or place of business if you still prefer a hard copy. Delivery typically takes 1-3 working days for a Mulkiya, depending on the emirate.
To ensure a smooth process, carefully complete each of these steps. Then, the vehicle ownership card (Mulkiya) for your car will be accessible on your phone.
Replacement Fees and Processing Time
The following chart displays the regular fees and processing time for Mulkiya replacement in each emirate.
| Emirate | Typical Fee | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai (RTA) | AED 70 (including knowledge & innovation fees) | Instantly (digital) | Physical card optional via courier |
| Abu Dhabi (TAMM) | Upto AED 300 | Same day | Online or in-person |
| Other Emirates (MOI) | The fees varies by emirate | Same day to 1–2 working days | Confirm the exact fee before applying |
Additional Knowledge and Innovation fees may apply in some emirates, typically AED 20 in Dubai. Plus, delivery cost may also add up depending on the emirate and provider.
Note: The fee information is correct at the time of publication, but it may change over time.
Important Notes and Conditions
The following are some most important notes and conditions to apply for the replacement of a lost Mulkiya:
- Any issues with the final product can be raised to RTA within 2 working days of receiving the final product. After this time, the transaction will be considered finalized.
- You will receive the new registration card by courier or collect it from an RTA office at your time of preference.
- For courier delivery, the courier will make three attempts to deliver the certificate. If they are unsuccessful, you will pick up the certificate at RTA's offices.
- All traffic fines must be paid before applying for a duplicate Mulkiya.
By taking care of all these important points, you can save time and effort during the whole process.
How to Get a Digital Mulkiya on Your Phone?
The UAE's shift towards digitalization has made it possible for your new Mulkiya to exist entirely on your phone, eliminating the need for paper. The process is simple and takes a few minutes to complete.
Here's how to access it on your phone:
- Download the Dubai Drive App (for RTA users) or use UAE Pass (for other emirates).
- Use your UAE Pass or Emirates ID to log in.
- Go to "My Documents" → "Mulkiya (Vehicle Registration Card)."
- Save or screenshot your digital Mulkiya. It’s a valid proof of ownership anywhere in the UAE.
The digital version of Mulkiya is really convenient for daily use because it is accepted by registration centers, insurance companies, and traffic police. Advantages include:
- 24/7 access anywhere, even without the internet, once downloaded.
- Instant updates when you renew or modify vehicle details.
- No risk of losing or damaging your vehicle ownership card again.
Anywhere in the UAE, the digital Mulkiya is equally valid and widely accepted as the physical card.
Conclusion
Now, in 2026, losing your Mulkiya or vehicle ownership card doesn't have to be a headache. In the UAE, one can apply for a Mulkiya replacement because of its online systems with just a few clicks and no waiting in line. The process is fast, safe, and made to keep you driving legally regardless of whether you reside in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other emirate.
Always keep a digital copy of your Mulkiya on your phone. You should also renew your car insurance and registration on time. Additionally, you can easily replace your lost car number plate during the same visit if it is also lost. You will never have to worry about losing your proof of ownership again if you stay organized, and you'll always be ready to hit the road with confidence.
Disclaimer: All information, including pricing, vehicle details, and legal requirements, is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change due to market conditions or policy updates. While First Choice Cars makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, we hold no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or outdated content. We recommend contacting our team directly to confirm the latest details before making any decisions.