Selling a Car With a Lost Mulkiya or Only One Key in Dubai

Lost the mulkiya (registration card)

• Check the RTA Dubai app or the Dubai Drive app: the vehicle licence is usually there in digital form
• If you need a physical card, a replacement can be requested through the RTA
• The transfer itself is done against the registered owner's Emirates ID and the RTA's records, not the plastic card
• Tell the buyer upfront so nobody is surprised on the day

Only one key

Most cars come with two keys, and buyers expect both. A missing key does not stop the sale, but a dealer will deduct roughly what it costs to cut and program a replacement, which varies a lot by make: modest for most mainstream cars, much more for some luxury models with smart keys. Look through drawers and old bags first. A spare key often turns up.

Lost both keys

The car can still be sold, but it cannot be driven to the buyer, so it has to be collected and a new key made. Expect a bigger deduction. Send photos and the details, and say that there is no key, and we will price it as it is and arrange collection.

Other papers people lose

• Service book: not required for the sale, but service history adds value, so ask the dealer that serviced it for a printout
• Purchase documents: not needed, the RTA record is what counts
• Loan clearance letter: if the car was financed, ask the bank for a copy. If the car has a bank loan, it must be cleared with your bank first: pay it off, get the clearance letter and the mortgage release, and then the car can be sold like any other.

When you sell to Carology you get one firm offer with no hidden deductions, you are paid by bank transfer or cash before you leave, and we complete the RTA transfer. The valuation is free and there is no obligation.