Can I Take an Abandoned Car in Dubai?

By Alice Nichols

Can I Take an Abandoned Car in Dubai?

If you’ve ever come across an abandoned car in Dubai, you may have wondered if it’s possible to take ownership of it. In this article, we’ll explore the regulations surrounding abandoned cars in Dubai and whether or not you can legally claim one for yourself.

Understanding the Definition of an Abandoned Car

Before we delve into the legality of taking an abandoned car in Dubai, it’s important to understand what constitutes an abandoned car. According to the laws in Dubai, a car is considered abandoned if it has been left unattended for a significant period of time on public property or private property without the owner’s permission.

The Role of Authorities

In Dubai, authorities take the issue of abandoned cars seriously. The responsibility of dealing with these vehicles lies with the Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

They play a crucial role in identifying and removing abandoned cars from public spaces.

The Process for Reporting an Abandoned Car

If you come across an abandoned car in Dubai, it’s important to report it to the relevant authorities. You can do this by contacting either the Dubai Police or RTA.

They will then take appropriate action to investigate the situation and determine if the car is indeed abandoned.

  • Gather Information: When reporting an abandoned car, provide as much information as possible such as its location, model, color, and license plate number.
  • Inspection: The authorities will inspect the vehicle to confirm its abandonment.
  • Notification: If deemed abandoned, a notification will be placed on the car giving the owner a specific period of time to claim it.
  • Removal: If the owner fails to claim the vehicle within the given timeframe, the authorities will arrange for its removal and impoundment.

Ownership of Abandoned Cars

Contrary to popular belief, you cannot simply take ownership of an abandoned car in Dubai. Once a car is deemed abandoned and impounded, the authorities will take further steps to determine its fate.

This can include auctioning off the vehicle or destroying it if it is deemed unfit for use.

Legal Consequences

It is important to note that attempting to take ownership of an abandoned car without following the proper legal procedures can lead to serious consequences. It is illegal and can result in fines or even criminal charges.

In Conclusion

While abandoned cars may seem like a tempting opportunity, it is crucial to remember that taking ownership of such vehicles in Dubai is not as simple as it may appear. The proper authorities need to be involved in order to ensure a fair and legal process.

Reporting any abandoned cars you come across is essential in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of Dubai’s public spaces.