The Real Cost of Owning a Car in Dubai – Fees, Fuel & More
Owning a car in Dubai offers freedom—but comes with noteworthy expenses. From registration and Salik tolls to insurance, fuel, and depreciation, these costs can add up fast. This detailed guide helps you understand what you're signing up for in 2026.
1. Fixed & One-Time Costs
- Registration & Renewal Fees: Initial registration runs between AED 420–600. Annual renewal, inspection, courier, and late-penalties cost around AED 380–600. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- License Plate: Standard plates cost AED 35, premium ones range up to AED 4,500. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Salik Toll Tag: A one-time AED 100–120 purchase, with AED 4 per gate crossing. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
2. Insurance
Comprehensive insurance for a mid-range vehicle generally costs AED 2,500–5,000 per year, depending on vehicle value and coverage level. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
3. Fuel & Energy Costs
Fuel remains relatively affordable in 2025–2026, ranging between AED 2.15 and 3.05 per litre. Economy sedans may spend AED 150–400/month; SUVs can range up to AED 900/month. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
4. Maintenance & Servicing
- Oil changes, brake services, and minor repairs cost AED 350–500 per service, typically twice a year. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Annual servicing totals:
- • Economy cars: AED 1,000–3,000
• Mid-range: AED 3,500–8,000
• Luxury/performance: AED 15,000–50,000+ :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
5. Parking & Fines
Monthly parking—particularly in traffic-heavy areas—ranges from AED 350–1,000. Annual fines (e.g., expired registration, traffic violations) often cost AED 500–2,000. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
6. Depreciation
Depreciation is significant, ranging from AED 8,000/year for economy cars, AED 13,000 for SUVs, and upwards of AED 50,000 for luxury vehicles. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
7. Estimated Monthly & Annual Car Ownership Costs
| Vehicle Type | Monthly Cost (AED) | Annual Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Car | 1,200–2,500 | 15,000–20,000 |
| SUV | 2,000–4,500 | 24,000–40,000 |
| Luxury Car | 6,000–10,000+ | 80,000+ |
These figures include insurance, fuel, maintenance, tolls, parking, and depreciation. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
8. Real Resident Insights
Some Dubai residents report annual expenses of around AED 9,400—about AED 940/month—including fuel, maintenance, Salik, parking, and insurance:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. Another user shared paying AED 1,200–1,500 monthly for Salik, parking, and fuel alone:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
9. Tips to Reduce Ownership Costs
- Opt for fuel-efficient models like Toyota or Honda to cut fuel and repair costs. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Compare insurance quotes; consider telematics-based discounts. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Use fuel discount apps (ENOC/EPPCO) and minimize Salik tolls when possible. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Maintain regular services to prevent costly repairs. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Choose locations near transit hubs to reduce parking and fuel use. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Dubai car ownership offers unmatched convenience—but it comes at a cost. Depending on car type and lifestyle, annual expenses can range from AED 15,000 to well over AED 80,000. Smart choices, from vehicle selection to maintenance and routing, can keep costs manageable while letting you enjoy the road.