Car registration is mandatory in the UAE. Luckily, when you buy a new car, the deal likely has provided the registration for the first year. However, following this you will need to renew the registration each year. The same goes for buying second hand cars, when the registration expires, you will have to renew it yourself. Renewal should be completed before expiry, otherwise you will be subject to a fine of AED 400.
Renewing your car registration in the UAE is easy. There are many physical locations where you can visit and renew. What most people don't know however, is that sometimes your insurer will provide this service for you.
You should compare this feature when looking for insurance providers. They will organise for someone to collect your car, bring it to the registration and return it when it's finished. All you have to do is pay the RTA standard fees.
RTA or Roads and Transport Authority is the major independent government authority. The RTA is responsible for providing the transport system in Dubai, but also between Dubai and other Emirates. The RTA also handle the registration of all vehicles and renewal of registration.