How to register for auctions

Elite licence plates are available to all nationalities and the best place to start is online. Emirates Auction in Abu Dhabi and the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai both have helpful websites. At Emirates Auction, the home page features an "auction alert", in which you will receive an e-mail and phone call when the next sale is being held. You can even request a notification if a particular number plate is coming up.

Before any auction, the first step is to register, which can also be done online. You must be at least 18 years old and a security deposit of Dh5,000 is required. If you don't buy a plate at auction, this deposit will be refunded within 21 working days. The RTA has similar requirements. In addition to live events, online auctions are common for both government organisations. In fact, the next online event will be taking place on the RTA website on October 22 and will run for seven days. Registration, login information and product listings are all available online. At Emirates Auction, tech-savvy investors can join the website's mobile portal and bid using their smartphones.

Buyers should note, however, that the more exclusive and valuable plates are often reserved for the physical auctions. Payment can be done online, in person by cash or cheque or through a bank transfer, and is generally expected within three working days. An ownership certificate from Emirates Auction can be requested for each plate by calling 600 545454 or by sending an e-mail to [e-mail].

The certificate will be issued in the registered name and is subject to a Dh100 fee. * Jeffrey Todd