Dubai Number Plate “BB 12” Sells for AED 9.66 Million at Auction, Setting a New Record

In Dubai, the number plate “BB 12” recently sold at auction for an astonishing AED 9.66 million. 

With that result, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) set a new auction record, once again proving that exclusive number plates in the UAE are treated as true status symbols. This article explains what happened behind the scenes, why Dubai’s VIP plates attract global attention, and how these auctions work in practice.

The Record Auction: 

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) held its 120th public number plate auction on 27 December 2025. Ahead of the event, the RTA announced 90 premium plates, including highly sought-after combinations such as AA 25, BB 12, and BB 30.

The outcome exceeded expectations. Total proceeds reached AED 109.03 million, the highest total ever recorded for an RTA plate auction. The star lot was “BB 12”, which sold for AED 9.66 million, making it the most expensive plate of the evening.

- AA 25: AED 8.04 million

- BB 30: AED 6.74 million

- CC 100: AED 4.21 million

Bids are typically subject to VAT (commonly referenced as 5% in the UAE for taxable supplies). The scale of these figures underlines how strong demand remains for distinctive number plates in Dubai, and how “BB 12” crowned the market’s momentum in a single night.

In the UAE, distinctive car plates have been highly desirable for years. The simplest rule is also the most important: the shorter and lower the number, the higher the perceived value and prestige.

A low-digit plate or a memorable letter-and-number combination instantly stands out. In a city filled with high-end vehicles, a rare plate becomes the ultimate accessory. Distinctive number plates are widely viewed as status symbols in the UAE, signaling success and social standing at a glance.

Collecting and personal meaning

Some buyers pursue “lucky numbers,” initials, or combinations that carry personal identity or brand value.

Investment and resale potential

Certain buyers expect rare plates to appreciate, aiming to resell later at a premium, especially for low-digit or iconic combinations. International bidders also participate, as Dubai auctions attract attention well beyond the region.

Dubai’s VIP Plate Culture and Global Records

Dubai has repeatedly made headlines with plate auction records. For example, “P7” reportedly sold in 2023 for around AED 55 million, frequently cited as a global record for the world’s most expensive number plate. Earlier, Abu Dhabi’s plate “1” was widely reported to have sold in 2008 for roughly AED 52 million. These landmark results highlight the cultural significance of VIP plates across the UAE: they function as highly visible symbols of wealth, achievement, and exclusivity.

The RTA runs public auctions several times per year, offering premium number plates through a structured process designed to be transparent and regulated.

Eligibility and registration

To participate, bidders typically need a Dubai “Traffic File” (a vehicle traffic registration file) and must register in advance.

Registration is commonly completed online via RTA channels or through RTA service centers.

Common requirements often include:

- A refundable security deposit (often referenced as AED 25,000 via manager’s cheque)

- A non-refundable participation fee (often referenced around AED 120)

- Auction participation

On the day of the auction, bidding may be available in-person and, for some auctions, through online channels, depending on the RTA’s format for that event. The highest bid wins, and payment is generally due within the specified settlement window set by the organizer.

The 27 December 2025 auction was reported as being hosted at the Hilton Al Habtoor City, reflecting the premium, formal atmosphere these auctions often carry. The RTA acts as the neutral organizer, overseeing bidding procedures and documentation to maintain market trust.

Proceeds typically support public sector objectives and can be linked to transport and infrastructure development. This “public benefit” angle is one reason the events receive strong institutional support and media coverage.

Given sustained demand and Dubai’s ongoing appetite for exclusivity, it is likely only a matter of time before another major record is challenged.

What is the most expensive number plate in Dubai?

“P7” is widely reported as the most expensive Dubai plate and one of the most expensive worldwide, sold in 2023 for around AED 55 million at a high-profile auction. Earlier, Abu Dhabi’s “1” was widely reported at roughly AED 52 million in 2008. These top results are often tied to special events and, in some cases, charity initiatives.

In general, you need a Dubai Traffic File and must register before the auction. Registration commonly includes providing a refundable security deposit (often reported as AED 25,000) and paying a non-refundable participation fee (often reported around AED 120). Once approved, you receive bidding access (such as a bidder number or card). You can then bid in the auction (in-person and/or online depending on the format). If you do not win, the deposit is typically returned according to the organizer’s process.

Prices are driven by prestige, rarity, and cultural demand. Short plates, low numbers, and highly recognizable combinations are limited in supply but heavily demanded by high-net-worth buyers. In Dubai’s luxury car culture, a rare plate can be more visible than the car itself. Emotional drivers (lucky numbers, identity, branding) and investment expectations (resale value) further intensify bidding competition.

In Dubai, the number plate “BB 12” recently sold at auction for an astonishing AED 9.66 million.