$6.86 Million For Abu Dhabi Car Number Plate "5"

A UAE businessman yesterday paid Dh25.2 million ($6.86 million) for the car number plate “5” – a new world record price for a registration number. The proceeds will help traffic accident victims and people with special needs.

Talal Khoury handed over the amount for the Abu Dhabi plate at the emirate’s first auction of special car numbers. He intends to use the plate on his red Rolls-Royce.

The entire event raised a total of Dh76 million, all of which will go to good causes, said Major Suhail Al Khaili, Head of Abu Dhabi Police’s Vehicle Licencing Section.

Khoury, the 35-year-old Chief Executive Officer of Al Awael Holding, said: “Even if the price went up to Dh50m, I would have bought the plate without hesitation because the cause was so sublime.

“Although I am pleased and like the number, the real reason I paid this much to get the plate was because the proceeds will help rehabilitate people with special needs and those injured in accidents.

“Supporting these types of projects and helping integrate such people into society, is a social and patriotic duty. Those who can afford any amount should not hesitate to pay – helping others live as normal a life as possible.” The starting price for the plate was Dh100,000 and the figure swiftly climbed higher amid intense bidding from buyers.

The hammer finally fell after 20 minutes with Khoury, triumphant. He also bought four other plates at the sale – numbers 45, 55, 76 and 55555. Khoury already owns two very special Dubai plates – 45 and 55.

Al Khaili said 700 bidders from different countries took part in the auction for 41 special number plates.

“It was beyond expectations in terms of participant numbers and the money generated,” he added.

The event at the Emirates Palace Hotel was the first of a series of auctions.

The “5” plate number was the only single-digit on offer – others will go under the hammer at future sales. Also snapped up were six two-digit, 10 three-digit plates and 12 plates each of four digits and five digits.

“We announced the numbers available a month ago to give all parties a chance to bid,” said Al Khaili.

“The next auction is scheduled for June 5.

“Currently, bidders must attend the sales personally, but in the future buyers will be able to take part simultaneously via the internet.”

Read Also:
Dh25m Number Plate (Emirates Today)
Car plate auction raises Dh100m (Gulf News)

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