Gulf Today Report
A unique British number plate which reads “UAE 50” is creating a sensation and appears all set to sell for a record price. As the UAE celebrates the 50th anniversary of its formation in 1971, a distinctive car registration in the UK reading “UAE 50” has been making headlines and attracting much interest from investors, collectors and enthusiasts. It is up for grabs for what is expected to be a record sum. The plate is owned by a private British collector.
UAE-based motoring historian and author Mohammed Luqman Ali Khan who has seen the number plate and the documents said: "UAE 50 is a very special number plate and this is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a historic British number plate. The timing of its surfacing assumes significance as the UAE is celebrating its golden jubilee which has been declared as 'Year of the 50th.' It would be wonderful to see someone from the UAE acquire this truly remarkable plate, very aptly in this landmark year of the golden jubilee and Dubai Expo 2020."
Commenting on the number plate, Nicholas Young author of "Car Number Classics" — the definitive book on the history of British number plates said: 'The UAE 50 number plate dates back to 1955 when it was first issued in January of that year by Bristol County Borough Council."
Prices of desirable and bespoke number plates have been rising exponentially; astute investors see them as wise investments that continually increase in value.
Demand for unique vehicle registration numbers has been soaring, thanks largely to the super-rich for whom money is no object.
They seek bespoke plates that complement their personalities and their million-dollar cars. And what better a place for them to flaunt their cherished plates, than the swanky streets of central London - playground of billionaires.
Britain continues to be the favourite work and holiday destination for UAE nationals and residents, with many having homes and offices there. These frequent travellers are accustomed to shipping their supercars and sports cars to the UK, and a bespoke UK number plate is a highly desirable accessory to enhance the look of their high-end cars and to make the ultimate style statement. While the UAE holds several world records when it comes to number plate prices, the UK is not far behind with deep-pocketed collectors chasing fancy number plates.
A study of recent trends and spending patterns points towards a burgeoning market with an ever-increasing appetite for special number plates. Giving fillip to this growing movement is UK's interesting policy that allows the owner to retain a private number plate on a certificate, much like a souvenir, in case they do not intend to immediately use it on a vehicle. The “UAE 50” number plate will be sold on www.specialnumberplates.com