
Key Requirements for Obtaining the Permit
How to Obtain a Tourist Vehicle Permit in Dubai – Complete Guide 2025
Dubai’s tourism industry is booming, and so is the demand for safe, regulated, and premium transport services for tourists. If you’re a company or entrepreneur planning to offer passenger transport services to tourists in Dubai, obtaining a Tourist Vehicle Permit from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is mandatory. This guide will walk you through the process, requirements, and important considerations for securing your permit in 2025.
Who Needs a Tourist Vehicle Permit?
This permit is required by:
- Tourism companies providing passenger transport
- Travel agencies offering airport and hotel transfers
- Operators of sightseeing or tour services
- Any business transporting tourists within or outside Dubai in private vehicles
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, the applicant must:
- Hold a valid trade license with relevant tourism activity
- Operate in compliance with RTA standards
- Use vehicles that meet RTA-approved specifications for tourist transport
Documents Required
Prepare the following documents for submission:
- Trade license copy with relevant activity (e.g., “Inbound Tourism Services”)
- Emirates ID and passport copy of the authorized signatory
- Vehicle ownership documents or leasing contracts
- Insurance documents covering vehicles and passengers
- Feasibility study or business plan (may be requested)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Dubai Tourism (if applicable)
Application Process
- Initial Submission: Submit an application via the RTA portal or service center.
- Document Review: RTA verifies documents and assesses vehicle compliance.
- Inspection (if required): Vehicle(s) may undergo a quality and safety inspection.
- Fee Payment: Pay permit issuance and vehicle-related fees.
- Permit Issuance: Receive your official Tourist Vehicle Permit with validity up to one year (renewable).
Permit Scope and Usage
Once approved, the permit allows:
- Passenger transportation from airports, hotels, and tourist destinations
- Intercity tourist transfers
- Sightseeing and guided tours
- Vehicle branding in compliance with RTA rules
Renewal and Compliance
- Permits must be renewed annually
- Maintain regular vehicle inspections and insurance
- Adhere to all RTA and Dubai Tourism safety and operational regulations
- Violations or non-compliance may result in fines or permit cancellation
Benefits of Getting Licensed
✅ Legal authorization to operate
✅ Increased customer trust
✅ Access to airport and hotel pick-up points
✅ Opportunity to partner with tour operators and hotels
✅ Eligibility for larger contracts and government tenders
Obtaining a Tourist Vehicle Permit in Dubai is essential for operating a professional and legal tourist transport service in 2025. The process is streamlined but demands careful documentation and strict compliance with RTA regulations. Get started today to tap into Dubai’s thriving tourism sector.