Passenger Transport by Tourist Vehicles in Dubai – Rules & Permit Guide 2025

Tourism is one of Dubai’s most thriving sectors, and the transportation of passengers via tourist vehicles plays a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience. The activity, officially classified under Activity Code 4922007, falls under the Transport, Shipping, and Storage group and is licensed as a commercial activity. In this blog, we’ll explore how to start and operate a business in this sector, the regulations involved, licensing costs, and what it takes to succeed.

What Is Passenger Transport via Tourist Vehicles?

Passenger transport via tourist vehicles involves providing safe and comfortable travel experiences for tourists between key destinations like hotels, resorts, airports, heritage sites, and tourist landmarks within and outside the city. This includes specialized services such as open-top sightseeing buses, luxury coaches, and smaller tourist vans that enable immersive cultural and scenic experiences.

Legal Framework and Regulations

The activity is governed under Executive Council Resolution No. (107) of 2023 and Administrative Decision No. (97) of 2025. These regulations establish the legal foundation and executive guidelines for engaging in tourist transport within Dubai.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) are the key stakeholders in overseeing this activity. Permits are issued through the Commercial Transport Activities Department, and business owners are required to engage with several authorities both before and after obtaining their license.

Permit Requirements and Costs

Starting a passenger transport business via tourist vehicles in Dubai requires obtaining multiple permits, each associated with specific fees:

• Permit to conduct activity: AED 4,000
• Tourist vehicle permits:
  • Heavy vehicles: AED 1,500
  • Light vehicles: AED 700
  • Motorcycles: AED 500
  • Other types: AED 800
• Driver’s permit: AED 200 (issuance or renewal)
• Basic driver training: AED 1,000
• Supplementary training: AED 400
• Requalification training: AED 400

Administrative changes such as replacing lost permits or modifying activity details incur additional fees ranging from AED 200 to AED 500.

Conditions to Qualify for a Permit

To obtain a permit, businesses must meet several technical, legal, and operational requirements:

1. Fulfill commercial licensing standards by DET.
2. Satisfy technical specifications from the Director General.
3. Provide approved premises for conducting operations.
4. Employ a qualified manager with a “Tourism Expert” certificate, two years of management experience, and relevant training.
5. Maintain good conduct records for both owners and managers.
6. Provide an online presence (website, email, contact number).
7. Maintain a complaint and suggestion handling system.

Responsibilities and Compliance

Licensed establishments must:

• Link their internal systems with RTA’s electronic systems.
• Report any suspension of activity.
• Enter and maintain updated data on tourist vehicles and drivers.
• Comply with smart monitoring requirements.
• Display contact information on vehicles.
• Submit accurate tariff data to RTA.
• Install tracking devices in tourist vehicles.
• Avoid unauthorized commercial use or advertising on vehicles.
• Maintain records of trips and operational data for audit and inspection.

Vehicle Standards and Inspections

Tourist vehicles must:

• Meet technical and safety standards specified by RTA.
• Pass inspections and adhere to GCC and UAE vehicle laws.
• Be equipped for passenger safety and accessibility, including wheelchair lifts if designed for disabled use.

Driver Qualifications and Training

Drivers must:

• Hold a valid UAE driving license for the vehicle category.
• Be medically fit and of good character.
• Be officially employed by the business.
• Pass RTA-approved training and testing.
• Adhere to ongoing circulars and compliance protocols.

Permit Transfer and Concession

Permit holders can transfer (concede) their activity under certain conditions:

1. All dues and fines must be cleared.
2. The receiving business must pledge not to operate until approval.
3. The new holder must meet all licensing criteria.

Approval for permit transfer is typically granted within 3 business days upon submission of complete documentation.

How Beyond View Can Help You

Navigating the regulatory requirements and administrative procedures to get a tourist transport license in Dubai can be overwhelming. That’s where Beyond View comes in.

We handle the entire process on your behalf—from preparing the documentation, coordinating with RTA and DET, fulfilling technical compliance requirements, and managing training sessions to securing your commercial and driver permits. With our expertise, you avoid delays, missed steps, or regulatory pitfalls.

Instead of dealing with multiple departments, Beyond View becomes your single point of contact to get your business licensed quickly and compliantly. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Contact Beyond View today to start your passenger transport venture in Dubai the smart way.

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs

• The tourist transport sector in Dubai offers strong revenue potential due to the city’s global tourism appeal.
• Regulatory compliance is critical; meeting technical and legal conditions ensures smoother operations and renewals.
• Smart digital systems, transparent pricing, and a professional team enhance the company’s reputation and trust.
• Investment in training and vehicle standards pays off in terms of customer satisfaction and regulatory alignment.

Conclusion

Dubai’s thriving tourism sector creates strong demand for quality transport services. Starting a business in passenger transport via tourist vehicles can be rewarding if approached with compliance and customer experience in mind. From understanding RTA requirements to ensuring vehicle and driver standards, every detail matters.

For entrepreneurs looking to enter this space, professional support with licensing, setup, and compliance can streamline the process. With the right planning and guidance, you can build a reputable and successful tourist transport operation that supports Dubai’s vision of being a world-class destination.