With The Eid Al Fitr long weekend just around the corner, I know most of you will definitely have some sort of plan to leave UAE in one way or the other. But if any of those plans include an out-of-UAE road trip, you’re going to want to read this very carefully first. There is one crucial document you need before hitting the road – the ‘Tourist Vehicle Certificate’. Whether you’re a UAE citizen, GCC national, or resident, this certificate ensures your vehicle meets safety and regulatory standards, allowing you to travel hassle-free across the GCC. Keep reading to get all the important details you need to know.

Also read: UAE Eid Al Fitr Public Holiday Predicted To Be 5-Day Long Weekend

First Things First – Get Your International Driving License In Order

If the Tourist Vehicle Certificate already sounded like a lot, there’s still one more crucial document that you’ll need – an International Driving License (IDL). For you to legally drive in any of the GCC countries, you’ll have to first obtain your IDL. So, make sure you or whoever is planning on driving the car for the road trip has that in order first before you start finalising any plans.

What Documents Do You Need For The Tourist Vehicle Certificate?

To get your certificate, you’ll need to provide the following documents, depending on your status. Light Vehicles and motorcycles cost just AED 100 and the certificate is valid for six months, so if you’re a frequent traveler, you won’t have to reapply too often. Here are the documents you’ll need:

For UAE Citizens & GCC Nationals:

• If your vehicle is mortgaged, get an eNOC from the mortgagor
• Original Emirates ID
• eNOC from the ATCUAE, unless you’re a citizen or GCC national traveling within GCC countries

For UAE Residents:

• If your vehicle is mortgaged, get an eNOC from the mortgagor
• eNOC from the ATCUAE

For Companies:

• Memorandum of Association (translated into Arabic)
• Official company letter (in Arabic) requesting a Tourism Certificate
• Copy of Trade Licence
• If the vehicle is mortgaged, get an eNOC from the mortgagor
• eNOC from the ATCUAE
• Driver’s original Emirates ID and Driving Licence

How To Apply For The Permit Online

Here’s how you can apply for your certificate online, via the RTA website:

• Visit the RTA website and log in (or use UAE Pass)
• Go to Certificate Group > Vehicle Certificates
• Select Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes
• Fill in the required details
• Pay the fees using a credit card
• Receive your certificate via SMS and email

Important Terms & Conditions You Need To Know Before Hand

Before applying, make sure you meet these requirements:

• You (or your legal representative) must be present in person
• All traffic fines must be cleared before applying
• If your vehicle is mortgaged, you need an NOC from the mortgagor
• If someone else is driving your car, they must present their Driving Licence, and both the owner & driver must be present
• Citizens & GCC Nationals don’t need an eNOC from ATCUAE to drive within the GCC
• Residents MUST obtain an eNOC from ATCUAE & a Tourism Certificate from RTA
• If transporting your vehicle via cargo, you need a copy of the cargo company’s Trade Licence

Final Checklist Before You Hit the Road!

• Have your Tourist Vehicle Certificate?
• Got your International Driving License?
• Cleared any traffic fines?
• Packed all the required documents?

If it’s a yes, yes, YES to all of the above then you’re all set for a smooth and stress-free road trip! Enjoy the open road, explore some new destinations, and have a fantastic Eid getaway!

You may also like: Dubai: 6 Fun Road Trips