UAE: Dubai imposes strict new licensing and permit rules for tourist transport operators

Dubai has introduced a new Executive Regulation aimed at revamping the emirate’s tourist transport system. Spearheaded by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism, the regulation sets out a comprehensive framework to raise service standards, ensure regulatory compliance, and support Dubai’s ambitions as a premier global tourism destination.

Regulatory overhaul – Framework for tourist transport operators

The new regulation governing tourist transport in Dubai has been enacted under Administrative Decision No. (97) of 2025, following Executive Council Resolution No. (107) of 2023. This legal foundation is designed to systematise and elevate the operations of the tourist transport sector.Key operational responsibilities under the new regulation have been assigned to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). These include:

All applications and transactions will be handled via RTA’s authorised service channels and centres, ensuring streamlined procedures and regulatory oversight.

The regulation mandates full compliance from sector participants to align with international best practices.

Strategic goals – Enhancing quality, safety, and global standing

The regulation is positioned as a cornerstone in Dubai’s wider strategy to develop an integrated, high-quality tourist transport system. The primary objectives include:

RTA and related agencies are continuing to roll out solutions tailored to the needs of the tourist transport sector. These efforts are part of Dubai’s long-term strategic planning to strengthen key economic sectors and maintain the city’s global reputation for innovation and service excellence.

The regulation is expected to generate direct benefits for transport companies and institutions, offering a more structured environment that encourages higher standards and improved customer experiences.

Public transport expansion – Strong growth and network integration

Dubai’s public transport ecosystem has experienced substantial growth, reinforcing the timing and relevance of the new regulation. In the first half of 2025, the city recorded 395.3 million public transport rides, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period in 2024.Breakdown of ridership in H1 2025:

This steady rise in usage highlights the success of mobility strategies targeting both residents and tourists. In line with this, the Dubai Metro Blue Line extension is underway, aimed at connecting 1 million residents across 14 stations, further integrating transport infrastructure across the emirate.The upgraded transport landscape complements the new tourist transport regulation by ensuring smoother connectivity, improved service coverage, and enhanced operational reliability.

Tourism performance – Rising visitor numbers and hotel metrics

The necessity for a regulated and high-standard tourist transport framework is underscored by Dubai’s robust tourism performance in 2025. In just the first six months, the city welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors, already surpassing the total visitor count for the entire year of 2024.Key performance indicators for H1 2025:

These figures cement Dubai’s status as a global travel hub and reinforce the critical role of transport infrastructure in supporting visitor experience. The new regulation aims to ensure that the city’s transport services are equipped to handle this growth while maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality.