1. Set up a mainland company
Register a mainland company with DET for the limousine activity. DET usually asks for an RTA no-objection certificate before it approves passenger transport. Self-drive car rental is a different activity and does not allow you to carry paying passengers.
2. Sign an operating agreement with the RTA
A trade licence alone does not let you carry passengers. You need an operating agreement with the RTA Public Transport Agency. Reported requirements include a minimum fleet, often cited as about 20 vehicles launched within a few months. Proof of capital is often cited at about AED 5 million. These figures come from industry reporting, so confirm them with the RTA.
3. Choose RTA-approved vehicles
Vehicles must be RTA-approved premium sedans, luxury SUVs, executive vehicles or stretch limousines. Each vehicle is inspected and added to your operating permit with RTA plates. Age limits apply, commonly cited at about five years for standard vehicles.
4. Hire and permit your chauffeurs
Each chauffeur needs an RTA limousine driver permit, separate from an ordinary UAE driving licence. Expect an RTA training course and test, a medical check, police clearance and a residence visa under your company's sponsorship.
5. Insurance, VAT and tax
Commercial passenger insurance is mandatory for every vehicle. Local passenger transport is VAT-exempt, not zero-rated. That means you usually can't claim back VAT on vehicles and fuel. Corporate tax is 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above it.
6. Set up booking, dispatch and tracking
Corporate and hotel clients expect to book through an app or portal, and you need to dispatch chauffeurs and track vehicles. Check which dispatch and tracking requirements the RTA applies to your licence. Hoppvia's limousine booking software for Dubai includes branded customer and chauffeur apps, live GPS tracking and corporate accounts. Plans start at $1,990 a year.
Typical costs
| Item | Approximate cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| DET mainland licence | 12,000 to 30,000 per year |
| RTA capital proof | Commonly cited around 5,000,000 |
| RTA per-vehicle fee | Commonly cited around 1,200 per vehicle per month |
| Luxury vehicles | 150,000 to 400,000+ each |
| Driver permits and training | A few thousand per driver |
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Confirm current requirements and fees with DET and the RTA.
