It’s almost Eid Al Fitr’s long weekend, so UAE residents and citizens would naturally prepare for that much-needed getaway. An out of the UAE road trip, either into the exciting sandy dunes of Saudi Arabia or even the beautiful landscapes of Oman or straight into the vibrant cities of the GCC region while capturing this wonderful long holiday, is all the rage at this time. But before hitting the road, there are a few steps and documents you might need to complete quite necessary to enjoy traveling smoothly across borders.
Let’s figure out various aspects such as permits, fees, and travel requirements in detail.
Permits and Documents Needed to Make Your Road Trip – UAE Road Trips Permit
One very important thing that you will need to have to drive across the UAE border is the Tourist Vehicle Certificate. This document is what makes sure that your vehicle follows all the safety and regulatory standards for travel across GCC countries so that you would able to enjoy a hassle-free road trip.
What is the Tourist Vehicle Certificate?
The Tourist Vehicle Certificate is the most essential document required for any vehicle going outside the UAE for tourism purposes. It certifies that your vehicle is roadworthy and meets all the necessary regulations as per GCC. It is valid for six months, which means that, if you are a frequent traveler, you won’t have to apply for it very often.
For the citizens of UAE, GCC nationals, and resident foreigners, this document lets you travel across the international borders without having to worry about safety, be it Oman, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia. What do you want to know now? The light vehicles and motorcycles will be charged only AED 100 for the certificate.
Do You Need an International Driving License?
To be legally able to drive across GCC countries besides holding the Tourist Vehicle Certificate, you will also need an International Driving License (IDL). This license is recognized in all GCC states, so you will be covered in case it becomes necessary for you to have an official document when traveling abroad.
Before finalizing plans to travel, make sure that you or whoever is driving has a valid IDL. If you haven’t obtained one yet, it’s pretty easily available at the licensing authorities here in the UAE.
Required Documents for the Tourist Vehicle Certificate
When it comes to availing of the Tourist Vehicle Certificate, there would be a specific set of asked documents that would have to be complemented with the application. Some of these would change according to the type of identity you possess (whether you are a UAE citizen, GCC national or resident). Here is a breakdown of all that you would need:
If you are UAE Citizens or GCC Nationals:
- An Emirates ID.
- If the vehicle is mortgaged, then eNOC needs to be provided by the mortgage.
- eNOC from ATCUAE is needed if you are out of GCC countries (not applicable for Citizens and GCC nationals traveling within GCC countries).
If the Applicant is a UAE Resident:
- Emirates ID (Original)
- An eNOC from the mortgagor if the vehicle is mortgaged
- eNOC from the ATCUAE
For Corporate Companies:
- Memorandum of Association translated into Arabic
- Official letter from the company (in Arabic) requesting a Tourist Vehicle Certificate.
- Trade License Copy
- eNOC sponsored by mortgagor if the vehicle is mortgaged
- eNOC of ATCUAE
- Driver’s Original Emirates ID and Driving License
Application Process for Tourist Vehicle Certificate Online:
Applying for the Tourist Vehicle Certificate is very easy, and one can do it online on the RTA website. Here is how to apply:
- Visit the RTA website and log in (or use your UAE Pass for easy access)
- Go to Certificate Group> Vehicle Certificates
- Select a Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes
- Fill all the required details and submit your application
- Pay the fees using a credit card
- Get your certificate via SMS and email
Important Conditions and Clauses to Know
Conditions that should be satisfied before applying for the Tourist Vehicle Certificate are:
- An individual (or registered legal representative) is required to be present to apply.
- Ensure that all traffic fines are cleared before applying.
- In the case of a mortgaged vehicle, an NOC is required from the mortgagor.
- If driving the car is someone other than the applicant, she/he must hold her/his Driving License. Both the applicant and the driver need to be present for submitting the application.
- Outside the Tourism Certificate, residents must avail themselves of an eNOC from ATCUAE.
- Moreover, in case not transporting the vehicle in cargo, a copy of the Trade License of Cargo Company is needed.
The Tourist Vehicle Certificate Fees and Validity:
The price for a Tourist Vehicle Certificate is cost-efficient.
- AED 100 for the light vehicles and motorcycles
- Validity of six months, so a frequent traveler, he/she doesn’t have to apply shortly.
Final Checklist Before You Hit the Road
Before setting off on your out-of-UAE road trip this Eid Al Fitr, ensure you have all the Here’s in order all essential documents and permits. Here is a quick checklist for you:
- Tourist Vehicle Certificate: Make sure you applied and received it
- International Driving License: Ensure it’s valid for the trip.
- Cleared all Traffic Fines: Check your fines and clear them as needed
- Pack all Necessary Documents: Have your IDL ready and keep vehicle documents and Tourist Vehicle Certificate.
If everything’s done, let the fun begin with a smooth and enjoyable road trip!
Best Eid Al Fitr Road Trip Destinations from the UAE
Now that all is out of the way logistically, it’s time to plan your itinerary. If you are planning to have a road trip outside the UAE, there are great options to visit within the long Eid Al Fitr weekend:
- Oman: You can go to the gorgeous mountains of Muscat, the beautiful beaches of Salalah, or to the fascinating forts of Nizwa.
- Saudi Arabia: Another option is to go to Riyadh or Jeddah and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Ula for a taste of the ancient history of Saudi Arabia.
- Bahrain: A quick yet scenic drive, and then you find yourself in Bahrain while exposing yourself to new cultures and modern attractions.
- Qatar: Visit the glamorous Doha with its luxurious shopping, modern buildings, and beautiful desert scenery.
Wherever it takes you, though, journey with an eye towards the world or perhaps capture it all in a good memory.
Conclusion
The best way to plan a road trip this Eid Al Fitr outside the UAE is by proper planning. It’s not garish at all, and with your permits and documents intact, you can be on the road and traveling without any issues. The next step is to apply for your Tourist Vehicle Certificate and ensure your International Driving License is in proper order. If you follow all these steps, you can enjoy exploring the GCC countries and creating memories for a lifetime. Have a safe journey and enjoy your holidays to the fullest.
