RTA - Roads and Transport Authority

Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) plays a vital role in ensuring smooth and efficient transportation across the city. From public transport services like buses, metros, and taxis to vehicle registration and licensing, RTA simplifies commuting for residents and visitors. ...read more

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Its services enhance convenience, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable travel options. Whether you need to renew a driving license, pay parking fees, or plan a journey, RTA provides seamless solutions through its customer service centers and digital platforms. With smart services and real-time updates, RTA is a one-stop solution for all your transportation needs. 

Dubai's well-maintained roads and efficient transport system are managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Established in 2005 by the Dubai Government, RTA is the main provider of transportation services in the city. RTA handles public transport, issues licences for drivers and vehicle owners, and oversees traffic laws. 

It also plans and develops new roads and transport projects to improve connectivity. With a focus on sustainability, RTA continues to enhance Dubai’s transport system, making travel smooth, safe, and convenient for residents and visitors.

Major Responsibilities of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

  • Traffic Safety – RTA ensures that the transportation has high-quality features so that the vehicles remain safe on the road and there is steady traffic flow in Dubai
  • Road Engineering – It takes care of all the road engineering work that is done in different regions of the Emirates
  • Registration and Licensing – RTA Dubai is responsible for all the vehicle-related permits – driving licence, e-traffic transactions, and permits
  • Roads and Parking – The Road and Transportation Authority ensures that all roads and parking lots are properly regulated, maintained and designed with the highest international safety standards
  • Beautifying Roads – This is another core responsibility of RTA. It is responsible for beautifying all roads
  • Inter-city Transport – It provides an array of public transportation options for travelling intercity for residents, tourists, and visitors

Services Offered by RTA (Roads and Transport Authority)

RTA provides a variety of transportation and vehicle-related services to make travel and commuting hassle-free in Dubai. Whether you need to register your vehicle, renew your driving license, pay fines, or even rent a bus, RTA ensures a smooth and efficient process. With its user-friendly platforms, including online services and mobile apps, RTA makes it easy for residents and visitors to access essential transport services without long waits or complications.

From public transportation to private vehicle management, RTA’s services are designed to enhance convenience and improve overall mobility in the city. With a strong focus on efficiency and accessibility, these services cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike. Let’s explore the key services you can take advantage of.

  • Drivers and Car Owners
  • Public Transport Services
  • Business and Corporate

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Drivers and Car Owners -

With this RTA service, the Drivers and Car owners have access to essential information and resources, including driving, parking, driving permits, vehicle registration, certification, and licensing; road safety initiatives and driving tests; and paying traffic fines and parking fees. 

Each of these services are explained in detail below for your better understanding. 

Services Description
Fines You can pay your driving and parking-related fines using some easy and simple steps. The fines you can pay include vehicle fines, RTA fines, parking fines, and disputed fines. You can also dispute an invalid Salik violation
Salik With Salik services, you can perform your transactions even via RTA. The services offered include purchasing a Salik tag, recharging a Salik account, applying for the exemption from Salik fees, registering and activating a Salik tag, and applying for amending Salik account data
Driving Licences You can also access driving licence services on RTA. You can apply for:
  • Renewing a driving licence
  • Changing a driving test appointment
  • Replacing a lost/damaged driving licence
  • Electric scooter driving permit 
  • Booking a driving test
  • Driver experience certificate
  • International Driving Licence
Parking Through the Road and Transportation Authority, you can get your parking permit, pay for parking, and check parking fares
Plates You can renew your vehicle, get a special plate, and change the design of your plate. The services include:
  • Special plates enquiry
  • Applying to purchase a special number plate
  • Requesting additional plates
  • Renewing reserved plate
  • Renewal trade plate, and technical vehicle status certificate

Public Transport Services -

To make sure that there is smooth traffic flow and enhance mobility, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) also offers public transport services. These services enable them to transfer around effortlessly across the city. You can use the public transport services to recharge your nol card to travel via metro, tram, or take a trip via bus or taxi. 

The following are the Public Transport Services from RTA –

Services Description
nol The nol card enables you to pay for different RTA transport services in Dubai with a single tap. You can use the card to pay for parking and buy groceries at the selected stores, too. The services include choosing the nol card, paying the nol fares, topping up the nol card, getting a nol balance refund, or renewing a personal nol card.
Dubai Metro RTA offers maps of the two different metro routes in Dubai, helping you to travel safely across the city
Tram RTA offers all the insights about trams, including the route and safety measures to be aware of
Dubai Bus On the RTA website, you can book intercity bus tickets, locate bus stations in Dubai, check the bus fare status, and dispute the fines filed against you if required
Dubai Taxi This is a regular taxi service that is available 24/7. You can hail taxis through street hailing or partner apps like S’hail and Careem
Marine With RTA, you can also travel by marine transport. This includes Abra, Dubai Ferry, and Dubai Water Taxi. Find out about the rules for using marine transport on the RTA website

Business and Corporate -

With RTA, you can check all the services related to corporate and business. If you are a business person, you can apply for an NOC, a trade licence, a permit, and more. The following are the services offered under Business and Corporate services –

Services Description
eNOC You can apply for an electric No Objection Certificate for your business and corporate requirements on the RTA website. The services offered also include the issuance of driver NOC and NOC to modify a trade licence
Licensing  You can apply for different licensing services like the issuance of commercial licence plates and more. The RTA services also include reviewing trade licence requests, updating trade licence information, applying for an NOC for a new trade licence, reprinting documents, obtaining a temporary event permit, and inquiring about vehicles or plates ownership
Traffic Services As a business owner, you can also go for traffic services like applying for a building and house number, reserving a parking space, impounded light and heavy vehicles and trailers, a permit for major roads division, and more
Driving Institutes You can get all your permits and licences required to start your driving institute
Commercial Transport Another service offered by RTA is commercial transport service, including Dubai Metro Retails, Commercial NOCs, and more. The services offered are: 
  • Applying for a licence plate trading permit
  • Naqel services
  • Applying for an NOC to hire a luxury vehicle driver
  • Tajeer services
  • Certifying new luxury or taxi vehicle model, issuing the “to whom it may concern” certificate
  • Green fleet rating system
  • Applying for an NOC for a new trade licence
  • Commercial transport conditions and procedures
  • Short term bus rental
  • Following up franchise contract permits requests
  • Paying fines incurred by delayed vehicle replacement
Vendors Under this RTA Dubai service, you can access detailed information about the general pre-qualification procedure for investors, contractors, and suppliers. This included guidance on applying for the vendor and investor registration, general policies, obtain big documents, submit proposals, release of bank guarantee, and more

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RTA Customer Happiness Centres

RTA has multiple centers across Dubai to offer quick and efficient services. Here, you’ll find the contact details, operating hours, and locations of RTA’s Customer Happiness Centres for easy access. 

We have outlined the following major RTA customer happiness centres –

Centres Addresses Timings Contact Number
Al Barsha 765 Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Quoz, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Dubai  Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090
Al Kifaf Al Kifaf Centre, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Kifaf, Dubai Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090
Umm Ramool 20 10b Street, Umm Ramool, Dubai Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090
Al Twar 34 22nd Street, Al Twar, Al Twar 2, Dubai Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090
Al Manarah Al Manara Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Near Noor Islamic Bank Metro Footbridge, Dubai Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090
Deira Behind Dubai Traffic Court, Al Quds Street, Al Twar, Al Twar 1, Dubai Sunday to Thursday – 08:00 am to 07:30 pm | Friday – Closed 8009090

Ways Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Files Complaints

If you encounter any transport-related issues and need to file a complaint with the RTA, there are multiple ways to do so. You can visit one of RTA ’s Happiness Centres with all the necessary documents for in-person assistance.

Alternatively, you can submit your complaint online through email or RTA’s official social media pages. To ensure a smooth process when filing a complaint via social media or email, follow these steps carefully. This method allows you to address concerns conveniently without visiting a service centre, making it a hassle-free option for quick resolution.

Via Social Media

You can also file a complaint with the RTA through its official social media platforms, including: Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. The links to these pages can be found on the RTA’s contact page.

Once you submit your complaint, an available social media representative will reach out to you shortly to discuss your issue. The RTA strives to address and resolve complaints within an estimated time frame of three working days.

Using social media for complaints is a convenient option, allowing you to communicate directly with RTA representatives without visiting an office or calling customer service. It ensures a quicker response and keeps you updated on the progress of your complaint.

Via Email

To file a complaint with the RTA via email, simply send your detailed complaint to ask@rta.ae. After you send the email, you will receive an automatic reply confirming that your complaint has been received. Within one working day, an RTA representative will contact you to gather more details about your issue.

The time required to resolve your complaint depends on the nature of the problem. Some complaints may take longer than others, depending on their complexity. However, once your issue is addressed, an RTA representative will promptly inform you of the resolution.

Our Tip for You: To ensure a quicker response, include all relevant details in your initial email, such as your contact information, complaint description, and any supporting documents.

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RTA Mobile Application

Visiting Customer Happiness Centres for inquiries can be time-consuming and tiring. To simplify the process, RTA Dubai’s mobile app (available for Android and iOS) provides a range of convenient services, allowing users to access essential features without needing to visit a service centre.

Key Services Offered by the RTA Dubai App:

  • Live Chat Support - Ask questions and receive real-time assistance from an RTA representative
  • Fine Checking & Payment - Easily check and pay any outstanding traffic fines directly through the app
  • Live Traffic Updates - Stay informed about current road conditions and traffic congestion
  • Vehicle Registration Renewal - Renew your vehicle registration quickly without visiting an RTA centre
  • Driving Licence Renewal - Conveniently renew your driving license through the app

With these features, the RTA Dubai app makes it easier for residents and visitors to manage their transportation needs efficiently.

Benefits of the RTA Mobile App

The RTA Dubai App is much more than just a taxi booking platform—it’s your ultimate smart travel companion for both public transport users and private vehicle owners. Here’s how it makes commuting easier:

  • All-in-One Convenience – Access public transport, taxis, parking, and more in a single app, eliminating the need for multiple apps or physical visits
  • Real-Time Updates – Get live schedules for buses, metro, and trams to plan trips efficiently and avoid delays
  • Smart Trip Planning – Receive the best route options based on your start and destination, with estimated travel times
  • Fare Estimation – Know your public transport costs in advance for better budgeting.
  • Cashless Payments – Easily top up your Nol card, pay for parking, and book taxis securely through the app
  • Parking Assistance – Find, reserve, and pay for parking spots hassle-free
  • Smart Services Integration – Connects with IoT devices for real-time traffic updates, ride-hailing, and smart parking
  • Eco-Friendly Impact – Encourages public transport use, reducing congestion and carbon emissions

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Registering and Re-registering Your Vehicles with RTA 

New vehicles, whether personal or commercial are registered with the Roads and Transport Authority by the dealers before you take them home after the purchases. However, you can register your vehicle yourself as well. The registration process is quite simple and the same steps can be traced backed to re-register the vehicle when the expiration date of the registration arrives every 13 months. Given below are the steps of registration and re-registration of the vehicles with RTA:

  • Go to an authorised Roads and Transport Authority registration centre in your emirate. 
  • Bring all the required documents with you including the driving license, passport, Emirates ID, traffic file, inspection and test certificates, possession certificate, etc. 
  • Submit a registration request at the helpdesk and send in the required documents. 
  • Your request will be processed right away and you will receive your brand-new registration documents and the card on the spot. 
  • Emirates like Dubai also have self-service machines installed which can be used to register your vehicles without having to visit a centre. 

To re-register your vehicle, you can take advantage of the online service portals of the various Roads and Transport Authorities of the UAE. Simply find the renewal of vehicle registration portal, add a request, fill out the necessary details, pay the fee and renew the registration in seconds. A soft copy of the new registration will get you right away via email while the physical copies can be mailed to your address. 

Checking Vehicle Registration via the RTA

Every detail about your registered vehicle in the UAE can be found with the Roads and Transport Authorities of the emirates. You simply need a few details to kick start the process of checking vehicle registration details or other things like the status of your vehicle insurance plan. Simply find the ‘check vehicle expiry’ portal in the ‘services for drivers and car owners’ section. Enter your license plate number and hit the search button. Every available detail about your vehicle will appear on the next screen including the registration details. 

Getting License Plate Number from the RTA

Roads and Transport Authorities in the UAE are also responsible to register and allot license plates in the emirates. The initial registration is generally done by the dealership as it is with the vehicle registration. However, if you are eyeing a specific number or a luxury possession, you can score your precious license plate number by RTA allotment or auctions. The specialised plates can be registered with the RTA once you win them. The registration of a special, luxury number is valid only for a few years. After that, you have to renew the registration via the road and transport authority. 

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Road and Transport Authority (RTA) Contact Details

You can easily connect with RTA using the contact details provided in this section. There are multiple ways to get in touch, including –

  • Chatting with Mahboub 24/7
  • Calling the Call Centre – 800 90 90 (24/7 Toll-Free Number)
  • Visiting the Headquarters – 60 5th Street, Al Garhoud, Dubai
  • Visiting any of the above-mentioned RTA Customer Happiness Centres
  • Email – ASK@rta.ae
  • Via Social Media – Official Facebook page, Instagram handle, X, or official WhatsApp number
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Find the Answers You are Looking for: Frequently Asked Questions

What does RTA do in Dubai?

RTA is responsible for strategising and providing an integrated transportation system within Dubai and between Dubai and other emirates.

What is the use of an RTA nol card?

The RTA nol card enables you to pay fees for public transport like trams, metro, cabs, buses, and more.

How can you use mParking to pay your parking charges in Dubai?

mParking is an e-service used by RTA in Dubai. It enables you to pay for your virtual parking via SMS from your Etisalat or Du mobile numbers. 

How can you check and pay for Dubai traffic fines via RTA?

To check and pay the RTA fines, you first need to log in to your account, find the fines, review them, confirm the penalties and then pay them. You can easily check your fines using your number plate details, fine number, licence number, and traffic file number. 

How can you renew your driving licence in Dubai?

You can renew your driving licence via RTA’s website or the mobile application. It can initiate the process via RTA Customer Happiness Centres, official driving institutes, and recognised optical stores. 

What is the toll-free number for RTA Customer Care Service?

The toll-free number is 800 9090. 

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