Request a Permit to Operate or Maintain an Abra
Obtain a yearly permit to operate an Abra or renew it online, ensuring compliance with regulations. You can also obtain an Abra maintenance permit to access Al Jaddaf marine transport maintenance workshops for regular (every 6 months) and urgent traditional Abra maintenance. This helps avoid fines and service interruptions.
Select the permit type
Output
Permit to Maintain an Abra, valid until the end of the maintenance period
Ways to Apply
Email
Channels
Steps
- Send the documents and the maintenance information by email to AbraMaintenance@rta.ae .
- The RTA marine officer checks the validity of the Abra registration, fills the maintenance permit form, and sends it back to you.
- Provide the Maintenance Permit to the yard security.
- The maintenance activities start at the maintenance yard at Al Jaddaf Station.
- The security staff allows the skipper to transfer the Abra back to the creek.
- The yard supervisor updates the records.
Service Time
2 working days
Important to Know
You Should Know
- The Abra Operating Permit must be valid and active to obtain an Abra Maintenance Permit.
Eligible Categories
Owners and skippers of traditional Abras (citizens only)
Service Requirements
- Abra skipper’s Driving Licence
- Abra skipper’s Emirates ID
Fees
- Free
Terms and Conditions
- These Terms and Conditions govern the use of the Al Garhoud Marine Maintenance Workshop (referred to as “the Facility”) by Abra owners and operators. They're intended to ensure that all maintenance activities are carried out safely, lawfully, and responsibly within the Facility.
- Only registered Abra owners or duly authorised operators may carry out maintenance work within the designated and approved areas of the Facility. All users must comply with the schedule set by RTA for the use of the Facility.
- All maintenance, servicing, or repair work must be carried out under the direct supervision of the Abra owner or an authorised operator. The registered Abra owner or his delegated representative may appoint companies or individuals to carry out maintenance works within the Facility.
- The Marine Transport Department shall bear no operational, legal, or financial responsibility for any activities carried out within the Facility.
- All users must comply with applicable maritime laws, environmental regulations, and the Facility’s safety policies and procedures. The maintenance permit may be suspended or revoked in the event of a violation.
- Owners and operators must implement safe work practices and ensure the proper disposal of waste generated during maintenance operations. Any accidents, spills, or damage to equipment must be reported immediately to the Marine Transport Department.
- The Facility’s infrastructure and equipment must be used properly and returned in good condition. The user shall be fully responsible for any damage or misuse occurring during the period of use.
- All maintenance work is carried out entirely at the sole risk of the registered Abra owner. The Marine Transport Department shall not be liable for any injury, loss, or damage arising from maintenance activities conducted within the Facility.
- Abra owners and operators agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Marine Transport Department, its employees, and any other affected party against any claims, liabilities, demands, or obligations arising from maintenance works carried out under these Terms and Conditions.
- Failure to comply with these Terms and Conditions shall constitute grounds for the immediate suspension or permanent revocation of the permit to use the Facility.
Updated on: 06-August-2026