What the new rule actually says
Under the decision, implemented through powers delegated to the governor of Hormozgan, cars carrying PERMANENT Kish or Qeshm free-zone plates may — after obtaining a transit permit — be driven anywhere in Hormozgan province, including Bandar Abbas. Previously the legal range was the island itself, with only limited temporary passes beyond it.
- Only PERMANENT Kish and Qeshm plates qualify — temporary transit plates and older legacy free-zone plates do not.
- The car must be model year 2011 or newer.
- A transit permit is required, processed through the free-zone organisation, customs and the traffic police.
- Driving without the permit risks the car being impounded.
Why it matters
Before this decision, a free-zone car was effectively an island car. Now the same car is usable across a whole province anchored by Bandar Abbas — while its import duty was a fraction of the mainland tariff: roughly 6% of CIF for petrol up to 2500cc versus 50–75% for a mainland import.
Two model-year rules — do not mix them up
| Question | Rule | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Can the car be imported at all? | Under 5 years old — currently model 2022+ | Moves up one year every January |
| How far may it be driven? | Model 2011+ with a permanent Kish/Qeshm plate and permit | A fixed year set by the 2026 decision; it does not roll |
Both can be true of the same car: a 2015 model can no longer be imported, yet a 2015 already wearing a Qeshm plate may now legally drive to Bandar Abbas.
The practical route from Dubai
- 1Choose a GCC-spec car, model 2022 or newer — the free-zone route now has no value ceiling and no engine-size cap; petrol duty is banded instead (6% up to 2500cc, 8% for 2500–3000cc, 10% above), a minimum file value of around USD 8,000 is reported, and final eligibility is confirmed per car with the destination zone before purchase.
- 2Price the landed cost before you buy: car + freight (ro-ro about AED 3,200) + marine insurance + free-zone duty + VAT + fixed clearance fees.
- 3The car ships from a UAE port to the free zone, clears customs and receives its plate.
- 4With the permanent plate issued, apply for the provincial transit permit.
Can a Kish-plated car drive to Tehran?
No. The 2026 decision covers Hormozgan province only; beyond it the limited temporary-pass rule still applies.
Do temporary plates get the same freedom?
No. Only permanent Kish and Qeshm plates, with a permit, on cars model 2011 or newer.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules change — confirm your own position with a qualified professional before deciding.
