Do You Need a UAE Driving Licence?
If you plan to drive in Dubai, you'll need a UAE driving licence. The process depends on which country issued your current licence.
Good news for UK licence holders: You can convert directly without taking a test. It's one of the smoothest processes in the whole relocation.
Countries with Direct Conversion
If your licence is from one of these countries, you can convert without taking a driving test:
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Luxembourg |
| North America | USA, Canada |
| Asia Pacific | Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong |
| Middle East | Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman |
| Other | South Africa, Turkey |
If your country isn't listed, you'll need to take a driving test in UAE.
Converting a UK Licence
The UK to UAE conversion is straightforward. Here's exactly what I did:
What You Need
- Original UK driving licence
- Passport with valid UAE visa
- Emirates ID
- Passport-size photos (usually 2)
- Eye test certificate (done on the spot)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor - if required
The Process
- Visit RTA service center - I went to Umm Ramool, but there are many locations
- Take eye test - Simple chart reading, done in 5 minutes, costs around AED 50
- Submit documents - They verify everything
- Pay the fee - Around AED 700-900 total
- Receive licence - Either same day or within a few days
Total time: About 1-2 hours if you go during a quiet time.
Sara's tip: Go early morning or use the RTA app to check queue times. Avoid end of month when everyone's rushing to get things done.
Costs
| Item | Cost (approx) |
|---|---|
| Eye test | AED 50-100 |
| Application fee | AED 200 |
| Licence issuance | AED 100-170 |
| Knowledge test (if required) | AED 200 |
| Typing/service fees | AED 50-100 |
| Total (direct conversion) | AED 400-600 |
If You Need to Take a Test
If your licence isn't from an approved country, you'll need to:
- Enrol at a driving school - Emirates Driving Institute, Belhasa, Galadari are popular
- Complete required lessons - Usually 20-40 lessons depending on experience
- Pass theory test - Multiple choice, available in English
- Pass practical test - Driving test with examiner
Timeline & Cost for New Licence
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-6 months depending on lesson availability |
| Lessons | AED 3,000-8,000 |
| Tests & fees | AED 1,500-2,500 |
| Total | AED 5,000-12,000 |
It's a significant investment in time and money, so if you can convert directly, do it as soon as possible.
Using Your Home Licence (Temporarily)
On a tourist visa or while waiting for residence, you can rent cars with:
- International Driving Permit (IDP) - Get before leaving your home country
- Some countries' licences work directly for tourists (check with rental company)
Once you're a resident, you must convert or obtain a UAE licence.
Licence Categories
The standard licence covers:
- Light motor vehicles (cars, SUVs)
- Automatic or manual (your choice when applying)
Motorcycle and commercial vehicle licences have separate requirements.
Renewing Your UAE Licence
UAE licences are valid for:
- 10 years for UAE/GCC nationals
- 5 years for expats under 60
- 3 years for expats over 60
Renewal is straightforward - eye test and fee, usually done through the RTA app.
Where to Go
RTA Service Centers:
- Umm Ramool (large, central)
- Al Barsha
- Deira
- Various mall locations
You can also use typing centers (Amer, Tas'heel) who handle the paperwork for you for a small fee.
Quick Tips
- Bring original documents - Copies aren't accepted
- Go early - Beat the queues
- Use the RTA app - Book appointments, check requirements
- Don't let your home licence expire - Renew before leaving if close to expiry
- Convert ASAP - Don't wait until your current licence expires
After You Get Your Licence
Now you can:
- Buy or lease a car
- Rent cars easily
- Register for Salik (toll system)
- Get car insurance
Driving in Dubai is easy - well-maintained roads, clear signage, and most people speak English. Just get used to the speed and watch for sudden lane changes!
Questions about getting your licence? Happy to share more details from our experience.