When traveling abroad and looking to rent a car, all you need is your UAE driver’s license if you are visiting one of the many countries that recognize it. The UAE’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) offers an online service called ‘Markhoos’ where you can easily access the list of countries where your UAE-issued driving license is valid. It is essential to remember that this privilege is only applicable when you are on a visit visa. If you are planning to become a resident in the country you are visiting, the process for driving may differ depending on the country’s regulations.
List of countries that recognize the UAE driving license
GCC
As a resident of the UAE with a valid driving license, you have the privilege of driving in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries using your UAE-issued license. These countries include Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
In addition to these countries, you can also use your UAE driving license to drive in the following countries when visiting:
- Estonia
- Albania
- Portugal
- China
- Hungary
- Greece
- Ukraine
- Bulgaria
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Serbia
- Cyprus
- Latvia
- Luxembourg
- Lithuania
- Malta
- Iceland
- Montenegro
- United States of America
- France
- Japan
- Belgium
- Switzerland
- Germany
- Italy
- Sweden
- Ireland
- Spain
- Norway
- New Zealand
- Romania
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Netherlands
- Denmark
- Austria
- Finland
- United Kingdom
- Turkey
- Canada
- Poland
- South Africa
- Australia
- Israel
- Republic of Azerbaijan
What if one is traveling to a country, not on the list?
If the country you are traveling to is not on the list, you must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driving License (IDL). However, to apply for the permit, you must possess a valid local driving license issued in the United Arab Emirates.
To apply for an IDP, you can visit the following entities as listed on the UAE government’s official website – u.ae:
– Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE)
– Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offices
– Emirates Post offices
– Dnata office in Sheikh Zayed Road
– Affiliate members of ATCUAE
– Ministry of Interior through the MOI UAE app available on iTunes and Google Play.
Ensure you have all necessary documents and information ready before applying for an IDP to make the process smoother and quicker.
Cost and validity
– The permit cost is Dh170, plus an additional five percent for Value Added Tax (VAT).
– Please note that the permit is valid for one year.
Also Read: Dubai driving license renewal options – everything you need to know