How to Drive in Dubai with a Valid Driver's License
Tags:
Introduction
Dubai allows foreign drivers with a valid driver's license to legally drive in the country without the need for a local driver's license or taking a driving test. This is particularly important for expatriates and visitors coming for work or tourism, as driving is the most convenient way to navigate the city.
Requirements for Driving with a Valid License
This benefit is available only to citizens holding a valid driver's license from certain countries. If you are a former resident living in a country not included in the list, you will need to obtain a Dubai driving license.
Recognized Countries
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Oman, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait.
- European countries: Belgium, Luxembourg, Denmark, Romania, Poland, Portugal, Finland, Slovakia, Sweden, Norway, Greece, United Kingdom, Netherlands, France, Spain, Australia.
- North America: Canada.
- New Zealand and Australia.
- East Asian countries: North Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, China, Singapore.
- South Africa.
Important Notes
- If you are from Canada, you will need to obtain a letter from the Canadian consulate in Dubai confirming that your driver's license is valid.
- If you are from North Korea, Japan, Turkey, Greece, Poland, or Canada, you will need to obtain a translated driver's license from the consulate.
Documents Required to Obtain a Driving License in Dubai
You need to prepare the following documents:
- Original passport and a copy.
- Current valid driver's license (original and a copy).
- Valid residency visa issued locally (must be stamped in the passport).
- Translated driver's license (if required).
- Letter from the consulate (for Canadian applicants).
- Letter from the sponsor confirming no objections to obtaining the license.
- Copy of the trade license for the branch office and the main office if the residency visa was issued in another emirate.
Steps to Obtain a Driving License
You will also need to undergo an eye test at a local hospital, optometrist, or clinic, informing them that the test is required for a driving license. Most of them will exempt you from paying any fees, while some may charge a small fee.
Once you have prepared all the required documents, you can visit the Driving License Department at the Dubai Traffic Department. Their office hours are from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and female applicants can go to the women’s section for processing.
Final Procedures
- Fill out the application form.
- The responsible staff member will check your documents and sign them if everything is valid.
- You will then need to pay the required fee of 360 AED.
- Go to the data entry kiosk and submit your documents.
- Wait for your name to be called; your photo will be taken, and your license will be issued shortly.
Additional Notes
If you are not eligible for a local driving license, you will need to apply for a Dubai driving license. If you hold a valid driving license, you can visit one of the accredited driving institutes to take the road test and the theoretical exam without the need to attend any classes. However, you will need to take four driving lessons if you fail the test.
