Driving in Dubai with an International License: What You Need to Know

Driving in Dubai can be a great way to get around, but it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations before hitting the road. Here are some tips to help make your experience smoother.

Requirements for Obtaining UAE Driving License

This table provides information regarding the requirements for obtaining a UAE driving license based on the country of origin of your current driving license

Country of Origin	Driving License Transfer	Translation Required	Additional Requirements
Australia	Yes	No	None
Austria	Yes	No	None
Bahrain	Yes	No	None
Belgium	Yes	No	None
Canada	Yes	No	Letter from Canadian consulate
Cyprus	Yes	No	None
Denmark	Yes	No	None
Finland	Yes	No	None
France	Yes	No	None
Germany	Yes	No	None
Greece	Yes	Yes	None
Ireland	Yes	No	None
Italy	Yes	No	None
Japan	Yes	Yes	None
Kuwait	Yes	No	None
Netherlands	Yes	No	None
New Zealand	Yes	No	None
Norway	Yes	No	None
Oman	Yes	No	None
Poland	Yes	Yes	None
Portugal	Yes	No	None
Qatar	Yes	No	None
Romania	Yes	No	None
Saudi Arabia	Yes	No	None
South Africa	Yes	No	None
South Korea	Yes	Yes	None
Spain	Yes	No	None
Sweden	Yes	No	None
Switzerland	Yes	No	None
Turkey	Yes	Yes	None
United Kingdom	Yes	No	None
United States of America	Yes	No	None
All other countries	No	Yes	Must take classes and pass a test in Dubai

Follow the Rules

It is important to follow the rules of the road in Dubai. This includes:

• Wear your seatbelt at all times.
• Do not use your phone while driving.
• Do not drive on the hard shoulder.

Disobeying the laws can result in serious consequences, such as imprisonment or deportation.

Use navigation

Dubai’s roads can be confusing, especially for first time visitors. It is recommended to use navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze to avoid getting lost.

Keep an eye out for speed cameras

Dubai has a large number of speed cameras throughout the city. Be aware of your speed and keep an eye out for signs indicating the presence of speed cameras.

Be mindful of the weather

Dubai’s weather can be extremely hot during the summer months. Be sure to keep your vehicle’s air conditioning on and stay hydrated while driving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving in Dubai can be a convenient way to get around the city, but it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations before hitting the road. Follow the rules, use navigation, and be mindful of the weather to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.