UAE driving license is valid for driving in 45+ countries on a visit visa.
The UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) provides an online tool called ‘Markhoos’ to check the full list of countries where your UAE driving license is valid. However, it’s always recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before traveling, as many car rental agencies require it.
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain. - Other Recognized Countries
Europe & UK: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
North America: USA, Canada
Asia-Pacific: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Azerbaijan, and Singapore.
Others: South Africa
Who can use it?
Visit visa holders: Can drive in listed countries using UAE license alone.
Residents planning to relocate: May need to follow local procedures (like license exchange or conversion) depending on the country.
Requirements & Validity
- Must hold a valid UAE driving license for at least 1 year.
- Required documents: Emirates ID, passport/residency copy, UAE driving license, completed IDL form, 2 passport‑size photos.
- The IDP is valid for one year, matching your UAE license validity.
Where to Apply?
In person
- Emirates Post branches
- Automobile & Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE) or affiliate centers
- RTA service centers
Online/Digital
- MOI UAE app
- RTA online portal
- ATCUAE website
Processing & Delivery Time
- In‑person applications: Typically printed and issued on the spot—within 5–60 minutes.
- Online applications: Usually take 2 to 5 working days including delivery to your address.
Typical total: AED 170–250+ depending on extras.
Note: If you’re travelling on a visit visa, your UAE license lets you drive in 40+ countries—including all GCC nations, much of Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and others. For other destinations, get an IDP before you go. Always double-check the MOI’s Markhoos tool and official sources before travelling. If there are any updates or changes, please email us.
