UAE Eases Driving License Rules For Visitors From 52 Countries
International Visitors Can Now Use Home Country Licenses
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly streamlined its driving regulations for international visitors. Travelers from 52 countries can now legally operate vehicles in the UAE using their native driving licenses, provided they are not residents of the country. This change aims to simplify car rentals and travel within the Emirates.
“Markhoos” Initiative Simplifies Licensing
This update is part of the “Markhoos” initiative, accessible through the Ministry of Interior’s digital services. The program facilitates the recognition and exchange of driving licenses for both foreign nationals visiting the UAE and UAE citizens residing abroad. This move is expected to enhance convenience for tourists and business travelers.
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โ ูุฒุงุฑุฉ ุงูุฏุงุฎููุฉ (@moiuae) July 18, 2025
Exchanging Licenses for Residents
For individuals planning to reside in the UAE, the Ministry of Interior has outlined six conditions for exchanging an existing foreign driving license for a UAE one. These include meeting the legal driving age, ensuring the foreign license is valid, and passing an eye test. Depending on bilateral agreements, the original foreign license may need to be surrendered. Required documents for exchange include a legal Arabic translation of the foreign license, a copy of the original, and a fee of AED 600 (approximately $163 USD).
Eligible Nationalities Detailed
The UAE’s Ministry of Interior has specified 52 nationalities whose driving licenses are recognized for use or exchange. This list includes countries from across Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania. For instance, citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and Japan are among those eligible. Notably, South Korean citizens can only exchange their licenses after obtaining legal residency in the UAE.
The Ministry of Interior also highlighted new visa programs in 2025 designed to simplify the process of visiting, living, and working in the UAE, further enhancing the country’s appeal to international visitors and residents. For comprehensive details and the latest eligibility criteria, users can consult the MOI UAE mobile application or the UAE Ministry of Interiorโs smart services portal.
