One of the first questions visitors ask is whether their licence is valid in Dubai. The good news is that most tourists from Europe, North America and many other countries can drive a rental car with the licence they already have. Others need an International Driving Permit. This guide explains the general rules and how we check them when you book.
Tourists with a licence from a recognised country
The UAE authorities publish a list of countries whose licence holders can drive in the country as visitors without taking a local test. It includes, among others, EU countries, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia and many others in Europe and Asia. If your licence is from one of these countries and you are in the UAE on a visit or tourist visa, you can usually rent and drive a car with your home licence plus your passport.
The list is updated from time to time, and individual rental companies may have their own conditions, so we always confirm your case on WhatsApp when you book. Tell us which country issued your licence and we will let you know straight away.
When you need an International Driving Permit
If your licence was issued in a country that is not on the list, you will generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with your original national licence. The IDP is a translation of your licence in a standard format, issued in your home country — usually by a national motoring association or licensing authority — before you travel. It is not a licence on its own: you must carry both documents.
Apply for your IDP well before your trip, as it usually cannot be obtained once you are abroad. Check that it is valid for the dates of your stay.
Licences in a non-Latin alphabet
If your licence is not in English or Arabic, or does not use Latin characters, an IDP or an official translation may be requested even if your country is otherwise recognised. When in doubt, bring an IDP: it costs little and removes any uncertainty.
Residents of the UAE
The rules above are for visitors. Once you become a UAE resident, you are generally required to drive with a UAE licence; some nationalities can convert their licence directly, others need to take lessons and a test. If you are moving to Dubai and want a monthly rental while you sort out residency, tell us your situation and we will confirm what is possible.
Age and experience requirements
- Minimum age: 21 for most cars and 25 for supercars such as the Lamborghini Huracán, Ferrari F8 or McLaren 720S.
- Licence held: rental companies usually expect you to have held a full licence for a minimum period; we confirm it when you book.
- Documents: passport, driving licence and IDP if required. Bring originals, not copies.
Additional drivers
If someone else will drive, they must meet the same requirements and be registered on the rental agreement. Driving a car without being listed can void the insurance, so tell us in advance and bring their documents to the handover.
What we check at delivery
When the car is delivered to your hotel or the airport, the local rental company checks your passport and licence (and IDP if needed) before you sign the rental agreement. Make sure the name on the licence matches your passport and the booking. Then you can drive away — and read our guide to driving in Dubai as a tourist to get started.
Everything in order? Choose your car from the fleet and pay in crypto, without a credit card.