Dubai driving license: What you need to consider

Dubai driving licence: What you need to consider

In Dubai, the car is by far the most popular means of transportation for getting from one place to another quickly. However, in order to be able to get behind the wheel at all, you need a driving licence. And this is precisely where there are a few differences you need to be aware of in order to legally drive a car in the UAE. That is why we have compiled the most important things you need to know about driving in Dubai in the following blog post.

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The most important facts about driving licences in Dubai

If you hold a German driving licence and are on vacation in Dubai, you may drive a car temporarily — provided that your tourist visa is valid. However, we recommend carrying an international driving permit so that you are on the safe side during any checks. An international driving permit is nothing more than a translation of your driving licence, which is intended to serve as additional proof of your driving entitlement.

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Please note: Once you apply for a residence visa, your German driving licence becomes “invalid” and no longer entitles you to drive a car in the UAE. Failure to comply with this provision may result in a fine of up to 50,000 dirhams or imprisonment of up to 3 months.

So if you already know that you wish to live in Dubai over the long term, you should have your German driving licence converted in good time. The requirements you must meet depend primarily on your country of origin. If you come from the DACH region, however, an eye test and a translation of your existing driving licence are sufficient. It should be noted, though, that no car may be registered in your name without an Emirates ID. This applies regardless of whether it is a used or a new car.

Required documents

In order to have your German driving licence converted, you need the following documents:

• An eye test
• A passport photo
• Your passport with a valid residence permit (original and copy)
• A copy of your residence permit
• Your current driving licence (original and copy)
• Optional: A translation of your driving licence

What do I need to do if I do not yet have a driving licence?

If you move to the UAE but do not yet hold a driving licence, you can of course also obtain one in your new home country.

To do so, as a citizen or resident, you must apply to a registered driving school in your Emirate. You can then take part in the respective driving school courses and subsequently sit the required tests. Once you have passed these, you will be issued a driving licence valid for 2 years.

Good to know: To obtain a driving licence in the UAE, you must meet a certain minimum age, which is graduated as follows:

• 17: Motorcycle
• 18: Cars and light vehicles
• 20: Heavy vehicles and tractors
• 21: Buses

You must also be able to present a number of documents so that a traffic file can be opened for you. You will therefore need a copy of your passport, residence visa and Emirates ID, 2 photos, and your eye test report. It is also possible that some traffic authorities will require a letter of no objection from your sponsor.

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3 tips for road traffic in Dubai

1. Respect the traffic rules

As in any other country, Dubai has traffic rules you must abide by. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the relevant road regulations in advance, as a violation could cost you dearly. For example, running a red light costs the equivalent of €750, and you receive 12 of the so-called black points.

2. Drive with foresight

Traffic in Dubai can often be very chaotic, which makes it all the more important to drive defensively and carefully in order to prevent accidents. If you are responsible for a car accident due to a reckless driving style, you could face a fine of up to €12,500.

3. Avoid peak times

There are rush hours in Dubai when you are guaranteed to be caught in traffic. Try to avoid the following peak times: Monday to Friday between 8:30 – 10:30 and 17:00 – 20:30.

Good to know: The two main roads where traffic jams easily form are the ramps of Al Khail Road and Sheikh Zayed Road.

FAQ

Can I drive a car in Dubai with my German driving licence?

In the UAE, you can drive a car with your German driving licence — at least for a limited period. So if you are simply visiting or planning a vacation in Dubai, it is not necessary to obtain a local driving licence.

How much does a driving licence cost in Dubai?

The cost of acquiring or converting your driving licence varies depending on your license type and nationality. On average, the cost is around 870 AED. This includes the transfer fee and the cost of opening a traffic file. The same applies if you wish to have your driving licence renewed. For more information, visit the RTA website, where you can find a breakdown of all the costs.

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