Data from the Ministry of Interior's 'Marhoos' platform has revealed the broad international recognition enjoyed by the UAE driving licence, with UAE nationals now able to drive on their national licence in 33 international destinations during visits and tourism. They can also exchange it for a local driving licence in 34 destinations when residing abroad, under agreements and memoranda of understanding that facilitate ease of movement for citizens outside the country.
The list of destinations that recognise the UAE licence or allow its exchange includes several countries, among them the United Kingdom, Portugal, Austria, the Netherlands, Denmark, Finland, Poland, Greece, the People's Republic of China, and Azerbaijan, as well as the US state of Texas and a number of European and Asian countries. South Korea allows the exchange of the UAE licence for residents only.
The number of countries whose nationals can exchange their national driving licences for a UAE licence has risen to 53, without the need to sit a theory or practical test, while holders of 52 nationalities from those countries can drive within the UAE on their national licences during a visit. For South Korean nationals, the exchange is limited to those who are residents.
Exchange conditions
- The licence must be issued by one of the approved countries.
- The legal age requirement must be met.
- The licence must be valid.
- A residence visa issued by the emirate, or a residential, work, or study address, must be provided.
- An eye test must be passed.
- The original licence must be surrendered for some countries in accordance with the memoranda of understanding.
Required documents
- A certified legal translation of the original foreign licence
- A copy of the original licence
Exchange fee
600 dirhams (AED)