Countries Where a UAE Driving Licence is Valid: All You Should Know

If you are planning to travel abroad, we have good news for you — your UAE driving licence is valid in several countries around the world. This makes it quite easy to rent a car or drive without the hassle of reapplying for a new licence. Whether you're heading to Europe, the Americas, or parts of Asia, your UAE licence can open the road to new adventures. Here’s a complete list of countries where you can use your UAE driving licence.

Overview of the UAE Driving Licence

The UAE driving licences are divided into different categories — light vehicles (further divided into 2-wheelers, cars, private cars, and commercial cars) and heavy vehicles. To get a driving licence, you need to pass the theory and practical road tests. This ensures that you have the required skills to drive around safely. 

Furthermore, if you have a valid UAE driving licence that has not expired, you can use it to drive temporarily in several countries.

UAE Driving Licence and International Recognition

It’s important to note that while you can temporarily drive in other countries using your valid UAE driving licence, you would still need an international driving permit. This permit translates your driving licence into several languages. You don’t need any additional testing to get this IDP — simply pay an official fee for it. 

Note: If you plan to drive in some countries for a longer period, you will need a licence from those countries. These countries are mentioned in the upcoming sections. 

Perks of Having a UAE Driving Licence

Plenty of advantages are attached to holding a UAE driving licence. Let’s discuss some of these benefits in more detail below —

• International Recognition – The UAE licence is recognised by several countries, allowing you to drive abroad if you have an IDP 
• Convenient and Flexible – With a valid driving licence, you can travel anywhere via road without relying too much on public transport
• Easy to Rent Cars – When you go to a country where you can drive with a UAE driving licence, you can easily rent a car for travelling with your licence and IDP 

List of Countries Where the UAE Driving Licence is Valid

Here’s the complete list of countries where your UAE driving licence may be considered valid —

Countries with UAE Driving Licence Exceptions

While the list of countries where you can drive with a UAE driving licence is quite long, there are some exceptions as well. Here are some countries that have distinctive requirements or considerations for UAE licence holders —

For Driving in the UK

• The UAE driving licence is acceptable only for 12 months
• After 12 months, the driver needs to get a UK driving licence

For Driving in Saudi Arabia 

• UAE licences are accepted in Saudi Arabia
• However, non-GCC expatriates with UAE driving licences will need to get a Saudi licence
• Women with a UAE licence can drive in Saudi Arabia — this is possible since the latter removed the driving ban in 2018

For Driving in India

• UAE driving licences are not directly accepted; you would need an IDP along with a valid visa
• Due to varying road conditions and driving practices, it’s often a good idea to hire a local driver

Converting UAE Licence Abroad

As mentioned above, if you are planning long-term stays, you will need to convert your UAE driving licence into a local one. While the process varies as per the country, here is a general idea of how it works —

• Provide the residency status
• Submit a valid UAE driving licence
• Passing a written test on local traffic laws
• Take a practical driving test (if required)
• Pay the applicable fees

Licence Conversion in Selected Countries

Hacks for Driving Abroad Using a UAE Driving Licence

Here are some tips to consider when driving in another country using your UAE driving licence —

• Research Local Traffic Laws – Consider familiarising yourself with local driving rules. Pay attention to speed limits and make sure to know the parking rules and regulations. 
• Get Vehicle Insurance – Make sure you have the right vehicle insurance. If required, consider buying additional insurance for rental cars. 
• Make Sure to Carry Important Documents – Ensure you carry necessary documents like a valid UAE driving licence, passport, international driving permit, vehicle registration, and insurance documents (if required). 
• Stay Updated on Changes – Keep a check on changes in driving laws or licence acceptance policies. Consult the UAE embassy of the country you are visiting for recent information. 

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