🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates driving licence translation & IDP

1949 + 1968 IDP· Issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

As a United Arab Emirates driver you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, covering the widest range of countries. Carry the IDP with your original United Arab Emirates licence. Because United Arab Emirates licences are printed in Arabic script, foreign police and rental desks often cannot read them — a certified translation lets them verify your licence at a glance.

Driving abroad with a United Arab Emirates licence

United Arab Emirates is party to both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, so United Arab Emirates drivers obtain their International Driving Permit at home before travelling. The IDP is an official translation of your licence into multiple languages; it is valid only alongside the original card and only while that card remains valid. A separate certified translation companion is useful at police stops and rental desks where staff need a quick, readable copy of your licence details.

What United Arab Emirates drivers should carry abroad

Your original United Arab Emirates driving licence (physical card)
Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
An International Driving Permit issued in United Arab Emirates under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions
A certified translation companion to speed up police and rental-desk checks
Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your United Arab Emirates licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your United Arab Emirates licence — ready to carry alongside the original. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Check a specific destination

Get a tailored answer for your United Arab Emirates licence, your destination, dates and vehicle.

Popular destinations for United Arab Emirates drivers

Do you need an IDP at your destination? Jump to the sourced country guide:

United Arab Emirates drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a United Arab Emirates driving licence?

Which International Driving Permit does United Arab Emirates issue?

United Arab Emirates issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. Your IDP must be obtained in United Arab Emirates before you travel from an authorised issuer; it is a recognised translation of your licence and is always carried together with the original.

Does a certified translation replace an IDP for United Arab Emirates drivers?

No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your United Arab Emirates licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence alongside it. Because United Arab Emirates licences are printed in Arabic script, foreign police and rental desks often cannot read them — a certified translation lets them verify your licence at a glance.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.