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World Driving Permit

🇦🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in United Arab Emirates?

Depends on your licence· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 1 May 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Right-hand
Minimum driving age
18+ years
Driving without the right documents
Driving on an unrecognised licence in the UAE can invalidate your insurance and lead to fines, particularly following an accident.

Short answer

It depends on the licence you hold — United Arab Emirates accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in United Arab Emirates: the rule explained

Dubai/UAE accept licenses from ~50 approved countries (most of the EU, US, UK, GCC) for visitors renting cars. Other license holders need an IDP. Residents must convert to a UAE license. Non-Latin/Arabic-script licenses benefit from a translation companion.

Renting a car in United Arab Emirates

Rental desks in Dubai keep their own approved-country lists — always confirm with the rental company. Visitors driving a private (non-rental) car generally need an IDP regardless.

What to carry when driving in United Arab Emirates

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
  • Check the UAE approved-country list for your license
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Check your exact trip

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

United Arab Emirates: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in United Arab Emirates?
It depends on the licence you hold — United Arab Emirates accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Dubai/UAE accept licenses from ~50 approved countries (most of the EU, US, UK, GCC) for visitors renting cars. Other license holders need an IDP. Residents must convert to a UAE license. Non-Latin/Arabic-script licenses benefit from a translation companion.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in United Arab Emirates?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in United Arab Emirates read your licence, but where United Arab Emirates requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in United Arab Emirates?
Rental desks in Dubai keep their own approved-country lists — always confirm with the rental company. Visitors driving a private (non-rental) car generally need an IDP regardless.
Which IDP convention does United Arab Emirates use?
United Arab Emirates recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in United Arab Emirates?
Because United Arab Emirates follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.
What is the minimum age to drive in United Arab Emirates?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in United Arab Emirates; car-rental companies often set a higher minimum age and add a young-driver surcharge. Always confirm the age terms with your specific rental provider.

Official sources

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

Driving to United Arab Emirates from your country

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Requirements for other countries