Whether you can rent a car in the UAE with your current driving licence depends on two things: your residency status and which country issued your licence.
UAE residents
Once you hold a UAE residence visa, you need a UAE driving licence to rent and drive a car. Many nationalities can convert their home licence to a UAE licence without taking a test.
GCC licence holders
Licences issued by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman are accepted for car rental.
Tourists and visitors
- Visitors from many countries — including the UK, most of Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan and others — can usually rent with their home licence while on a visit visa.
- Visitors from other countries need an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with their home licence.
The list of eligible countries is set by the UAE authorities and can change, so check with us before you travel.
No IDP? We can help
Through our partnership with the International Driving Association (IDA), Capital Cars Rental can help convert your home licence into an International Driving Permit in about 10 minutes — so you can drive legally in the UAE.
Documents to bring
- Passport with entry stamp or visit visa (visitors) or Emirates ID (residents)
- Original driving licence
- International Driving Permit, if required
Not sure if your licence qualifies? Send us a photo on WhatsApp and we’ll confirm in minutes. Read more in our UAE driving guide.
