How to get an international driving licence in Dubai, online or at DXB
RTA issues it online for Dh197 within two working days, and a new counter at DXB Terminal 3 Arrivals issues one in about five minutes, around the clock.
An international driving licence lets you drive abroad with your UAE licence, and it is valid for one year. Dubai residents can now get one two ways: online from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), or in person at a counter at Dubai International that GDRFA Dubai, RTA, the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club and Amer opened in September. Fees can change, so check before you pay.
Check you qualify
you need a valid, full UAE driving licence; RTA's online service is for licences issued in Dubai. A temporary or interim licence cannot be used, and you must pay any traffic fines on your licence first.
Online, on rta.ae
open "Apply for an International Driving Licence", enter your Emirates ID number and its expiry date, confirm the code sent to your phone, pay any fines, choose your photo and a delivery option, then pay.
Or in an app
in the RTA Dubai app (username or UAE Pass) or the DubaiNow app (UAE Pass, then Transport and My Licence), the steps are the same.
Pay the fee
RTA charges Dh197 (Dh177 for the licence plus Dh20 Knowledge and Innovation fees), by credit card. Delivery is extra: Dh20 standard, Dh35 same day, Dh50 within two hours, Dh50 to GCC countries. Collection from the Deira or Al Barsha Customer Happiness Centre has no delivery charge. You cannot cancel once you have paid.
About the photo
it needs a white background and a straight head position. If you upload a new photo rather than the one on file, you must collect the licence in person in Deira or Al Barsha. RTA says the service takes two working days.
At the airport
the Customer Happiness Centre in Terminal 3 Arrivals issues the licence in no more than five minutes, 24 hours a day, for citizens and residents with a valid UAE driving licence. Bring your Emirates ID, your driving licence, a copy of your passport and a personal photo. GDRFA Dubai has not published the fee for this counter.
Before you go
the licence is used in other countries, not in the UAE. Travelling to Japan? RTA says you first get the RTA licence and then visit the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club for the version Japan recognises.