Middle East
Driving in United Arab Emirates
Local law and rental desks expect an international permit alongside your home licence. Here is exactly what United Arab Emirates expects from a visiting driver, and how to have it before you land.
United Arab Emirates
Middle East · drives on the right
- Drives on the
- Right
- Rental min age
- 18+
- Ready in
- 8 min
Do I need an international driving permit in United Arab Emirates?
Local law and rental desks expect an international permit alongside your home licence. Rental firms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi require a permit for most non-GCC licences.
Which side of the road does United Arab Emirates drive on?
United Arab Emirates drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in United Arab Emirates?
Rental desks in United Arab Emirates generally require drivers to be at least 18. Younger drivers may face a surcharge or be refused.
How quickly can I get one before I fly?
The digital document is issued in minutes — the median is 41 seconds after payment — and works offline. A printed booklet ships separately by tracked courier.
Requirements are set by United Arab Emirates and can change. We publish what the destination currently expects and update it when it moves. If United Arab Emirates refuses the document we recommended for it, our money-back guarantee applies.