A common question for those planning to drive in Dubai is, “Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car in Dubai?” Misjudge this, and your rental plans could stall, or insurance might fail. This guide provides everything you need to know in five minutes, tailored for tourists exploring the United Arab Emirates or expats seeking a car in Dubai for daily commutes.
See our comprehensive car rental guide.
Short Answer: License and Visa Status Decide
Whether you need an international driver’s permit (IDP) to rent a car depends on your license from your home country and UAE visa status. Here’s what you need to rent:
Tourists: Quick Checklist
A valid driving license from GCC countries (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Qatar), the US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, or South Korea is accepted without an international driving permit if it’s in English or Arabic or paired with an official translation. If your license is not in English (e.g., from India, Russia, or China), you’ll need an IDP alongside your national driver’s license. The IDP translates your home country’s driving credentials for rental companies and Dubai authorities, ensuring you can drive a car legally.
IDP Required as follows
| Country | International Driving License Required | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | No | |
| Belarus | No | |
| Brazil | Yes | |
| Canada | No | |
| Croatia | No | |
| Czech Republic | Yes | |
| France | No | |
| Germany | No | |
| Greece | No | |
| Hungary | No | Valid with their own passport only |
| India | Yes | |
| Indonesia | Yes | |
| Italy | No | |
| Japan | No | |
| Kazakhstan | Yes | |
| Malaysia | Yes | |
| Mexico | Yes | |
| Netherlands | No | |
| Poland | No | |
| Portugal | No | |
| Russia | Yes | |
| Saudi Arabia | No | |
| Singapore | No | Valid with their own passport only |
| South Korea | No | |
| Spain | No | |
| Switzerland | No | |
| Tajikistan | Yes | |
| Thailand | Yes | |
| Turkey | No | |
| Ukraine | No | Valid with their own passport only |
| United Arab Emirates | No | |
| United Kingdom | No | |
| United States | No | |
| Uzbekistan | No | |
| Vietnam | Yes |
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UAE Residents: Distinct Rules
Expats with an Emirates ID must have a UAE driving licence to rent a car. New residents, within 90 days of arrival, can use a domestic driver’s license with an IDP temporarily. Many car rental companies, including Rentico, prefer a UAE license for long-term rentals in Dubai. License holders should confirm rental requirements with rental agencies.
| Status | License Requirements |
| Tourist | Valid driver’s license (select countries) or IDP to rent a car + domestic license |
| UAE Resident | UAE driving licence (preferred) or IDP + home country’s driving license (new residents) |
Expert Advice from Rentico💯
Verify with the car rental company before arriving in the United Arab Emirates. A client once arrived in Dubai without an IDP, delaying their rental experience. A quick WhatsApp message to Rentico prevents such issues.
Why Rental Companies Require an IDP
The need for an IDP stems from UAE driving laws and insurance policies. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) mandates an IDP for any driving licence not in English or Arabic, as it translates the license into multiple languages for clarity during traffic stops or accidents. Insurance providers require an international driving permit to validate claims, protecting international drivers from financial risks. The IDP acts as an international driver’s credential under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Learn more at the RTA’s guide .
Dubai Car Rental Checklist: Requirements to Rent a Car
To drive in the UAE, a valid license is just one piece of the puzzle. Here’s everything you need for a smooth rental in Dubai:
Tourist Documents
- Passport with UAE tourist visa stamp confirms your legal status in the UAE.
- Valid driving license (English/Arabic or with IDP to rent)
- International driver’s license (if required to rent a car)
- Payment method (Rentico accepts debit/credit cards, cash, bank transfers, cryptocurrency.
UAE Resident Documents
- Emirates ID
- UAE driving licence (or IDP + domestic driver’s license for new residents)
- Payment method for a seamless rental experience
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Expert Advice from Rentico💯
Book early, especially November through March, when demand for car rental in Dubai peaks. Late bookings limit available for rent options, especially luxury cars.
Tips for Driving in Dubai
For a safe driving experience, familiarize yourself with local driving rules. Rental companies may require a valid international driving permit for certain license holders. Review the rental agreement for the rental period and use an international permit if needed. If you plan to drive outside Dubai, confirm with rental agencies whether your license in Dubai allows you to drive in the UAE. Follow tips for driving to avoid fines and ensure a smooth rental experience.
Need navigation tips? Our Dubai traffic rules guide covers speed limits and Salik tolls.
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FAQ: Top Questions About Renting a Car in Dubai
Q: Does renting require a deposit?
A: Rentico skips deposits, making renting a vehicle affordable.
Q: What does full insurance (CDW) cover?
A: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers most accident damages, per the rental agreement. Rentico clarifies terms during booking.
Q: How do I obtain an international driving permit?
A: Obtain an international driving permit from a local automobile association (e.g., AAA in the US) with a valid driver’s license, two passport photos, and a $20–$40 fee. Processing takes 1–2 days.
Q: What are Dubai’s traffic rules?
A: Traffic rules include speed limits (40–120 km/h), no phone use while driving, and automatic Salik tolls. See the Dubai parking guide for details.
Q: What’s the minimum age to rent a car?
A: The minimum age to rent is typically 21, but depending on the rental company, it may vary.
Q: Can I drive in Dubai with a US license?
A: Yes, a US license is accepted without an international driving permit if in English. Always carry your valid license.
Q: Do I need an IDP if my license is not in English?
A: Yes, if your license is not in English, you’ll need an IDP to drive a car legally in Dubai.
Q: Can I drive in Dubai without an IDP?
A: Dubai with an international permit is required for non-English/Arabic licenses. A car without an IDP may not be available for rent if your license is required to be translated.
Conclusion
Understanding whether you need a valid overseas driving permit ensures stress-free driving in a foreign country like the United Arab Emirates. Whether you’re a tourist exploring Dubai or an expat seeking an option to rent a car, the right documents and a trusted car rental company are key. Rentico offers flexible payments, skips deposits, and delivers rental cars across Dubai, letting you focus on the road.
