In 2025, the UAE took another step towards welcoming foreign tourists and residents by significantly simplifying the rules for driving for citizens of 52 countries. Find out which countries are included in the list of 52 states whose citizens can drive in the UAE without a local license or exams. All about the new rules, driver's license exchange, cost, documents and amenities for tourists and residents

The United Arab Emirates has made life easier for foreigners planning to travel or relocate to the country. As part of the Markhoos initiative, a new policy has been introduced that allows citizens of 52 countries to drive in the UAE without the need to take a driving test or obtain a local license. They can either temporarily use their national licenses while traveling, or exchange them for a UAE license after obtaining residency status.

The initiative is part of the country’s digital transformation and is designed to make government services more accessible to tourists, new residents and UAE citizens abroad.

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What the new rule entails: two main scenarios

1. For visitors: use of national licenses without exams

Tourists from countries on the approved list can now freely rent and drive a car in the UAE without obtaining a local license. It is enough to have a valid driving license from their country that covers the appropriate type of transport (cars or motorcycles).

Basic conditions:

- You are not a resident of the UAE;

- Your license is issued in one of the 52 countries;

- The license must be valid;

- You can only drive the vehicles specified in the license.

Tip: Always carry your passport and driving license with you. This will simplify communication with the police in case of a check.

2. For residents: exchange of licenses without passing tests

Foreigners who have obtained residency status in the UAE can exchange their national license for a UAE driving license without passing a theoretical or practical exam.

Requirements for exchange:

- Valid residence permit in the UAE;

- Valid driving license from a country that meets the requirements;

- Age from 17 years;

- Passing an eye test;

- Translation and submission of documents via the online platform MuroorKhous.

How to apply for a license exchange?

The procedure is completely digital and takes a minimum of time. Steps:

1. Go to the MuroorKhous platform;

2. Upload a copy of the original ID and its translation;

3. Pay the service fee – 600 UAE dirhams;

4. Choose the method of receipt: electronic or courier delivery.

Full list of countries whose citizens can use or exchange rights

Among the 52 countries are most of the European states, as well as countries in Asia, North America, Oceania and Africa:

Europe: Ukraine, Poland, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Great Britain, Sweden, Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Denmark, Greece, Czech Republic, Croatia, Slovakia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Malta, Luxembourg, Belgium, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Ireland, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo, Cyprus.

Asia: Japan, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus.

America and Oceania: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand.

Middle East and Africa: Israel, South Africa.

Note: South Korea only allows exchange of licenses for residents – tourists are not allowed to drive with a domestic license.

Why is this important?

For tourists:

- No more temporary permits.

- Simplified car rental.

- You can travel throughout the country without restrictions.

For residents:

- No tests or driving schools.

- Quick online license exchange.

For UAE citizens:

- Ability to use your license abroad in partner countries.

- If the country does not recognize the UAE license, you can get an international driver’s license.

The new UAE policy is a step towards mobility and convenience. If you are planning a trip or relocation, check if your country is on the list and enjoy all the benefits of a simplified regime. Less bureaucracy means more freedom on the roads of the Emirates.

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Reminder! From August 10, 2025, the UAE is introducing new visas for AI professionals, cruise tourists, gamers and event visitors, as well as tightening rules for business, family visits and freelancers. For all the latest changes, follow the link.

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