Converting your driving licence in the Gulf
Which licences convert without a test in each GCC country, and what to bring.
In short
Many nationalities can swap their licence directly for a Gulf one. Others must take lessons and a test. You can usually drive on a home or international licence only as a visitor, not after you become a resident.
- Direct swap
- EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia and more
- Others
- Lessons + theory + road test
- UAE cost
- Approx. AED 1,000 swap
- Driving side
- Right
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
Each country publishes a list of convertible licences.
Week 1
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Carry your licence and ID
- Install the traffic fines app
Don’t
- Don’t use your phone while driving
- Don’t flash, tailgate or make rude gestures – these are serious offences
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Zero tolerance for drink driving. Penalties include jail and deportation.
Common questions
Can I use my licence in other Gulf states?
Yes, a GCC licence is valid in all GCC countries as a visitor.
Official links
Background and more detail
The basics
Each country keeps its own list of licences that can be exchanged directly. Holders of other licences must take lessons and a test.
UAE
Many European, North American and some Asian licences can be exchanged at the RTA in Dubai or ITC in Abu Dhabi with an eye test and your Emirates ID.
Saudi Arabia
Licences from many countries can be converted through Absher and a traffic department visit. Women have been able to drive since 2018.
Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman
All allow conversion for an approved list of nationalities. Kuwait also applies salary and job title conditions for some expats.
Bring
- Original licence and a certified translation if not in English or Arabic
- Residence ID
- Eye test result
- Passport photos
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