How to Convert Foreign Driving License to UAE License in Dubai & Abu Dhabi

Direct Foreign Driving License Conversion in Dubai & UAE

Expatriate residents in the United Arab Emirates holding driving licenses from approved countries can exchange their foreign license directly for a UAE Driving License without enrolling in mandatory driving classes or taking practical road tests. In Dubai, this service is managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), while in Abu Dhabi and other Emirates, it is handled via the TAMM platform and local police licensing departments.

List of Approved Countries for Direct License Exchange in UAE

Under bilateral agreements with the UAE Ministry of Interior, citizens of the following nations can convert their licenses directly:

• GCC Countries: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.
• European Nations: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Ireland, Austria, Portugal, Finland, Greece, Poland, Turkey.
• North America & Australasia: United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand.
• Asia & Others: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa.

Step-by-Step RTA Dubai License Conversion Process

1. Eye Test: Visit an RTA-approved optical center (Yateem Optician, Grand Optics, Barakat Optical, Al Jaber) to take an RTA electronic eye test (fee approx. AED 140-180). Results are uploaded directly to the RTA system.
2. Legal Translation (if non-English/Arabic): Have your license translated by an MOJ-certified legal translation service if it is not in English or Arabic.
3. Visit RTA Customer Happiness Center: Go to an RTA center (e.g., Al Barsha, Deira, Umm Ramool) with your Original Emirates ID, Original Foreign License, and Passport.
4. Pay RTA Conversion Fees: Total fee is approximately AED 870 (including file opening, handbook, knowledge/innovation fees, and card printing).
5. Receive License: Your 2-year valid UAE driving license is printed and handed to you in under 15 minutes.