Dubai exchanges 58,000 foreign driving licences in 2025 across 57 countries

The licence exchanges covered driving permits issued in 57 countries that are recognised for replacement with a UAE driving licence, in line with ministerial decisions and memoranda of understanding signed between the UAE and the relevant countries.

Sultan Al Akraf, Director of Drivers Licensing at the Licensing Agency, RTA, said the list of countries whose citizens are eligible to replace their licences includes:

• Five GCC countries
• 38 European countries
• 13 Asian and Latin American countries
• One African country

He noted that the most recent additions during the current and previous year include Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, North Macedonia, the State of Texas, and Croatia.

He said these additions reinforce Dubai’s approach to supporting international cooperation and serving community members of diverse nationalities, in line with the emirate’s position as a preferred global destination for living, working, and achieving quality of life.

Al Akraf said the foreign driving licence replacement service is available through RTA’s website or via Customer Happiness Centres across Dubai.

Driving licences in Dubai

The procedure requires applicants to undergo an eye test at one of the approved vision testing centres, submit the application, present the original driving licence to be replaced, and pay the prescribed fees, provided the licence is valid and the applicant attends in person.

He added that the initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision of delivering flexible and efficient services and strengthening its position as a leading global destination for working, living, and seamless mobility with ease and comfort.

RTA said the full list of countries whose driving licences are recognised for replacement with a UAE driving licence is available through its official service channels online.