Driving in United Arab Emirates

International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians.

Yes — Australians need an International Driving Permit for United Arab Emirates.

Australians need a 1949 Geneva Convention IDP to hire a car in the UAE, carried with your Australian licence.

Drives on the rightOpposite to Australia
Minimum age 21Many hire companies require 25 for larger vehicles.
$45 – $90Typical daily hire
IDP required1949 Geneva Convention

What Australian drivers need to know

  • Traffic fines are automated and heavy — speed cameras are everywhere and hire companies pass fines on with an admin fee.
  • Salik road tolls are billed to the vehicle automatically.
  • Zero tolerance on drink driving — the limit is 0.00.
  • Careem and Uber both operate and are inexpensive.

How to get an International Driving Permit in Australia

Only the state and territory motoring clubs affiliated with the Australian Automobile Association can issue one — NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT and AANT. It costs around $49, you don't need to be a member, and it's valid for 12 months.

You cannot get one once you have left Australia. Apply at least two weeks before you fly.

Read the full IDP guide

Insurance warning. Australian travel insurance policies exclude claims from driving or riding without a valid licence for that vehicle in that country. A car licence does not cover a scooter — hiring one in United Arab Emirates without a motorcycle class on your Australian licence means an accident is entirely uninsured.

More United Arab Emirates essentials

Entry requirements Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders. Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Travel essentials Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.

United Arab Emirates driving FAQs

Do I need an IDP to hire a car in the UAE?

Yes. Australians need a 1949 Geneva Convention International Driving Permit, obtained from a state motoring club before leaving Australia, carried with your Australian licence.

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