Whether you have just arrived in the UAE and are keen to get on the road immediately, or have lived here a while and finally decided to switch from taxis/Uber/Careem/the Metro to a ride of your own, we have all the information right here so that you can get your licence in order.
The process can be confusing to the uninitiated, and there are different rules depending on your passport and whether you hold a licence in your own (or any other) country, so read on to see which apply to you.
For those who are either used to stick-shifting their way around town or simply prefer the purist side of driving, we also explain what you need to do to up your game should you have learnt to drive in an automatic car.
And there is plenty of advice on the downloads you need to make you 'appy as you navigate the UAE's roads, from the practical to the recreational – load the App Store/Google Play/your phone's app shop of choice right now, then get going...
In this guide:
- An essential guide to getting your UAE driver's licence, whether you can transfer or need to start from scratch
- Want to shift up a gear? Here's how to switch your licence from auto to manual
- The essential motoring apps you need in the UAE
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Need to make a U-turn? Return to our Ultimate Guide to Motoring in the UAE
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Need directions? Take the next click
Hitting the road: Owners (or renters) manual for the Emirates
The great UAE commute: Everyday laws, quirks and practicalities
Pleasure drive: Our guide to the best on and off-road experiences the Emirates has to offer
