UAE Eases License Rules for Tourists from 52 Countries

The United Arab Emirates has officially launched the Markhoos Initiative, a move that significantly streamlines driving procedures for international visitors. Under this new policy, the UAE will recognize driving licenses from 52 countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada, and most EU nations. This development makes it easier than ever for eligible tourists and business travelers to drive legally without needing to apply for a temporary UAE driving license.

This announcement is a major step in enhancing the UAE’s appeal as a tourist- and investor-friendly destination. With over 20 million tourists visiting annually and a growing population of digital nomads and business professionals, driving access was long considered a bureaucratic hurdle for short-term stays.

Markhoos Initiative: Who Can Benefit?

The Markhoos Initiative  is tailored for visitors and temporary residents from approved countries. Travelers arriving with a valid driving license from one of the listed 52 countries can now rent and drive vehicles across all seven Emirates without needing additional approvals. This means less paperwork, lower costs, and improved mobility for tourists and professionals alike.

Markhoos Initiative: Key Benefits

• No need for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you’re from an eligible country.

• Faster vehicle rental procedures at airports and tourist hubs.

• Greater convenience for expatriates on short-term contracts or business assignments.

The Ministry of Interior has emphasized that this initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to create a seamless, smart government experience. It also complements other digital services that have made visa applications, toll payments, and residency permits easier to manage for foreigners.

Markhoos Initiative: Eligible Countries

Approved from Official UAE Ministry of Interior portal.

Read More:

How to Apply: Emirates Group to Hire 17,300 Professionals Across 350 Roles

Spouse Visa UAE: How to Sponsor Family in UAE

Recognition and Exchange of Driving Licenses in the UAE

The Ministry outlines two distinct processes for foreign driving licenses: recognition and exchange, each with specific conditions based on the individual’s status.

Recognition

This applies to non-residents or visitors in the UAE. Under this policy, visitors may drive using their national driving licenses without the need for tests or a UAE license, as long as they are not residing in the country.

Exchange

This applies to UAE residents who hold a valid foreign driving license. They may exchange their national license for a UAE license without theory or road tests, provided they meet eligibility criteria and have obtained a UAE residence permit.

Both recognition and exchange apply primarily to light vehicles and motorcycles, subject to bilateral agreements or memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the UAE and the license-issuing countries.

Requirements for License Exchange (Residents)

To exchange a foreign driving license for a UAE license, the applicant must:

1. Hold citizenship of a country approved for license exchange with the UAE.

2. Possess a valid UAE residence permit.

3. Have a valid and permanent national driving license.

4. Be at least 17 years old.

5. Pass a vision (medical) test.

6. Fulfill all additional legal and administrative requirements as specified by authorities.

7. Surrender the original license, if required by bilateral agreements between the UAE and the issuing country.

Final Thoughts

The Markhoos Initiative is not just a tourism boost; it’s part of a larger shift toward global integration and smart mobility. By recognizing foreign licenses, the UAE continues to position itself as one of the most accessible and innovation-driven countries in the world.