Driving: licence swap and a car

You can drive a hire car on your UK licence when you first arrive as a visitor. Once your residence is issued, swap it for a UAE licence before you drive again: no test needed.

Last checked 29 Sep 2026·Information, not advice

In 30 seconds

Swapping a UK licence costs AED 1,050, including an eye test
Most people lease or rent a car for the first few months, then buy
The law on drink-driving is zero tolerance: any alcohol at all is illegal

Licence swapAED 1,050Including eye test

Salik tollAED 4–6Per crossing

PetrolAbout AED 3.80A litre, Sept 2026

Swapping your licence

Wait until your residence is issued
Have an eye test at an approved optician
Apply online with the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) or at a service centre
Bring your Emirates ID and UK licence

Once your residence is issued you can’t keep driving on your UK licence, even if your Emirates ID card hasn’t arrived yet. Use taxis or the Metro until you’ve swapped it.

Renting or buying a car

Option	Good for
Monthly rental	Your first few months, while you settle
Lease	Fixed monthly cost, often with insurance and servicing
Buying	Cheapest over a few years. Registration costs AED 200–1,300 plus plates, and older cars need a technical check

Salik: Dubai’s road tolls

You need a Salik tag on your windscreen. It costs AED 100, including AED 50 of tolls. Each toll gate costs AED 6 at weekday peaks, AED 4 at other times and nothing from 1am to 6am. Rental cars add tolls to your bill.

Rules that differ from the UK

Zero tolerance on alcohol. Fines are AED 20,000–100,000 and your licence is suspended
Speed cameras are everywhere
Rude gestures and swearing at other drivers are crimes
If you have a minor accident with no injuries, move the cars and report it in the Dubai Police app

What to do next

Book an eye test once your residence is issued
Rent monthly at first rather than buying straight away
Get a Salik tag for any car you buy

Sources

Last checked 29 Sep 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the official source before you act. Spotted something out of date? Email hello@theglobalocal.com.