Flying from Dubai? Get your international driving permit in just 5 minutes
GDRFA Dubai brings instant services to DXB
DUBAI – Dubai travellers can now obtain an international driving permit at Dubai International Airport in just five minutes under a new service launched by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, GDRFA Dubai.
The instant service has been introduced in collaboration with Amer and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, RTA. The initiative is designed to make it easier for eligible passengers to secure the document before travelling abroad.
The service is available at Dubai International Airport, adding a new option for travellers who require an International Driving Permit before departure. The launch brings together immigration, customer service and transport authorities as Dubai continues to expand services aimed at simplifying the passenger journey.
New 5-minute service
GDRFA Dubai has launched the instant International Driving Permit service at Dubai International Airport, with the process taking just five minutes.
The new facility is intended to help travellers complete the required procedure at the airport instead of arranging the permit well in advance of their journey. The service is being provided in collaboration with Amer and the RTA.
Dubai's GDRFA operates an Airport Services Centre at Terminal 3, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, according to its official portal.
The launch also follows GDRFA Dubai's wider push to introduce faster and more flexible airport services. Earlier this month, the authority launched its “Click & Travel” mobile service, which enables passport officers to reach passengers and complete entry or departure procedures using mobile devices and biometric verification.
Who can apply?
The RTA's existing International Driving Licence service is available to UAE citizens and residents who hold a valid driving licence issued in Dubai. Applicants must also settle any outstanding driving licence fines before completing the application.
Under the RTA's published service rules, the International Driving Licence is valid for one year and can be used when driving outside the UAE. Travellers must carry the original International Driving Licence together with their original UAE driving licence, as the IDP is valid only when presented alongside it.
The RTA currently lists the standard fee for an International Driving Licence at Dh197, including Dh177 for the licence and Dh20 in Knowledge and Innovation fees. Additional charges may apply depending on the delivery option selected through the existing RTA service.
The new five-minute airport service gives eligible travellers another option for obtaining an International Driving Permit immediately before an overseas trip.
Until now, the RTA's published online service has listed a service time of two working days, with applications submitted through its digital channels and the original document collected or delivered through the available options.