Dubai’s RTA replaced over 58,000 foreign driving licences from 57 countries in 2025
United Kingdom tops list of countries using the exchange service
DUBAI – The Roads and Transport Authority replaced more than 58,000 foreign driving licences with UAE-issued licences in Dubai during 2025, reflecting continued demand for streamlined mobility services among residents and visitors.
A total of 58,082 licences were exchanged from drivers holding valid permits issued in 57 recognised countries. The service forms part of wider efforts to simplify procedures and enhance quality of life in the emirate.
The licence exchange programme operates under ministerial decisions and memoranda of understanding signed between the United Arab Emirates and participating countries. These agreements allow eligible drivers to convert their existing licences without undergoing a full driving test, provided all requirements are met.
Eligible countries
According to Sultan Al Akraf, Director of Drivers Licensing at the Licensing Agency of the RTA, the approved list includes five GCC countries, 38 European nations, 13 Asian and Latin American countries, and one African country. Recent additions during the current and previous year include Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, North Macedonia, the State of Texas in the United States, and Croatia.
He said the expansion of the list highlights Dubai’s commitment to serving a diverse, multinational community while strengthening international cooperation. The move also supports the emirate’s position as a preferred destination for living, working and long-term settlement.
How the service works
The driving licence replacement service is available through the RTA’s official website and Customer Happiness Centres across Dubai. Applicants are required to attend in person, complete an eye test at an approved vision testing centre, submit the application, present their original valid driving licence, and pay the prescribed fees.
The process is designed to be flexible and efficient, while ensuring that safety and regulatory standards are maintained. Only valid licences from approved jurisdictions are accepted for exchange.
Leading nationalities
By the end of December 2025, the United Kingdom ranked first among countries whose nationals used the service, with 13,165 licences replaced across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Türkiye followed with 6,838 replacements, while China ranked third with 5,300 licences exchanged.
The full list of recognised countries and detailed service information is available through the RTA’s official service portal.