Driving in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. If you are a Qatari resident planning to drive in the UAE, you may be wondering if driving in UAE with Qatar license is possible. Read on to know.
Can I Drive in UAE With Qatar License?
If you are a visitor in the UAE with a Qatar driving license, and wondering if you can drive there, the answer is yes. However there are some important things you need to know.
The first thing to note is that you may only drive with a Qatar driving license in the UAE while on a visit visa.
If you plan to stay in the UAE for a long time, you will need a residence permit. Once you have a UAE residence permit, you cannot use a Qatar driving license.
In that case, you need to exchange your Qatar license for a UAE license, which can be done without a driving test.
Driving In UAE With Qatar License
According to the UAE government’s official website, residents of GCC countries can drive in the UAE with their driving license issued by the country they reside in.
As a visitor, passports and visas must always be carried, as you may need to present them at checkpoints. The UAE also requires that you be at least 18 years old to drive.
While driving in the UAE with a Qatar driving license is allowed, there are some restrictions. For example, if you are planning to drive a UAE resident’s private vehicle, you need to check with their insurance provider if it is covered.
UAE car rental companies usually allow tourists to drive with Qatar licenses. According to Hertz Car Rentals the original license should be from the same country as the customer’s residence visa.
You can drive a Qatar-registered car in the UAE, but ensure you have UAE-valid motor insurance.
How To Exchange Qatar Driving License In UAE
If you are a new resident in the UAE and hold a driving license from Qatar you may be eligible to directly exchange your previous license for the UAE license.
Driving licenses issued by GCC countries must be valid upon their replacement. Original licenses are withdrawn from their holders. You would also need to undergo an eye test.
To apply for a exchange of a driving license in UAE, you must submit the following documents:
- Original driving license
- Eye test
- Original valid Emirates ID
- Passport copy
- Passport size photos
The application process will be different depending on the Emirates you live. For instance, in Dubai, you can apply through the Road Transport Authority (RTA) website, while in Abu Dhabi, you can apply through the TAMM portal.
If you live in one of the Northern Emirates – Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah, you should apply through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal.
The cost for replacing a foreign driving license in UAE is AED 600. There may be additional charges for eye test and registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Qatar driving license valid in UAE?
You can drive in the UAE with a Qatar driving license while on a visit visa. However, once a residence permit is issued, it is illegal to drive using a Qatar driving license.
Can I drive in Qatar with UAE license?
While on a visit visa, you can drive in Qatar with your UAE driving license.
A UAE driving license cannot be used once a Qatar ID has been issued.
Can I change my Qatar driving license to UAE?
Yes, a Qatari driver’s license can be directly exchanged for an UAE driving license when you become a new resident in the UAE. The process will be different depending on the Emirates you live.
Related Articles:
- Driving in Qatar Rules for Visitors
- How To Get International Driving License in Qatar
- How To Change Driving Test Date in Qatar Using Metrash
- How To Get Driving Experience Certificate in Qatar
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