Do UK Drivers Need an International Driving Permit for Dubai?
Planning to hire a car in Dubai? If you have a UK driving licence you DO need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Dubai and the rest of the UAE in 2026.
It's checked by the car hire company at DXB and DWC Airport and by Dubai Police if you are stopped. Without it your rental can be refused.
At VPS Rental Cars we compare 800+ suppliers at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum (DWC) to find you cheap Dubai car hire from £22/day.
Which IDP Do You Need for Dubai?
You need a 1968 IDP for Dubai and the UAE.
Don't get the 1949 or 1926 version - they are not valid in the UAE. The 1968 IDP is valid for 3 years or until your UK licence expires, whichever is soonest.
You need one IDP per driver.
What Happens If You Drive in Dubai Without an IDP?
- Your car hire supplier can refuse to give you the car - no refund
- Your insurance is invalid
- You can be fined by Dubai Police
- You cannot register a Salik toll tag properly
How to Get an IDP for Dubai in the UK
It's easy and takes 5 minutes at any Post Office:
- Take your UK photocard driving licence
- One passport-sized photo
- £5.50 fee
- Ask for a 1968 IDP for UAE / Dubai
No test needed. You can also get it by mail from the Post Office if you don't have a branch nearby.
Get it BEFORE you fly - you cannot get a UK IDP in Dubai.
Driving in Dubai - What UK Drivers Must Know
Dubai drives on the right side of the road - opposite to the UK.
- Zero tolerance on drink driving - absolutely no alcohol
- Speed limits: 60-80km/h in city, 100-120km/h on Sheikh Zayed Road and Abu Dhabi road
- Salik Tolls: 5 toll gates in Dubai, AED 4 per crossing. Your hire car has a Salik tag and the hire company bills you later
- Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
- Waze or Google Maps works perfectly for Salik and speed cameras
Do I Need an IDP with VPS Rental Cars?
Yes. All our Dubai suppliers - Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Thrifty and local suppliers - require a valid 1968 IDP with your UK licence at pick-up.
Book your cheap car hire in Dubai with VPS Rental Cars and you will see the IDP requirement listed on your voucher so there are no surprises at the desk.
FAQ
Is my UK photocard licence enough for Dubai?
No. Since Brexit, the UK licence alone is not enough for the UAE. You must have a 1968 IDP with it.
Can I drive in Dubai on a digital IDP?
No. Dubai requires the original paper IDP booklet, not a digital copy.
Do I need an IDP for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Hatta too?
Yes. The 1968 IDP covers all 7 Emirates.
Ready to go? Compare cheap car hire Dubai at DXB and DWC from £22/day with VPS Rental Cars.
