Driving licence in Dubai: everything you need to know about converting your French driving licence

Converting your French driving licence: a simple but regulated process

French residents in Dubai have the opportunity to exchange their driving license for a local one, without taking an exam or driving test. This applies to countries on the official list of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), including France.
However, this conversion is only available to holders of a valid residence visa and an Emirates ID . Without these documents, the application is automatically rejected.

Conditions to be met

• To be an official resident of the Emirates.

• Possess a valid and current French driving licence .

• Have your vision tested at a center approved by the RTA.

• Provide all original documents required.

Required documents

• French driving licence (original).

• Passport and residence visa.

• Emirates ID.

• Recent passport photo.

• Result of the visual test.

• Official translation of the permit into English or Arabic, if requested.

Once the file is complete, the application can be submitted directly to an RTA service center, via the mobile application or a smart kiosk .

Cost and deadlines

The total amount of the conversion generally varies between 1,100 and 1,300 AED (approximately €280 to €330).
The new Emirati permit is often issued on the same day if the file is complete, or within 24 to 48 hours in case of high demand.

Key steps in the conversion process: visual testing, translation, and RTA submission

An eye test is mandatory, regardless of your profile. It is carried out in approved centers such as Yateem or Al Jaber Opticals, for a cost between 130 and 180 AED .
The results are transmitted directly to the RTA system.

The license translation must be done by a translator accredited by the Ministry of Justice. Although some agencies accept the French document without translation, it is advisable to arrange for one (average cost: 100 to 200 AED).

Once the test and translation are completed, simply go to the RTA counter with all the required documents. After paying the administrative fees (approximately 870 AED) , the UAE permit is printed and given to the applicant.

Expert tip: Prepare the translation and visual test in advance to avoid back‑and‑forth communication. These two steps determine the speed of processing.

If your license is not convertible: you must go through an approved driving school.

Nationals of countries not eligible for conversion must obtain their local license by completing a full training and examination program at an RTA‑accredited driving school, such as Emirates Driving Institute or Galadari.

Stages of the journey

1. Registration requires presentation of passport, visa, Emirates ID and eye test.

2. Theoretical courses (10 to 12 hours, often available online).

3. Theoretical exam on a computer.

4. Practical courses – between 10 and 40 hours depending on the driver's experience.

5. Final tests : parking and road driving, supervised by the RTA.
   
   
   

Budget and deadlines

The total cost varies from 4,500 to 7,000 AED (1,100 to 1,800 €), depending on the profile and the driving school chosen.
The average time to obtain the license is one to two months, provided you pass the exams on the first attempt.

Practical tip: choose a driving school close to your home. Frequent travel for practical lessons can quickly become a burden.

Steps common to all candidates

Whether you are making a conversion or a complete journey, the basic formalities remain the same:

• Residence visa and Emirates ID required.

• Systematic visual testing.

• RTA file to be opened with payment of the corresponding fees.

• Official translation of the permit if necessary.

• Verification of the authenticity of the documents before printing the final permit.

Tip: Always keep a digital and paper version of all your documents in a dedicated folder. In case of an audit or loss, this precaution will save you valuable time.

Why an Emirati driver's license is essential in Dubai

Having a local driver's license is not just a matter of legal compliance: it is a prerequisite for driving and getting insured with complete peace of mind.

Vehicle rental

Rental agencies require a UAE driver's license for any rental exceeding one month. Foreign licenses are only accepted for short tourist stays. However, a local license grants access to a wider selection of vehicles and more favorable rates.

Car insurance

Insurance companies often refuse to cover drivers with foreign licenses. In the event of an accident, a French license offers no guarantee of compensation .
An Emirati driving licence is therefore essential to be fully covered and avoid any dispute in the event of an accident.

In conclusion: an essential step to integrate into Dubai

Converting your French driver's license or obtaining an Emirati one is an essential formality for any long‑term relocation to Dubai. This process not only grants access to transportation but also to essential services such as car insurance and long‑term car rental.

For new residents, understanding these procedures beforehand helps avoid costly mistakes and saves valuable time. As part of a comprehensive relocation—including housing, transportation, and administrative processes—the support of experts familiar with the local market remains a crucial advantage.