Can I Rent a Car in Dubai if My Driver’s License is Not in English?

Visitors and business people prefer to rent cars in Dubai. This is because of the excellent roads and new car models in the emirate. However, getting through the conditions of renting a car may be problematic, including questions about the legitimacy of a driver’s license of the foreign state. People have questions about driving and renting a car in Dubai. They have a non-English license from another country.

International Driving Permit 

If your license is in a language other than English, you require an IDP (International Driving Permit). Despite this, the IDP is a document that translates your license information into multiple languages, English included and accepted by car rental companies in Dubai. As an IDP is an identification document that works alongside the original license, one needs to carry both while operating a vehicle.

Accepted Licenses Without IDP

Some nationals do not need an IDP. Some countries like the United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada and some parts of Europe have reciprocal arrangements, where citizens can use their domestic driver’s license without having to acquire an IDP. It is however recommended that an individual contacts the car rental company to find out if his/her license is regarded as this type.

Must Read: Can Visitors Use an International Driver's License to Rent a Car in Dubai?

Translation of Non-English Licenses

If your license is in a language that is different from English, or is from a country not on the list of exemptions, a probative copy of the driver’s license may be requested. This translation should be done by a legally sworn translator or your country’s embassy. Which can be very useful if translated to the local language so that the renting process can be easy and there is conformity to the laws of that country.

Documentation and Requirements

To rent a car in Dubai, you are required to provide several documents. Let's list the documents you need. Such documents can often mean your initial driver’s license, the IDP or translated license if needed, the valid passport, and, in some cases, credit cards. The credit card is generally needed for security deposit and payments for the temporary use of the card. Make sure that you have valid documents such as passport or ID when you start your rental period and that these documents are still valid the time you leave the country.

Must Read: What Papers Do I Need to Rent a Car in Dubai?

Rental Company Policies

Various car rental firms in Dubai may have different requirements for the driver’s license. It is always advisable to consult the particular rental company on the phone or better yet, better still check with their website to ascertain if they have any special conditions. Some firms might provide help to get the necessary papers or additional recommendations for foreign citizens.

Driving in Dubai

After you have effectively rented the car it is advisable to go through the driving rules and regulations in the streets of Dubai. Road traffic laws are very strong in Dubai and any violation of the set standards attracts high cash penalties. Ensure to have your driver’s license, international driver’s license if the license you are using is not recognizable in that country or the translation of the license from the one recognizable in that country and be ready with your passport while driving. Thus, the measures regarding slowing down, seat belts, and no use of mobile phones while driving are important for safe journeying on Dubai roads and highways.

Must Read: Can I Drive a Rental Car Outside of Dubai?

Conclusion

All in all, it should be stated that it is possible to rent a car in Dubai with a non-English driver’s license, but it will require some more actions. To avoid any complications during rental, you can either present an IDP or a translation of your license. However, it is advisable to liaise with the specific car rental company of your choice to establish their specific requirements as well as main prohibitions to avert any embarrassments. If you properly prepare for it, driving and discovering the sights around Dubai will surely be easier for you.