Obtaining a driving license in the UAE is a top priority for many expats. While most residents need to go through several tests to obtain their driving license, there are specific countries whose license holders are exempt from these requirements.
Dubai Newsweek explores this unique opportunity for residents from 43 countries to exchange their driving licenses without the need for additional testing.
‘Markhoos’ Initiative
The Ministry of Interior (MoI) in the UAE has introduced a helpful initiative known as “Markhoos.”
This programme allows expats holding valid driving licenses from certain countries to either drive in the UAE with their national license or exchange it for a UAE driving license if they possess a residence permit. This initiative simplifies the process for many expats, enabling them to get on the road faster and with less hassle.
List of countries exempt from driving license tests
Residents from the following 43 countries can swap their national driving licenses for a UAE license:
- Estonia
- Albania
- Portugal
- China
- Hungary
- Greece
- Ukraine
- Bulgaria
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Serbia
- Cyprus
- Latvia
- Luxembourg
- Lithuania
- Malta
- Iceland
- Montenegro
- United States of America
- France
- Japan
- Belgium
- Switzerland
- Germany
- Italy
- Sweden
- Ireland
- Spain
- Norway
- New Zealand
- Romania
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Netherlands
- Denmark
- Austria
- Finland
- United Kingdom
- Turkey
- Canada
- Poland
- South Africa
- Australia
This list reflects the MoI’s commitment to making driving in the UAE more accessible for residents from these countries, eliminating the need for extensive testing.
Benefits of the ‘Markhoos’ initiative
- Time-Saving: Expats can bypass the lengthy driving test process, allowing them to obtain a UAE driving license more quickly.
- Cost-Effective: Avoiding test fees and other related expenses makes this initiative financially beneficial for many residents.
- Convenience: Exchanging a national license simplifies the transition for expats moving to the UAE, enabling them to drive legally without delay.
- Increased Mobility: With a UAE driving license, residents gain the freedom to travel around the country, enhancing their overall living experience.
- Safety Assurance: The initiative ensures that drivers have already demonstrated their ability to drive in their home countries, maintaining road safety standards.
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How to exchange your driving license
To take advantage of this opportunity, follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that your home country is on the list of eligible countries.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including your national driving license, residence permit, and any identification documents required by the MoI.
- Visit an MoI Service Center: Go to an MoI service center to submit your application for the license exchange.
- Complete the Process: Follow any additional instructions provided by the MoI staff to finalize your new UAE driving license.
FAQs
FAQs
1. Do I need to take a test to exchange my license?
A: No, residents from the 43 listed countries are exempt from taking a driving test.
2. Is the ‘Markhoos’ initiative applicable for all expats?
No, it specifically applies to expats from the 43 eligible countries listed by the MoI.
3. What documents do I need for the license exchange?
You will need your national driving license, residence permit, and valid identification.
4. How long does the exchange process take?
The process is generally quick, often completed in one visit to the MoI service center.
5. Can I drive in the UAE with just my national license?
Yes, as long as your national license is from one of the eligible countries and you hold a residence permit.
6. What if my country is not on the list?
If your country is not listed, you will need to follow the standard procedures, which may include taking a driving test.
7. Is there a fee for exchanging my license?
Yes, there may be a nominal fee for processing the exchange, but it is typically less than the total cost of taking a driving test.
8. Can I use my old license once I have the UAE license?
No, once you exchange your license, your old license will be canceled.
9. What if I lose my national driving license during the process?
It’s advisable to report the loss to the relevant authorities in your home country and obtain a replacement before starting the exchange process.
10. How often is the list of eligible countries updated?
The list is maintained by the MoI and may change based on international agreements and regulations, so it’s a good idea to check their website regularly.
By understanding the ‘Markhoos’ initiative and its benefits, expats can take advantage of this opportunity to drive in the UAE more easily and enjoy their time in the country.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
