UAE citizens and residents holding a valid UAE driving licence can obtain an International Driving Permit within five minutes at Dubai International Airport, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) announced on Monday, 14 September 2026.
The service, operational round the clock at the Customer Happiness Centre in Terminal 3 arrivals, is a joint effort by GDRFA Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club and the Amer Centre. It aims to streamline travel preparation by allowing eligible motorists to secure an IDP before departure.
Applicants must present an Emirates ID, a current UAE driving licence, a passport copy and a personal photograph. Digital integration among the partners enables electronic verification of the information, resulting in approval and issuance of the permit in just five minutes.
Major General Khalaf Ahmed Al Ghaith, Assistant Director‑General for the Entry Permits and Residence Sector at GDRFA Dubai, highlighted that the initiative reflects Dubai's commitment to delivering proactive government services where they are most needed. He described the airport‑based offering as part of a broader smart‑travel ecosystem that places services at the right place and time.
Ahmed Mahboob, Executive Director of the Licensing Agency at the RTA, added that the collaboration improves the customer experience by providing an instant solution at a key travel hub. The launch aligns with Dubai authorities' ongoing push to expand digitally connected services, making travel‑related procedures faster and more convenient for citizens, residents and visitors alike.
Travelers can now simply tap a screen, press “Add” on Google and walk away with an International Driving Permit, eliminating the need to visit separate offices before a trip.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Siasat Gulf