Dubai International Airport has introduced a new service at Terminal 3 allowing residents to obtain an International Driving Permit in just five minutes.
- Available 24/7 at Terminal 3
- Takes only five minutes to complete
- Launched on September 14, 2026
The service, which became operational on September 14, 2026, is
available 24/7 to accommodate travelers with urgent trips and late-night flights. This initiative was announced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai via their official X account, in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority, the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club, and Amer Centers. The service is available to UAE citizens and expatriates who hold a valid UAE residence visa and a valid UAE driving license.
Applicants are required to
present their original UAE driving license, passport, and Emirates ID to utilize the facility at the GDRFA/Amer counter located at DXB Terminal 3. Fees for the service can be confirmed at the counter. This development is particularly significant for expatriates traveling to countries such as the United States, Canada, Germany, or various Gulf nations, where an IDP is frequently required alongside a UAE license for renting vehicles. Officials emphasize that an IDP does not replace a UAE driving license; it serves as a supporting document that must be used in conjunction with the original license. Travelers are advised to verify the specific legal requirements and driving regulations of their destination country before departing, as some jurisdictions may require additional translations or local licensing. Prior to this launch, residents were required to visit Amer Centers or RTA offices to obtain their permits. The new airport facility aims to streamline the process for travelers, including the large Indian and Filipino expatriate communities, by allowing them to secure documentation directly while at the airport.
