Why you need an international driving permit for car rentals in Dubai.

If you are planning to rent a car during your trip to Dubai (or elsewhere in the United Arab Emirates), it’s important to understand the driving licence rules – particularly the role of a International Driving Permit (IDP). Many tourists mistakenly assume that showing their local national driving licence is sufficient, but the reality is more nuanced. According to the local driving and rental‑car regulations, renting and legally driving a vehicle as a visitor often requires both your home‑country licence and an IDP. Rentico+3Gulf News+3Khaleej Times+3

What the Rule Says

• The UAE is party to road‑traffic conventions (such as the Vienna Convention) and requires foreign visitors to hold a valid IDP when driving non‑UAE rental vehicles, especially if their home‑country licence is not on a recognised list or is not in English/Arabic. Khaleej Times+1
• Many car rental companies in Dubai will not rent a vehicle unless the driver presents both their national driving licence and the IDP. Without the IDP, even if the rental is done, the insurance may not cover the vehicle and the driver may run the risk of the driving being considered illegal. Gulf News+2RentRadar+2
• However, there is a “recognised‑licence” list (sometimes referred to as the “Markhoos” list) of about 50+ countries whose standard driving licences (in English or Arabic) are accepted without an IDP for short visits. For people from other countries or who hold licences not in those languages, an IDP is mandatory. The Times of India+2Rentico+2 

• Why It Matters – Risks of Not Having an IDP

  • Without a valid IDP where required, you may be refused rental or you may drive illegally, which can lead to hefty fines, voided insurance claims in case of accidents, vehicle impoundment and even administrative detention. Khaleej Times+1

  • Rental companies point out that even if you “get away” with renting, in the event of a police check or accident you may find your insurance won’t cover you and you’ll be personally liable. Gulf News+1

  • For example, one article states: “In the event of a traffic accident… the police inspection, insurance claim or court uses the IDP to verify the driver’s eligibility, and driving without an IDP is treated as driving without a valid licence.” Gulf News

  How to Know If You Need one

  • If your home‑country driving licence is in English or Arabic and your country is on the recognised list — you may rent without an IDP. falcon-rides.com

  • If your licence is not in English/Arabic, or your country is not on the recognised list — you will almost certainly need an IDP. Rentico+1

  • Always check with the rental company in advance because they may apply stricter requirements than the minimum legal ones. Rental company websites warn that licences from countries like India, Pakistan, Russia etc. will require an IDP. Pilot & Car | Chauffeur Service Dubai+1

  Practical Tips for Tourists Renting a Car in Dubai

  • Before travelling, find out whether your national licence qualifies you to drive in the UAE without an IDP. If not, obtain the IDP in your home country. Some services permit fast issuance (even online) prior to travel. Khaleej Times+1

  • When you pick up the rental car, you’ll typically need to provide: your passport (with valid visit visa), your national licence, your IDP (if required), a credit card in your name for the security deposit, and the rental agreement itself. Gulf News+1

  • When driving, keep the licence and IDP together in the vehicle. Any mismatch (for example your name not matching on the documents) can trigger refusal of service or enforcement issues. Pilot & Car | Chauffeur Service Dubai

  • Avoid relying on rental companies that claim “we’ll sort the IDP later”. If they rent you a car without proper documentation, you may face serious risk if stopped by police. Choose reputable rental firms.

  • If your country is on the recognised list and you do not need an IDP, it’s still wise to carry one — it removes ambiguity and may reduce complications with the insurance provider or rental company.

  Bottom Line

  If you plan to rent a car and drive in Dubai (or elsewhere in the UAE) as a tourist, you must check whether your driving licence is accepted without an IDP. In many cases the combination of your licence + IDP is mandatory. Failure to comply may invalidate your rental, leave you uninsured and open to expensive fines or worse. By arranging all documents in advance, you’ll ensure smoother and safer mobility during your stay.