South Africa licence United Arab Emirates
South Africa licence 
United Arab EmiratesDriving in United Arab Emirates with a South Africa license
IDP Required
Yes — to drive in United Arab Emirates on an South Africa licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your South Africa licence. United Arab Emirates expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.
Convention basisUnited Arab Emirates recognises the 1968 Vienna Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
At the rental deskDubai and Abu Dhabi desks require an IDP for most non-GCC licences.
CarryCarry BOTH your South Africa national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25
Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)
FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits
Last verified June 2026Source: 1968 Vienna Convention
South African drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their licence when driving abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the 1968 Vienna format and carried alongside your national licence.
Driving rules in United Arab Emirates
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law while driving.
- Extensive speed-camera (radar) enforcement.
- Salik electronic tolls in Dubai.
- Tailgating and lane discipline strictly fined.
Common questions
01
Do I need an IDP to drive in United Arab Emirates with a South Africa license?
Yes — to drive in United Arab Emirates on an South Africa licence you should carry an International Driving Permit together with your South Africa licence. United Arab Emirates expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP.
02
What IDP format does United Arab Emirates accept?
United Arab Emirates recognises the 1968 Vienna Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
03
Do I still carry my South Africa license?
Carry BOTH your South Africa national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
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