Dubai airport introduces five-minute international driving permit service for travellers

In a major boost for outbound travellers, UAE citizens and residents can now obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in just five minutes at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The instant service streamlines travel procedures and offers ultimate convenience to passengers right before they fly.

This rapid service is the result of a collaborative effort between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club, and the Amer Emirates Businessmen Services Centre. The facility is located at the Customer Happiness Centre in the Arrivals hall of Terminal 3 at DXB and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Documents required for the instant permit
To secure an international driving licence through this service, applicants need to provide their Emirates ID, a valid UAE driving licence, a copy of their passport, and a passport-size photograph. Because the participating government entities' digital systems are fully integrated, applicant data is verified automatically, enabling near-instant approvals.

Elevating the travel experience
Major General Khalaf Ahmed Al Ghaith, Assistant Director General for Entry Permits and Residency at GDRFA Dubai, emphasised that introducing this service at the airport aligns with Dubai’s vision to digitise the travel experience and offer highly proactive services to residents and citizens.

Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the RTA Licensing Agency, praised the initiative as an outstanding example of seamless cooperation between government departments. He noted that providing such instantaneous services at a major international transport hub significantly reduces stress for travellers, ensuring they can complete essential pre-travel documentation on the go.