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hi my name is piers and i am from the uk but planning to move to dubai with family in the next couple of months, i was wondering if you could fill me in with your general experience of life in dubai as an expat, how do you like it? was it a big culture shock? what are the people like etc?

also i have a british driving license, is it possible to drive over there with that or do you need a UAE license?

thanks for any help! hopefully see you all soon!

piers

use the search function and read some of the other postings to gain a feel for Dubai.

If you are on a UK license and have a UK passport, you can convert to a UAE licence with no problems.

You can hire a car on UK licence, but can only drive in Dubai, to insure a car you need a UAE licence.

Have you visited Dubai yet - that will answer your questions regarding culture.

Loads of Brits here - me included

Hey Piers and family!!

I am leaving the UK next week for Dubai!

Loads of things on here to read about Dubai - living, culture, experiences, have a good read!
Ohh and there are a few great expats on here, to make friends with!

Good Luck and Take Care

[quote="The Major"]
If you are on a UK license and have a UK passport, you can convert to a UAE licence with no problems.

You can hire a car on UK licence, but can only drive in Dubai, to insure a car you need a UAE licence.

Yes you are right.
Another solution consist on to get an international driving licence before to leave from UK, it's fast and simple. Then it's possible to drive in the others emirates because of time takes to get UAE licence.

Welcome to everybody come in to Dubai !

plein_soleil wrote:

The Major wrote:If you are on a UK license and have a UK passport, you can convert to a UAE licence with no problems.

You can hire a car on UK licence, but can only drive in Dubai, to insure a car you need a UAE licence.

Yes you are right.
Another solution consist on to get an international driving licence before to leave from UK, it's fast and simple. Then it's possible to drive in the others emirates because of time takes to get UAE licence.

Welcome to everybody come in to Dubai !

Also note that you are only allowed to drive on your UK / International Licence until you get a residence permit, then you must get a UAE licence.

i heard the option to 'convert' your uk licence directly to a UAE one (upon receival of residence visa) was no longer available. you HAVE to get an international licence before coming here now. this came in a few months agi i think, but i came 7 months ago so it didnt apply then