The Best Driving Schools in Dubai

 

If you live in Dubai or are planning to relocate to the emirate, acquiring a UAE driving license is very important. Despite Dubai's robust public transportation network linking major destinations, the convenience and freedom offered by owning a car are undeniable. Fortunately, numerous driving schools across the emirate facilitate the learning process and aid in obtaining a driving license. If you're considering bidding farewell to public transport and embracing independence on the roads, our comprehensive guide to the best driving schools in Dubai serves as an ideal starting point.

 
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Find Out Which Driving School is Best in Dubai

When you start considering getting your UAE driver's license, you may have a few questions. Can you transfer your license if you already hold a license in your home country? How long does it take to get a license if you are completely new to driving? Let's address those questions first.
 
 

Beginner Drivers

If you do not possess a valid driver's license, you must register with a driving institute in Dubai and attend a minimum of 40 classes. After registering, you must take a preliminary driving test followed by the final RTA test. If you fail the exam, you will be required to take additional classes and retake the exam. This whole process takes roughly 3 months if you do not fail any tests.
 
 

Documents needed to apply for a UAE driver's license

Emirates ID (Original and copy)
Passport copy and original (personal details and relevant visa page)
Passport-size photographs
NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the sponsor or company
Eye test results from approved RTA eye clinics
 
 

Transferred license

If you hold a valid driving license from another country, whether you can transfer it to a UAE license or not depends on your citizenship and the country that issued your license. Currently, the RTA recognizes 32 countries whose licenses can be transferred in Dubai, including those within the GCC region and others.
 

It's worth noting that licenses from Poland, Japan, Greece, and South Korea require translation into Arabic or English by the relevant embassy or legally approved translation agents.

For Canadian license holders, a letter from the Canadian consulate in Dubai verifying the authenticity of the license is necessary for the transfer process.

 

 

Types of license transfer

 

1. Same license and citizenship

If you are a citizen of any of the above countries and possess a license issued from the same country, the process is straightforward as long as all the required documents are in order.
 
 

2. Different license and citizenship

Non-citizens of the above countries who possess a valid license issued from there must register with a driving institute for their license procedures. They will be required to take the theory test and final road test directly. However, if they fail the final test, they will need to take an additional 8 classes before retaking the test.
 
 

License from other countries

Licenses from countries that are not directly transferable to the UAE will require the license holders to take a minimum number of classes with a driving institute, depending on the validity of their license.
 
 

Documents needed if you have an existing license:

 
All the above documents 
Original license and copy
Translation or consulate letter if required.
 
Now that you have understood the intricacies of getting a driving licence in Dubai, let’s go through some of the best driving schools in Dubai to start your journey. Selecting the right driving school is important, as each institution offers a distinct approach to training, which includes theoretical lessons and practical driving lessons. With the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) mandating that driving licenses must be obtained from authorized schools in Dubai, adhering to this requirement is crucial.
 
 

The 5 Best Driving Schools in Dubai

 

1. Emirates Driving Institute Dubai (EDI)

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Emirates Driving Institute Dubai (EDI) stands out as one of the best driving schools in Dubai, boasting over 25 years of experience. Recognised by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), EDI has garnered numerous awards for its training and service provision excellence.

Accredited by the AA Driving School in the UK, it has trained over 500,000 students and maintains a team of 500 professional instructors offering a wide range of driving courses tailored to different vehicles and training hours, including options for motorcycles as well, ensuring comprehensive training.

Notably, it offers convenience with more than 40 branches across Dubai, including prominent centres at Al Qusais, Al Quoz, and Jumeirah. Additionally, EDI provides VIP packages featuring training in luxury cars like the Bentley Bentayga, Tesla Model X and Mercedes G Wagon to name a few. With mobile apps and driving simulators enhancing training efficiency, EDI prioritizes both quality instruction and comfort for learners, including female students.

 

2. Belhasa Driving School

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Established in 2001, Belhasa Driving Centre has solidified its reputation as one of Dubai's leading institutes for comprehensive driving training. Led by Mr. Saif Ahmed Belhasa, it's synonymous with futuristic driving concepts boasting a diverse range of training programs, including light motor vehicles and motorcycles.

With a commitment to quality, each student benefits from dedicated one-on-one instruction, ensuring thorough training. For those eyeing luxurious car ownership, the Business Class and First Class training options provide exclusive training in Mercedes cars and Range Rovers. Belhasa Driving Centre emphasizes convenience and flexibility, offering remote learning through e-classes reaffirming Belhasa's status as one of the best driving schools in Dubai.

 
 

3. Galadari Motor Driving Centre (GMDC)

Galadari Driving School.jpg Galadari Motor Driving Centre (GMDC)
 

Galadari Motor Driving Centre (GMDC), operating under RTA guidelines, is a trusted driving institute in Dubai, offering a variety of courses including light vehicles and motorcycles. Renowned for its quality instruction, GMDC also provides specialized advanced programs in defence driving and off-roading. Licensed by RTA for issuing learning permits, GMDC caters to diverse linguistic preferences, offering courses in Arabic, English, Urdu, and Hindi.

Since 2004, it has focused on ensuring professionalism throughout the learning process, offering both theoretical and practical lessons, GMDC ensures comprehensive preparation for obtaining a driver’s license, regardless of vehicle type or driving experience level. Moreover, learners have the opportunity to train in fancy cars like the Porsche Cayenne, Mercedes G Wagon, Cadillac Escalade, and BMWs, adding a touch of excitement to their driving education journey.

 

4. Dubai Driving Centre.

 
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Established in 2003, Dubai Driving Centre swiftly emerged as a prominent RTA-approved driving school in Dubai, quickly cementing its position as a leading contender in the field. Recognized for its excellence and dedication to providing top-tier service, the centre proudly earned the prestigious Dubai Quality Appreciation Award in 2019, a testament to its unwavering commitment to delivering impeccable training experiences. With a wealth of experience spanning decades, Dubai Driving Centre distinguishes itself from newer driving schools by offering a depth of expertise and knowledge accrued over years of training drivers across various vehicle types.

Committed to staying at the forefront of education, the centre embraces technology by providing an array of online services, including a user-friendly portal for registration, e-learning sessions, and comprehensive practice materials for theory tests, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all learners. Furthermore, Dubai Driving Centre goes beyond standard offerings by providing discounts and concessional packages based on specific eligibility criteria, further enhancing its dedication to fostering a safe and skilled driving community.

 

5. Al Ahli Driving Centre.

 
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Al Ahli Driving School is another one of the best driving schools in Dubai and has been serving the community since 2006, offering comprehensive courses for both cars and motorcycles, along with innovative e-learning platforms accessible in multiple languages. Notably, Al Ahli Driving School stands out for its dedication to inclusivity, providing specialized driving courses tailored for individuals with disabilities. Equipped with vehicles featuring hand controls and staffed by instructors trained by Sharjah Humanitarian Services, the centre ensures a supportive learning environment catering to diverse needs.

 

Renowned for its professionalism and expertise, Al Ahli Driving School's courses are designed by industry professionals to accommodate learners of all skill levels, guaranteeing a tailored experience regardless of prior driving experience. With a reputation for excellence, Al Ahli Driving Centre remains a trusted choice for those seeking the best driving classes in Dubai, offering peace of mind and quality instruction to all who enrol.

Now that you know the best driving schools in Dubai, all that's left to do is gather your documents and choose one that suits your needs the best. Each of these renowned institutions offers a range of services tailored to various requirements, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your driving education. Whether you prioritize luxury cars, specialized training, or comprehensive courses, there's a driving school in Dubai to match your preferences.