While there are many options for travelling about in Dubai including buses, trains, abra and taxis, a very popular option is owning and driving your own car. You will need to follow government authorized procedures for obtaining your driving license, transferring your license and buying or selling a car. 

Obtaining a driving licence and renewal
Considering the vast nationalities that have made Dubai their home, there is bound to be varied driving cultures. To ensure some uniformity and discipline, in line with international regulations and standards, Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority has stringent tests before issuing driving licenses in Dubai.

The good news is that 36 countries that have a very high international standard of driving are on the approved list. Citizens of such countries holding driving licenses can automatically obtain transfers and obtain an UAE license without undergoing any training. For nationals of all other countries, you can obtain your license after training from an authorized driving school. If you are 18-21 years of age, you can apply for a probationary license.

Renewing your licence is simple and can be done at any RTA Traffic Office branch or mall outlet within less than 30 minutes.

Approved list of 36 countries for transfer of driving licenses – Dubai.ae
Procedures for getting a driving license in Dubai – Dubai.ae
Request to open a new file for learner’s licence and download the form – Roads & Transport Authority
Authorized driving schools – Dubai.ae
Request a traffic signs test appointment – Roads & Transport Authority
Request NOC for Handicapped – Roads & Transport Authority
Request to renew driving licence and vehicle registration – Roads & Transport Authority
Report a damaged/lost driving licence or vehicle registration – Dubai Police
Get an international driving licence –Automobile and Touring Club of UAE