Montenegrin citizens can drive in the UAE without additional procedures: Everything you need to know about the new system for using and exchanging driver’s licenses
Citizens of Montenegro, along with nationals of 51 other countries, are now allowed to drive in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using their national driver’s licenses during their stay in the country. Additionally, those who choose to live and work in the UAE can exchange their Montenegrin driver’s license for a UAE license — without having to take any theoretical or practical exams.
This update is part of the latest changes under the “Markhous” initiative, led by the UAE Ministry of Interior, aimed at modernizing and digitizing public services while facilitating mobility for both tourists and future residents.
For Montenegrin nationals, this means their license is recognized for both tourism and business visits. Montenegrins staying in the UAE as tourists or business visitors can use their Montenegrin driver’s license without any extra requirements — no international license, no local registration, and no testing is necessary.
If a Montenegrin citizen obtains a residence permit in the UAE, they can exchange their national license for a UAE driver’s license without taking any exams. Only a few administrative requirements must be met, including:
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A valid UAE residence visa
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A valid and permanent Montenegrin driver’s license
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A passed vision test
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Legal authentication and translation of the license
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A fee of 600 dirhams (approximately 150 euros)
The procedure is carried out through the digital platform “MuroorKhous,” and the license can be delivered either electronically or by mail.
Updated List of Recognized Countries Now Includes Montenegro
Among the 52 countries are: Estonia, Albania, Portugal, China, Hungary, Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Serbia, Cyprus, Latvia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Iceland, Israel, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, USA, France, Japan, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Ireland, Norway, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, UK, Turkey, Canada, Poland, South Africa, Australia, Croatia, Texas (USA), North Macedonia, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan… Citizens of South Korea can exchange their licenses only after obtaining residency — they are not allowed to drive while visiting.
Key Benefits for Montenegrin Citizens
The main advantages for Montenegrins are that no additional documentation is needed for tourists, and for those relocating to the UAE, the license exchange is quick and straightforward — with no testing involved. The system enhances mobility and reduces bureaucracy through digital services that promote freedom of movement.
In addition to making it easier for Montenegrins to drive in the UAE, the system works both ways — UAE citizens are also granted easier access to driving abroad, including in Montenegro, where UAE licenses may be recognized or exchanged based on bilateral agreements or international conventions.
