Travel between Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates is set to become easier as the two countries begin mutually recognizing each other's driver's licenses from July 25, 2026.

A memorandum on the mutual recognition and exchange of driver's licenses will officially enter into force on that date, simplifying travel and reducing administrative procedures for citizens of both countries, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

Under the new rules, Kazakh citizens visiting the UAE for tourism, business, or private purposes will be able to drive using their valid national driver's license. The same right will apply to UAE citizens traveling in Kazakhstan.

The agreement also introduces a simplified process for Kazakh residents in the UAE to exchange their driver's licenses without taking additional driving tests. The exemption applies to Category B and B1 licenses, covering passenger vehicles.

To qualify, applicants must hold a valid UAE residence permit, possess a valid Category B or B1 driver's license, be at least 18 years old, submit an official translation of their license into the host country's official language, and complete the required medical examination.

Drivers will keep their original national driver's license after the exchange. Instead of surrendering the document, the relevant authorities in Kazakhstan and the UAE will notify each other once the exchange has been completed.

Kazakhstan's Ministry of Internal Affairs also urged travelers to familiarize themselves with local traffic laws and road regulations before driving abroad and to comply with all applicable rules.