Dubai driving schools to provide tests, mandatory lectures in 11 new languages

Dubai

 As Dubai’s multilingual population grows, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has introduced compulsory lectures and knowledge test required to obtain a driving licence in seven languages, from September.

 Aspiring drivers will have to choose from Chinese, Russian, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Bengali and Persian languages for both theory tests as well as the eight  lectures.

 The computer-based knowledge test, that every candidate need to pass, before moving on to the practical driving classes, is currently available in English, Arabic and Urdu, along with an additional voice-over translation in Pushto.

 From September, the 30-minute will be available in 11 new languages, including the text on screen and the voice over.

 “We will be having text on screen as well as voice over in 11 languages, which the candidate can listen to through headphones. In case a person cannot read, a voice will read out the questions and then the candidate can choose the correct answer from multiple options available,” said Arif Al Malek, Director of Drivers Training and Qualifications at RTA’s Licensing Agency.

 He added that the candidate should specify the language chosen for lectures and tests while completing the application for driver’s training.

 “We already have lectures in some of these languages, but we will be upgrading our system soon to conduct the lectures in a more organised manner so that every candidate has thorough knowledge of what it takes to drive on roads. For this we will ensure candidates are taught in the language of their choice,” he explained.

 Though the theory tests will be available across all driving schools, lecture facilities may not be available in all schools immediately. Hence, Al Malek urged candidates to enquire at the schools about the languages available before signing up.

 Dubai has six authorised driving schools — Emirates Driving Institute, Belhasa Driving Centre, Al Ahli Driving Centre, Dubai Driving Centre, Galadari Motor Driving School and Drive Dubai.