You can't get a UAE driver's license until you have your visa, which can take anywhere between 2 weeks and 4 months.

There is a Ministry of Interior driving office in the Jumeirah Plaza. If you have a UK, US or Australian license you can definitely just swap it over.

You have to get an eye test at the optometrist next door (Dhs 25.00), then take your visa, passport and a no objection letter from your employer to the driving office. Fill in a form, get a photo, hand over Dhs 100.00 and you're done.

In the meantime, you need an international driver's license to rent a car. I got mine from RAC but you HAVE to do it in your own country!!!