Know Driving Rules You Must Follow in Dubai If You Are a Tourist

Driving in Dubai as a tourist can be a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. Before you start, here’s what you need to know:

Renting a Car in Dubai

Renting a car in Dubai is the first step to driving around the city. Here’s what you need to know:

To rent a car:

• You must be at least 21 years old, or 25 for some cars.
• You need a valid driver’s license from your home country, or an international driving permit.
• You should have a valid credit card to pay for the rental and deposit.
• Make sure you have travel insurance that covers car rental.

Cost:

• Renting prices vary based on the car type, rental duration, season, and company.
• Expect to pay around 50 to 500 AED per day.
• Fuel is relatively cheap, about 2 AED per liter.

Additional fees:

• Toll fees apply on certain roads. Get a Salik tag to pay them.
• Parking fees range from 2 to 10 AED per hour.
• Fines are hefty for traffic violations:
• Speeding: From 300 to 3000 AED.
• Running a red light: 1000 AED plus black points on your license.
• Driving under the influence: Up to 20,000 AED plus imprisonment.
• Using a mobile phone while driving: 800 AED.
• Driving without a seat belt: 400 AED.

How to Get a Driving Licence in Dubai?

If you’re planning to stay longer in Dubai or become a resident, you’ll need a UAE driver’s license. Here’s how:

1. Apply for a driving course at authorized schools. Provide your passport, visa copy, eye test certificate, and photos.
2. Complete theory classes and practical lessons. Costs vary from 2000 to 8000 AED.
3. Pass theory, parking, road tests, and final assessment. Test fees range from 50 to 200 AED each.
4. Get your UAE driver’s license, valid for 10 years, for a fee of 200 AED.

Also read: Top 5 Things to Buy When in Dubai

Driving Rules to Follow in Dubai

Driving in Dubai has specific rules you need to know:

• Drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
• Stick to speed limits: 60 km/h in the city, 80 km/h on suburban roads, and 100 km/h on highways.
• Follow traffic signals and signs, usually in English and Arabic.
• Yield to pedestrians, especially at crossings and lights.
• Respect lane discipline; signal before changing lanes.
• Use indicators, headlights, and horn properly.
• Avoid distractions like phones, food, or loud music.
• Be patient and courteous with other drivers; avoid road rage.