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:
- Apply for a driving course at authorized schools. Provide your passport, visa copy, eye test certificate, and photos.
- Complete theory classes and practical lessons. Costs vary from 2000 to 8000 AED.
- Pass theory, parking, road tests, and final assessment. Test fees range from 50 to 200 AED each.
- 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.