Dubai's roads are wide, smooth and well marked, but the driving style differs from what many visitors know from Europe, the CIS or Asia. Speeds are higher, lane changes are quicker and cameras watch almost everywhere. Below are the mistakes tourists repeat most often, with short answers to the questions we hear before a rental.

Licence and documents: start here

The first question is the licence. The list of countries whose national licences are accepted without extra paperwork, and of those that need an International Driving Permit (IDP), is in our article on UAE licence requirements. Do not rely on forum posts: rules can change. If your country is not covered there or you are unsure, write to us before booking and we will advise.

  • An IDP does not replace your national licence. It is a translation and is invalid without the original. Carry both.
  • If a licence is required and you do not have a valid one, the fine for driving without it can reach AED 2,000 and the car may be impounded.
  • The registration card and the rental contract are in the glovebox. At a stop the officer will ask for the licence, the IDP, your passport (a copy is fine) and the car documents.

Lanes and speed

The most common tourist mistake is cruising slowly in the left lane. In the UAE the left lane is for overtaking and fast traffic, and drivers behind will flash their lights at you quickly. If you do not plan to go fast, take the middle or right lane and change lanes only when it is clear.

On speed: on major roads such as Sheikh Zayed Road the limit is 100 or 120 km/h depending on the section. Cameras cover the highways and the city. The tolerance above the limit is small and differs between emirates, so do not plan around a margin. Follow the signs. Speeding fines go to the renter and are paid at actual cost, see our article on fines.

Roundabouts

Traffic in the UAE keeps to the right, the wheel is on the left and roundabouts run anti-clockwise. If you are used to driving on the left, take the first few roundabouts slower than you think necessary. The general rule: give way to vehicles already on the roundabout, get into the right lane early and signal when you exit. Never stop on a roundabout: traffic behind you moves fast on busy junctions.

Tailgating

Traffic is dense and some drivers follow very close. Do not copy them. Keep a gap in which you can actually stop, even when the car behind is honking: following too closely is dangerous and can be fined. If someone sits on your bumper, do not brake in response. Move calmly to the right.

One more point: lane changes can be abrupt and not everyone signals. Check the mirror and the blind spot before moving over, and do not assume you will be let in.

Phone, seat belts, alcohol

  • Phone: do not use it while driving, neither to call nor to type. Set up navigation before you leave and place the phone in a holder within sight.
  • Seat belts: everyone wears one, including rear passengers.
  • Alcohol: do not drink at all before driving. The UAE applies zero tolerance, and the consequences are more serious than in most countries.
  • Children: ask about a child seat when booking and confirm availability.

Salik, parking and small things

Salik toll gates charge automatically and the tag is already fitted to the car. You pay the actual amount, rates are in our Salik article. Parking in Dubai is paid almost everywhere, linked to the number plate through an app, a meter or SMS. Do not leave the car where parking is not allowed: fines go to the renter, and on return we show you everything that has arrived.

A good time for your first drive across the city is a weekend morning or an evening after the peak hours. That gives you time to settle into the rhythm of the road without pressure.

If you are stopped or have an accident

If the police stop you, stay in the car, lower the window and keep your hands in sight. If there is an accident, switch on the hazard lights, do not leave the scene and contact us at once. More in our article on what to do after an accident. Ask us about cover and who pays for damage before your rental starts.