A Visitor’s Guide to Renting and Driving in the UAE
When driving in a new country, it is essential to know about its traffic rules and regulations. The United Arab Emirates boasts a well-connected network of roads across seven emirates, making driving fun for travellers. For visitors, renting a car is often the most effective way to explore the UAE, from serene deserts to futuristic landscapes. Our guide provides a quick brief for visitors to rent and drive a car in the UAE without any worry.
Understanding License Requirements
The first step is to determine whether you are eligible to drive in the UAE. The license requirements for driving in the UAE vary depending on where you are coming from. Tourists from several countries, including the GCC, the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Western Europe, can drive a rental car using their country’s driving license.
On the other hand, visitors from different countries must hold a valid international driving permit in addition to their national license. It is essential to check this requirement before arrival, and rental companies only offer cars for visitors with a valid driving license.
Key Road Rules and Etiquette
Driving in the UAE is generally straightforward, but awareness of local rules is key. Given below are some key traffic rules and etiquette that drivers must follow to avoid traffic fines and drive safely in the UAE.
- Driving Side: Traffic flows on the right-hand side of the road. It is essential to drive on the right side; otherwise, it can lead to severe penalties.
- Speed Limits: Motorists must not exceed the clearly marked, strictly enforced speed limits, which are monitored by a vast network of automated cameras. Limits typically range from 60-80 km/h in cities to 100-120 km/h on highways. Some major highways may have higher limits up to 140 km/h, so ensure that you keep an eye on the speed limit and follow it actively.
- Toll System (Salik): The Salik Toll System is one of the most important things drivers must know. This is an automated toll system in Dubai that tracks every vehicle to collect tolls. A Salik tag is placed on every car, and when a vehicle passes through a toll gate in Dubai, the toll is automatically deducted. For rental cars, Sailk toll charges are added to customers’ final rental bills.
- Use of Indicators: Drivers must ensure they use indicators carefully to let other motorists know about their movement. A violation of this rule can result in a heavy traffic fine.
- Zero Tolerance: The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. Visitors from across the globe must always avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Parking and Refuelling
Rental car users must also be aware of the rules for parking and refuelling in the UAE. Finding parking in the UAE is quite simple. Parking in most shopping malls, hotels, and tourist attractions is often free. The public parking in the UAE is managed by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA). The RTA parking fee can be paid through the authority’s app or via street-side meters.
Additionally, for refuelling, drivers can find petrol stations across all major roads that are open 24/7. Drivers must always keep an eye on their fuel tank and tyre pressure to avoid any unexpected situations while driving on the UAE roads.
Driving in the UAE is fun, and it is even more fun for visitors with a rental car. However, drivers must be aware of all the rules and driving etiquette outlined above to avoid traffic fines and dangerous road situations.
Are you looking to rent a car in the UAE? Book it today with Dollar Car Rental UAE.