Are there special driving rules in Dubai when renting a car to know?

As said above, driving in Dubai is as enjoyable as a tourist can imagine but then, like it is true with every other thing, driving in Dubai comes with its own share of rules and regulations that a tourist has to be willing to learn so as to have the most enjoyable time on the roads of the emirate. Whether you're a tourist renting a car to explore the city or a resident looking to navigate Dubai's roads, here are some key rules to keep in mind. Now that you are either visiting the city and are likely to rent a car most probably for tourist purposes, or are a resident in Dubai, here are some of the rules you ought to know:.

Driving License Requirements

But when hiring a car or your vehicle when in Dubai, ensure that your driving license is legal in the UAE as mentioned above. Local drivers may have a domestic driving license, which is sometimes expected to present when the holder is a tourist, the IDP must be available. In terms of driving license, intending drivers must have a UAE license.

Must Read: Can Visitors Use an International Driver's License to Rent a Car in Dubai?

Seat Belt and Child Safety

All but the driver in the car is required to wear seat belts and this is a required law with no exception permitted. If you are traveling with kids, the kids must follow the proper car seat as per the UAE law in age or weight appropriate manner.

Speed Limits

In Dubai the speed limits are however not similar for all types of roads, common types being the following. Among the urban limits, the general speed limit varies between 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph) while on highways the speed limit can be of 100-120 km/h (62-75 mph). Fair rates are applied to speeding which also involves suspension of license and hence it is important to respect those limits.

Must Read: Can I Drive a Rental Car Outside of Dubai?

Mobile Phones and Driving

Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited as is observed with the ‘No drunk driving’ sign, and the use of a mobile phone while driving is also prohibited unless one has a hands-free kit. This encompasses keeping a phone in your hand or using it to text, call or, even converse through VoIP calls. This means offenders are liable for a penalty fine and black points that can be channeled on their driving license.

Drink Driving Laws

The UAE’s road traffic laws are quite clear on the issue of consumption of alcohol and operation of motor vehicles. The legal prescribed limit of alcohol in Thai blood system is practically nil as violation of these provisions constitutes a serious offense for which offenders are subject to fines, imprisonment, and for expatriates deportation.

Lane Discipline and Signaling

Ensure to keep to the correct line while on the road and make use of the signal lights when one needs to change lanes or make a turn. Failure to signal when planning a lane change has implications on fines as well as dangerous when it happens on busy roads in Dubai.

Must Read: How Does Parking Work in Dubai and Where Can I Park a Rental Car?

Traffic Congestion

Like many other cities, Dubai uses roads and highways and hence experiences traffic jams most of the time in the morning and evening. schedule your routes in a way that you do not get stranded in traffic especially if you have to travel during the peak hours in the morning and in the evening.

Salik Gates

Some of the road networks in Dubai are those that have been fitted with the Salik toll barriers. These gates then take your money when you try to access them as you pass through. They may come with a Salik tag, but make sure to discuss with the car rental company regarding tolls when using the car during your rental duration.

Must Read: Are there toll roads in Dubai I need to know about when renting a car?

Parking Regulations

Learn the parking laws and regulations that are followed in the emirate of Dubai. The same applies to parallel parking as you may find yourself parking in prohibited zones or spaces which attract penalties such fines or had your car removed. Avoid pulling up to a sidewalk and getting fines by parking in places like parking lots or pay by the hour spaces.

Roadside Assistance and Emergency Contacts

In terms of emergencies you should have the number of Dubai Police – 999 and some of the tow truck services which are offered by various rental companies. These contacts can be very useful if there is an accident or a car that requires a mechanic is driven out of fuel.

Must Read: What Should I Do If I Have an Accident with a Rental Car in Dubai?

Conclusion

Therefore, by learning these driving rules and regulations in Dubai before getting a rental car, this guide will assist you to have an enjoyable and compliant driving experience when in these regions. Safe travels!