Driving in Dubai: The Dos, Don’ts, and Important Tips

Driving in Dubai: Essential Tips for a Safe Journey

Driving in Dubai is more than just knowing how to manage your vehicle, as road culture is quite different from other places around the globe. Here are a few important tips that every driver should know to ensure an easy ride on the roads.

• Obey Speed Limits: There are many speed cameras throughout Dubai and speeding fines are fairly high. Obey posted speed limits, which range from as low as 60 km/hr in residential areas and generally up to 140 km/hr on highways. Exceeding the limit by a few kilometers can attract a fine.
• Keep Right except when Passing: The left lane is primarily a passing lane. If you are driving at a slow speed or speed limit, stay in the right lane to avoid obstructing faster vehicles. This might be infuriating to other drivers and easily put them into hazardous situations.
• Carry Your Documents with You Always: When driving in Dubai always carry your driving license, vehicle registration, and insurance details. These documents will be required by the police during routine checks or whenever you are involved in an accident.
• Plan your route: Traffic congestion is heavy in Dubai, especially during peak hours. Navigating apps such as Google Maps or Waze can help create routes and avoid traffic congestion. Additionally, the apps may guide you through locations of petrol stations and parking areas near your destination.
• Avoid Sudden Lane Changes: Lane discipline is very important in Dubai. Do not make sudden lane changes without proper signaling. The other driver gets confused and this can lead to an accident. Always check your mirrors, and signal before changing a lane.
   

Common Don’ts of Driving in Dubai: Mistakes to Avoid

While it is important to know what to do, it is also essential to understand the don’ts of driving in Dubai. Dubai traffic laws are relatively strict as minor traffic violations attract fines or penalties.

• Do not operate a mobile phone while driving: It is against the law to operate your mobile phone whilst driving unless you are using a hands-free system. You could face significant fines and points on your license if you text or talk on a phone without a hands-free device fitted.
• Do not ignore pedestrian crossings: Pedestrians have the right of way at crossings. Failure to stop for pedestrians at marked crossings attracts fines and is regarded as a serious offense. When approaching roads with marked pedestrian crossings, always be on the lookout, especially at busy intersections.
• Do not leave the accident scene: You have a legal obligation to remain at the scene no matter how minor the accident and make every effort to call for assistance. Leaving the scene of even a minor accident is an offense in Dubai.
• Do not Drink and Drive: Dubai has a no-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Even a tiny trace of alcohol in your body could result in catastrophic consequences, such as fines or even imprisonment and deportation from the state.
• Don't Tailgate: Keeping sufficient following distance between vehicles can help avoid an accident, especially when driving on highways. In addition, tailgating is illegal and the fines are exorbitant.
   

Dos of Driving in Dubai: Road Rules and Etiquette

To drive smoothly and safely across Dubai, there must be an understanding of proper road rules and etiquette. These are the most important Dos of driving in Dubai:

• Do Give Way to Emergency Vehicles: If you see an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance or a fire truck, give way to the vehicle so it can pass. It is a law in Dubai.
• Follow Traffic Signals: Dubai has high-tech traffic management systems on all its roads, hence running a traffic light is a serious offense and carries stern penalties. Therefore, one must ensure that they drive according to traffic signals.
• Do Wear Your Seatbelt: All occupants inside the car, including the driver, should wear seatbelts. You have to pay fines if you violate this rule.
• Do use indicators: Use your indicators to communicate to other road users while shifting lanes or turning. Doing so will make the other driver aware of your actions and therefore avoid potential accidents.
• Do park in designated areas: Parking in Dubai can be a challenging task, especially in densely populated places. Always use the marked parking areas and do not park in restricted areas like sidewalks or near fire hydrant spots. This kind of parking may cost you fines or result in towing away of your vehicle.
   

FAQs on Driving in Dubai

What are some essential driving tips for new drivers in Dubai?

Alertness, adherence to the speed limit, and avoiding distractions while driving are some important conditions that new drivers must follow.
Drivers should pay attention to road signs, which are usually written in both Arabic and English.

Is it safe to drive in Dubai?

Yes, driving on Dubai’s state-of-the-art roads is generally safe. However, following road rules will avoid accidents and fines, as traffic tends to move at a fast pace.

What do I do if I have a minor accident in Dubai?

In the event of a minor accident, pull over to the side of the road if possible and call Dubai Police. You are likely to require a police report in case you claim any insurance.

Is there an app or resource that can help the driver in Dubai?

Yes, Google Maps and Waze are some navigation apps. Additionally, RTA Dubai has an app that gives information regarding traffic, parking, and public transport.

Does Dubai have a special set of rules applicable solely to driving on the highways?

Observe the speed limit signs on highways, and overtake on the left-hand side while leaving appropriate distance from the vehicle being overtaken. Tailgating and speeding attract severe punishment.