Discovering Dubai by car is a thrilling adventure, especially if you opt for renting and set your own pace through the charming city. Before you hit the road, though, the first step is to get to know the rules and regulations concerning the rental cars. The traffic rules in Dubai are strict, and if you happen to breach them, the penalties can be nothing short of severe punishment. To be aware of the key rules in advance is what you have to do for a smooth and pleasant journey.
The following is a thoroughly informative guide on the must-know rules for driving a rented car in Dubai.
Valid Driver’s License
- To rent and drive a car in Dubai, you need a valid driver’s license.
- Applicants who are residing in the UAE must show their UAE driver’s license.
- As for tourists and visitors, they can either present their own license (as long as it is within the UAE recognized list) or should always carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their national license.
- Don’t forget to ask the rental company if they accept your license, for the requirements vary slightly from one company to another.
Minimum Age Requirement
In general, the minimum age to rent a car in Dubai is 21, though certain companies need the drivers to be, at the very least, 25 years of age for particular categories of cars, especially luxury or sports automobiles.
If you are under the age of 25, you may also have to pay a surcharge for a young driver.
Insurance Is Mandatory
Every rented car in Dubai must be insured. The majority of rental companies offer primary insurance. However, we suggest obtaining full benefits including Collision Damage Waiver to remain stress-free.
Make sure to check the car thoroughly before signing the rental agreement, and if you find anything out of order, report it to the rental company.
Follow the Traffic Rules
Dubai doesn’t tolerate any traffic rule violations. A few significant rules to remember:
- All passengers must wear seat belts (front and rear).
- Racers must obey the speed limits, which are usually 60–80 km/h in cities and 100–120 km/h on highways; these limits are strictly checked with speed radars.
- Driving with alcohol in the bloodstream is utterly banned. You are illegal even with a trace of alcohol.
- Your ID, rental agreement, and insurance papers should always be in the car.
- Using cell phones while driving is unlawful, as a rule, unless equipped with a hands-free system.
- Traffic fines can be exorbitant, and if you get one while driving a rental car, the rental company will either deduct the fine amount from your deposit or charge your credit card.
Navigation and Road Signs
- Dubai’s road signs are both Arabic and English. Thus, they are easy to read by foreigners.
- GPS maps applications are of utmost necessity for you especially if you don’t know the area well. You might use Google Maps or Waze.
- Before you start on your way, study the plan of your route to avoid abrupt lane changes.
Toll System: Salik
- The electronics toll system that Dubai uses is called Salik. Your toll fee is withdrawn automatically when you pass through the gate.
- Rental companies will individually invoice the Salik tolls you use during your rental, which usually occurs after the car has been brought back.
Parking Regulations
Dubai’s streets are comprised of different parking zones:
- Paid parking is available throughout the city; you can pay through SMS, mobile apps, or park meters.
- Valet parking is frequently used at malls and hotels.
- Illegal parking is thoroughly discouraged, (e.g., in the disabled parking, sidewalks, or no-parking zones), which can bring you to fines and towing.
- To escape the penalties, remember to check the parking signs carefully.
Accidents and Emergencies
If you get into an accident:
- Stay put and do not move the vehicle except under circumstances when it’s only a minor traffic impediment.
- Dial 999 immediately to contact the police.
- Minor accidents should be reported via the Dubai Police app or at a police station.
- A police report shall be necessary for the insurance claim or for resolving the matter with the rental company.
- The penalties for not appropriately reporting accidents can be heavy or even lead to insurance problems.
Driving Etiquette
Driving in Dubai needs patience and care:
- Lane discipline is of importance; generally, the leftmost lane is for faster vehicles.
- Indicate when you are changing lanes.
- Aggressive driving, like tailgating and sudden braking outside punishable by heavy fines.
- Take special care of school zones and pedestrian crosswalks.
Vehicle Condition and Return
Before driving off, make a good check of fuel volume, tire pressure, and the vehicle in its entirety. A good majority of the rental companies offer full-tank cars and expect you to return a full tank or else they would charge premium refueling fees.
Your timely return of the car to the previously agreed location is what we expect from you to avoid any further charges.
Conclusion
Driving a rented car in Dubai is a very convenient way of exploring the city and its surroundings like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the picturesque desert dunes. However, due to the stringent rules enforced on the roads, driving carefully and keeping everything ready becomes a must.
These guidelines, when adhered to, will ensure that you have a safe and smooth driving experience and enjoy your time in this exciting city.
Wishing you a happy drive!
