Dubai is one of the easiest cities in the world to drive in, once you know the rules. Roads are wide and in excellent condition, signs are in English and Arabic, and fuel is cheaper than in most of Europe. At the same time, traffic can be fast and dense, enforcement is strict and some local habits take a day or two to get used to. This guide covers what every visitor should know before renting a car in Dubai.
Can I drive in Dubai with my licence?
Tourists on a visit visa can usually drive a rental car with their home licence if it was issued in one of the many countries recognised by the UAE authorities — including the EU, UK, USA, Canada and Australia. Drivers from other countries generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national licence. Lists can change, so check the current rules; we confirm your situation when you book. Our licence guide goes into detail.
The basics
- Drive on the right and overtake on the left. Undertaking happens, but stay alert to it rather than doing it.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, front and back. Children need appropriate child seats.
- Mobile phones: using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited and heavily fined. Use a mount and hands-free.
- Alcohol: the UAE has a zero-tolerance approach to drink-driving. Do not drink anything if you are going to drive.
- Headlights: use them at night and in sandstorms or poor visibility.
Speed limits and cameras
Limits are clearly signposted and vary by road: typically 40–80 km/h in the city, 100–120 km/h on major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road, and up to around 140 km/h on some intercity roads. Speed cameras are extremely common, both fixed and mobile, and some roads also have average-speed checks. Do not rely on any "tolerance"; stick to the posted limit. Our guide to speed limits, cameras and fines explains the details.
Salik tolls
Dubai uses an automatic toll system called Salik. There are no booths: gates on main roads read a tag on the windscreen as you drive under them. Rental cars already have the tag, and tolls are deducted from your security deposit after the rental. Prices vary by time of day; see our Salik guide.
Junctions, lanes and roundabouts
Dubai's highways have many lanes and exits come up quickly, sometimes on the left. Use a navigation app, plan your exit well in advance and do not cut across several lanes at the last moment — if you miss an exit, just take the next one. At roundabouts, traffic already on the roundabout usually has priority; choose your lane before entering according to your exit. Indicate early and clearly.
Local driving etiquette
Fast cars often approach quickly in the left lane, sometimes flashing their lights. Move over when it is safe; do not brake-check or react. Rude gestures and road rage can lead to serious legal trouble in the UAE, so stay calm whatever happens. Tailgating is also fined. Give way to emergency vehicles immediately.
Parking
Most hotels, malls and attractions have car parks, often with valet service. Street parking in many areas is paid, with zones and hours shown on signs and meters; payment is usually by meter, app or SMS with a local number. Rules and free periods can change, so always check the signs. Parking fines on a rental car are deducted from the security deposit.
What to do in an accident
For an accident with injuries, call emergency services (999 for police) immediately. For minor accidents without injuries, Dubai Police offers digital reporting through its app and the usual practice is to move the vehicles out of traffic if it is safe — check current guidance. Whatever happens, contact us on WhatsApp straight away: insurance claims need an official police report, and the rental company will guide you through the process. Never leave the scene of an accident without reporting it.
Heat, sand and the car
In summer, temperatures can exceed 40 °C. Do not leave children, pets or electronics in a parked car, and give the air conditioning a minute after starting. Sandstorms can reduce visibility suddenly: slow down, keep your distance and switch on your lights. Off-road and dune driving is generally excluded from rental insurance, so keep to paved roads.
Ready to drive?
Once you know the rules, driving in Dubai is a pleasure. Choose from our supercars, SUVs or sports cars, have it delivered to your hotel and plan your route with our best drives in the UAE.