Dubai Driving Rules & Regulations: What You Must Know

If you are a resident in Dubai, you must have a valid UAE driving license to drive legally. Tourists and visitors, however, can drive using an international driving permit (IDP) along with their home country’s license. Some countries have agreements with the UAE that allow their citizens to convert their licenses without undergoing a test.

Dubai has clearly marked speed limits on all roads, which vary depending on the area:

Exceeding speed limits can result in fines ranging from AED 300 to AED 3,000, along with black points on your license. Dubai also has a zero-tolerance policy for street racing, with severe penalties including vehicle confiscation and heavy fines.

Dubai follows a strict zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving. If caught driving under the influence, you could face heavy fines, jail time, and license suspension. The minimum fine is AED 20,000 or a jail sentence, depending on the severity of the case.

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, not just the driver. Failure to comply can result in a fine of AED 400 and 4 black points. For children under 4 years old, a proper child safety seat is required, and children under 10 are not allowed to sit in the front seat.

Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you have a hands-free system. Holding or texting on your phone can result in a fine of AED 800 and 4 black points on your driving record.

Dubai roads are well-organized, and lane discipline is strictly enforced. Drivers should always use indicators when changing lanes. Overtaking from the right is illegal and can result in hefty fines. The left lane on highways is typically reserved for faster-moving vehicles, so slower drivers should stay in the middle or right lanes.

Jumping a red light is considered a serious offense in Dubai. Violators can be fined up to AED 3,000, receive 12 black points, and have their vehicles confiscated for 30 days. Always stop when the signal turns yellow, as rushing through an intersection can also lead to penalties.

Dubai has designated parking zones with paid parking meters in most areas. Illegal parking, such as parking in a handicapped zone without a permit or blocking emergency exits, can result in fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 1,000.

Dubai operates a toll system called Salik, which is automatically deducted from a prepaid account linked to your vehicle. Toll gates are located at key highways and bridges, and failure to maintain a sufficient balance can result in fines.

In case of an accident, drivers must call 999 for emergency assistance. Minor accidents should be reported via the Dubai Police app. Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it can lead to fines and legal consequences.

Dubai also has strict road etiquette rules:

• Always give way to pedestrians at crossings.
• Avoid aggressive driving or tailgating, as it can result in fines and black points.
• Honking excessively is discouraged and can lead to penalties in certain zones.