Dubai Driving Rules & Regulations: What You Must Know

• Visiting as a tourist in Dubai allows you to drive using your home country license and an International Driving Permit issued in most countries 
• The Speed cameras are everywhere - in the city, driving around 60-80km/h, on the highway 100-120km/h, and 40 inside the neighbourhoods 
• Do not drink and drive or use your phone when driving- there is zero tolerance, and the starting price of a fine is AED 20,000 
• Toll roads charge automatically through the Salik system when you pass under special gates on main roads 
• Every passenger in the vehicle must buckle up. Otherwise, the driver has to face an AED 400 fine and four black points.

What You Need to Bring

There are strict Dubai rules for tourists- if you know these, it can save you a lot. To drive in Dubai, here's what you need to pack: 

All you need is an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a driver's license from your home country. You must be at least 21 and carry both documents when driving. 

Countries That Get Special Treatment

Dubai tourism offers certain privileged nations special offers so as to drive without an International Driving Permit, as is the case with the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Italy and Switzerland.

Staying Longer Than a Month?

If you wish to stay in Dubai more than 30 days, you may be required to acquire a Dubai driving license. It varies with each individual and is based on where you are coming, and you will have some tests to take and documents to fill in.

Know Your Speed Zones

Before driving in Dubai, you must know the speed zones. Dubai has speed cameras everywhere - they're like digital guardians watching the roads 24/7. Here's what you need to remember:

Dubai follows a “black points” traffic violation system. If you accumulate 24 points, your license may be suspended. Each traffic offence comes with:

• AED 300 to AED 3,000 in fines
• Up to 12 black points
• Possible vehicle impoundment

Tips: Reduce black points by taking a Dubai Police-approved traffic awareness course.

The city of Gold Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world due to its strict rules and regulations, along with advanced digital security systems. Here is the curated list of what not to do in Dubai while driving- 
 

Lane Etiquette 101

• Left lane = high-speed / overtaking
• Middle/right lanes = regular and slow-moving traffic
• Always signal and avoid sudden swerves.

Overtaking Other cars

• Only overtake from the left.
• Overtaking on the right is illegal and can result in heavy fines.

How Dubai Parking Works

The majority of the parking places in Dubai are time-bound and paid. The city has both regular parking meters and a smartphone application, named RTA Smart Parking, by which you can simply pay using your phone.

Common Parking Mistakes

Here are the parking violations that catch tourists most often:

Parking in front of a hydrant, reserved places for the disabled and parking in places without permission can result in 6 black points and a fine of AED 1,000. Additionally, parking on pavements and blocking pedestrian movement leads to an AED 400 fine.

Tips: Download the RTA Smart Parking app as it shows you where to find parking spots, pays instantly, and allows you to add more time without running back to your car.

What is Salik?

Salik is an automatic toll, which means that your car in Dubai is charged through special gates as you drive by. The Arabic term for "salik" simply means "clear," and that's exactly what it does—it keeps traffic moving smoothly.

How Much Does It Cost?

Whenever you drive through a Salik gate, they will charge you between AED 4 to AED 6, depending on the time. Salik gates are found on the major highways and key bridges within the city. Dubai currently has 10 Salik toll gates. 

For Rental Cars

The rental firm often takes care of all the Salik paperwork if you're renting a car. They'll either include the cost in your rental price or charge your credit card separately. Just ask when you pick up your car.

Learn more: Salik Toll System

• Police- 999
• Medical Emergency- 998
• Fire Department- 997
• Search and Rescue- 995
• Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) - https://www.rta.ae/

• Passport with Dubai entry stamp
• Home country driver’s license
• International Driving Permit (if needed)
• Rental agreement
• Car insurance

Driving in Dubai offers you to visit beautiful Burj Khalifa, drive along amazing beaches, explore old traditional souks, and learn about hidden places that tour buses don’t cover. The roads of Dubai are made easy and comfortable to move on. Once you know the basic important rules of driving, your Dubai trip becomes enjoyable. Book your next trip by exploring the best Dubai tour Packages from pickyourtrail for a memorable and hassle-free vacation.