What Are the Do's and Don'ts of Driving in the UAE?

Description: In the UAE, follow traffic signs, wear seat belts, have an IDP, and stick to speed limits. Avoid using phones, hard shoulder driving, and drinking and driving.

The United Arab Emirates has become a global business hub due to massive developments in different fields, such as tourism, real estate, trade, and gas and oil production.

Since more and more people are visiting the UAE, the rate of car accidents is also increasing. Therefore, the government has implemented strict traffic and driving laws for both the residents and tourists to ensure the safety of the people on the roads.

That said, here is the UAE driving guide to introduce you to some of the essential dos and don’ts of driving in the area. Go through all the rules and regulations to ensure safety!

Dos of Driving in UAE

Follow All the Traffic Signs.

The United Arab Emirates has traffic signals and signs, pretty similar to the rest of the world. These maintain the order of the traffic on roads. When you’re on the road, make sure to follow each sign and signal to be safe and avoid traffic fines.

Have an International Driving Permit (IDP).

If you’re going to stay for more than a year, get an IDP. Having an international Drivers License allows you to go outside the UAE territory legally. There is no need for further application or tests; an IDP is enough as a translation of your driver’s license.

Put on Your Seat Belt.

Although it seems to be very obvious, always wear your seat belt. Seat belts not only save you in case of an accident but also from a hefty fine of 400 AED in fines by the authorities. All persons are supposed to wear seat belts in a driving vehicle.

Be Within the Speed Limits.

The speed limits in UAE can vary depending on which emirate you’re driving in and where you’re driving. For example, Abu Dhabi has a general speed limit of 140 km/h, while Dubai has a limit of 100-120 km/h on its major highways.

All you have to do is adhere to the speed limits that are nominated for the particular location. If not, you can be charged a fine of 600 AED and 700 AED for exceeding the limit by 20-30 km/h and 30-40 km/h, respectively.

Keep a Safe Following Distance.

When driving, always maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle you’re driving after. As a general rule of thumb, keep a 3-5 second gap from the vehicle next to you. This much time-based distance is vital to deal with unexpected maneuvers.

Drive Carefully in the Rain.

In case it starts raining, slow down your vehicle, turn on the lights, and use the car wipers to maintain decent visibility. Maintain a longer distance of 5-7 seconds from the vehicle you are following. Apply brakes sooner than usual, as roads may be greasy.

Don’ts of Driving in UAE

Using a Phone.

Whether you’re driving or sitting in traffic, avoid using a phone. This is against traffic laws and leads to a hefty fine of 800 AED, along with four black points on your license. So, wait to pick up your phone until you reach your hotel, office, or a place to stay.

Driving On a Hard Shoulder.

A hard shoulder driving lane (blind area) is intended for emergency situations only, not for normal driving. DO NOT drive (or even overtake) from the hard shoulder as it’s strongly prohibited. You can be fined AED 1,000 with six black points on your license.

Drinking and Driving

Dubai has zero tolerance for drinking and driving, so avoid it at all costs. If you do so, you can face a fine of 20,000 AED, 23 black points on your license, and your vehicle confiscated for 60 days. In some cases, drivers can be sent to jail, too.

Conclusion

Driving in the UAE requires strict adherence to traffic rules. Do follow all traffic signs and signals, wear your seat belt, have an International Driving Permit (if necessary), stick to speed limits, and keep a safe following distance, especially in the rain.

Don't use your phone while driving, drive on the hard shoulder, or drink and drive. These actions can lead to heavy fines, black points on your license, and even jail time.