{{text}}
Dubai has modern, well-marked roads, but the first drive can feel unfamiliar. Multi-lane interchanges, fast-moving traffic, cameras and toll roads require attention. Once you understand the basics, driving around the city and between the emirates becomes much easier.
Documents and eligibility
Keep your driving licence, rental agreement and identification with you. A tourist may use a national licence only when it is accepted in the UAE for the driver’s nationality and visa type. In other cases, the original International Driving Permit must be carried together with the national licence.
How Salik works
Salik is Dubai’s electronic toll system. There are no booths or barriers: the car passes without stopping and the system reads its tag. Variable pricing applies, so the charge can depend on the day and time. VAT also applies to Salik transactions.
Tourists do not need to open an account for a rental vehicle. Crossings are recorded against the rental car and later added to the bill. Ask whether the company charges only the toll amount or also an administration fee.
Tourists do not need to open an account for a rental vehicle. Crossings are recorded against the rental car and later added to the bill. Ask whether the company charges only the toll amount or also an administration fee.
Paid parking
Dubai has municipal zones, private car parks, mall parking, hotel parking and residential parking. Read the nearest sign or meter. Check the zone code, chargeable hours, maximum stay and the plate number entered for payment.
Never use spaces reserved for People of Determination, block an entrance, stop on yellow markings or leave the car where it obstructs traffic. Even a brief stop can result in a fine or towing.
Never use spaces reserved for People of Determination, block an entrance, stop on yellow markings or leave the car where it obstructs traffic. Even a brief stop can result in a fine or towing.
Speed limits and cameras
Speed limits are displayed on signs and may change quickly when leaving a highway for a city street. Do not rely only on surrounding traffic. Cameras and automated systems monitor violations.
If you miss an exit, continue safely and let the navigation app recalculate. Crossing several lanes at the last moment is more dangerous than adding ten minutes to the journey.
If you miss an exit, continue safely and let the navigation app recalculate. Crossing several lanes at the last moment is more dangerous than adding ten minutes to the journey.
Phones, seat belts and children
Holding a phone while driving is distracting and can result in a fine. Set the route before moving, use a secure mount and rely on voice guidance. The driver and passengers should wear seat belts.
Young children need an appropriate restraint. Order a child seat in advance and provide the child’s age and approximate weight.
Young children need an appropriate restraint. Order a child seat in advance and provide the child’s age and approximate weight.
Lanes and merging
Move into the correct lane well before the exit. Follow overhead signs because a lane may separate earlier than expected. Use indicators, keep a safe distance and avoid remaining in the far-left lane when you are not overtaking.
What to do after an accident
Stop in a safe place, switch on the hazard lights and contact the rental company immediately. Even minor damage may require official documentation. Take photographs and keep all related documents.
Tips for your first drive
Plan the first trip outside peak traffic if possible. Secure the phone, use voice directions and review the required exit before joining the highway. Before a long drive, check fuel, water, tyres and phone battery.
During hot weather, never leave children, animals, electronics or aerosol cans inside the car.
During hot weather, never leave children, animals, electronics or aerosol cans inside the car.
Need a comfortable car for driving around Dubai? Choose an Easy Way vehicle and confirm the Salik, parking and insurance conditions before booking.