Driving Tips in Dubai/ UAE

Car Hire Depot information in Dubai

DriveAway Holidays offer unbeatable rates with our reputable suppliers in Dubai. These suppliers are all located at Dubai Airport terminal building and downtown depots located in the city. Dubai International Airport is located 7 kilometres from the city, approximately 10 minutes drive.

Car Hire Driving Distances in Dubai

• Abu Dhabi – 170 kms (2 hrs)
• Sharjah – 20 kms (20 mins)

Driving Licence

A full valid driver’s license is required for a minimum of 2 years. An International licence is required for Australian drivers licence holders.

Age Restrictions

Generally the minimum age is 21 years, but can vary between the car hire company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Rules and Regulations

General driving rules and regulations in the United Arab Emirates;

• Vehicles drive on the right hand side of the road.
• Seat belts are to be used by all passengers and driver.
• Driving while using a mobile is prohibited, with the exception of a hands free system.
• It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident without police permission.
• Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid drivers licence, registration documents and insurance documents.

Child Safety Seats

Children under 12 year olds should only be seated in the back seats of the vehicle and children under 4 should be secured in a child safety seat.

Speed Limits

Strict traffic regulations are enforced, with radars and speed cameras used by authorities. Below are the speed limits in the United Arab Emirates, unless signed otherwise;

• Urban Areas (built up areas): 50km/h
• Rural Roads (outside towns): 60-80km/h
• Motorways: 120km/h

Drink Driving

Motorists must not have any alcohol (0% BAC) while driving in the UAE.

Tolls

Tolls are payable on some roads and bridges in the United Arab Emirates. Tolls can only be paid electronically by attaching a Salik Tag on the front window, available for purchase at petrol stations and banks. Some rental cars will have these fitted, if used the supplier will invoice you accordingly.

Road Signs

Road signs in the United Arab Emirates are very similar to those used throughout Europe, although some can be found with unique differences such as colour, shapes, typeface or arrows. One example are the route number signs where a falcon shape is used for E-routes and a fort shape used for D-Routes. Most signs are commonly written in the countries local language Arabic, however English is also used on most major road signs. Warning Signs are mainly triangular in shape with a red border, white background and a black symbol/text in the middle. Prohibitory Signs are signs which motorists must follow. These signs are usually a circular shape however other shapes such as a octagon and a square are used. You'll find these signs in either blue with a white symbol in the middle and white with a red border. Information Signs provide motorists with information which are found in either a blue or green background with white text.

Parking

On-street parking in major cities such as Dubai operate on paid parking, using the pay-n-display system. Limits apply to on-street parking, be sure to check signage before leaving your vehicle, otherwise if extended parking is needed then search around for car parks. Most new shopping malls have fairly large car parks which are either free or charged per the hour.

Visa Information

Visa, passport and entry requirements or Australian's visiting the United Arab Emirates;

• Australian passport holders are permitted to enter the United Arab Emirates without a pre-obtained entry visa. An entry visa will be granted by UAE authorities upon arrival at any UAE Ports, which is valid for 30 days. Contact the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in your local state for additional information regarding visas.
• A valid passport with at-least 6 months validity is required.
• A return/onward travel ticket/itinerary is required.

*Please note distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.

Last Updated 9 June 2010