The UAE is quite strict about its rules and regulations. The traffic authorities don’t allow compromises or leniency for people who flout the rules.
The Basics
You must be at least 18 years of age to drive a vehicle. You should always carry your driving license with you while driving. Using the seat belt is compulsory. If you have a child in your car, they should only sit in the front seat if they are 10 years old or older. Kids who weigh less than 36 kg should be seated in a booster seat.
Never use the phone while driving, unless on hands-free mode. Never drink or use drugs before driving. The UAE has very strict rules and severe penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are still finding your feet on UAE roads, an hourly driver can take the unfamiliar stretches in your own car while you learn the routes as a passenger.
Tips for safe driving
- Use your headlights during the night time: this helps you see the road and alerts other drivers to your presence.
- Leave enough distance between you and the car ahead, following the three-second rule.
- Keep a keen watch on your side mirrors, especially when crossing lanes, and never try to overtake other cars.
- Use your indicators properly and check rear-view and side-view mirrors at all times.
- If a car flashes its headlights at you, allow it to overtake. There’s no use resisting.
- Follow the speed limits: Residential Zones max 40 kmph; Urban Zones 40-80 kmph; Highways 100-120 kmph.
- Refrain from hand gestures or swearing at fellow drivers while driving in the UAE: this is considered offensive and can be punished severely.
- Pedestrians have the right of way under UAE traffic law. Violating pedestrian right of way can result in a fine of around AED 500 and 6 black points.
- Give way to trucks: truck drivers can be quite aggressive and fast.
Understanding black points
Be aware of the black points system when you are driving in the UAE, as this instills a sense of discipline. If you get 24 black points, you cannot drive anywhere in the UAE for one year.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol: 24 black points immediately
- Over-speeding: 12 black points
- Driving past a red light: 8 black points
Wildlife and weather hazards
One of the strangest hazards you might face is the trespassing of camels or goats. Stop your vehicle abruptly and wait for the animals to pass. In foggy or rainy climates, the best thing to do is pull over and wait patiently until visibility clears.
UAE can be quite challenging to drive in, especially if you are new to the country. Practicing during low-traffic times helps you get familiar with lane divisions and routes before tackling busier hours.
And after an evening out, a designated safe driver will bring both you and the car home: the one situation where the safest move is not to drive at all.