Many people considering a move to Dubai also want to drive there. Fuel prices in the UAE are among the lowest in the world, and getting around by car is the most common and popular way to travel in Dubai. This guide explains the basics of driving in Dubai.
Follow the traffic rules
Dubai has highly developed road infrastructure and a comfortable driving environment. At the same time, enforcement of traffic violations is strict, with speed cameras and surveillance cameras installed throughout the city. Violations are detected automatically and fines are issued, linked to the vehicle's license plate. As long as you follow the rules properly, anyone can enjoy safe and comfortable driving.
Can women drive in Dubai?
Yes, women can drive without any problem. In Dubai, anyone can obtain and hold a license regardless of gender, and many women drive every day. Some people picture "the Middle East" as a place where women cannot drive, but this is not at all the case in the UAE.
Can tourists drive in Dubai?
Tourists and short-term visitors can rent and drive a car as long as they have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and their home-country driving license. If you obtain an International Driving Permit in your home country before departure, you can rent a car smoothly on arrival. Note that if you obtain a UAE residence visa and become a resident, you will need to switch to a UAE driving license, as described below.
What driving license do you need? (How to convert your license)
Once you become a UAE resident, you can convert your existing driving license into a UAE driving license. The good news is that many countries — including the UK, the US and Japan — are on the RTA's list of countries eligible for exchange without a test, so in principle you do not need to take a theory or practical exam. Check the latest RTA list to confirm your country is included.
The main requirements and procedures are as follows.
- A valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- A valid driving license from an eligible country (with a certified translation into English or Arabic where required)
- A simple eye test
- Payment of the prescribed fee (roughly 950–1,500 AED as a guide)
The procedure itself is often completed in a few hours in Dubai and is relatively smooth. *Rules and fees are subject to change, so please check the latest information with the official authorities.
Which side of the road do you drive on? / Speed limits
In Dubai you drive on the right-hand side. The driver's seat is on the left (left-hand drive). If you are coming from a left-hand-traffic country such as the UK or Japan, you may feel confused at first, but most people get used to it naturally within a few days.
Speed limits are shown on road signs in km/h. In urban areas they are generally around 60–80 km/h, while on major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road around 100–120 km/h is common. Speeding is strictly enforced by camera, so always observe the posted speed limit.
What is Salik (the automated toll system)?
Salik is Dubai's automated road toll collection system (ETC). When you pass through a gate installed on certain main roads, the toll is automatically deducted from the account registered to the vehicle. There is no need to stop at a toll booth.
From 31 January 2025, a "variable pricing" system, where tolls change by time of day, was introduced. During weekday peak hours (06:00–10:00 in the morning and 16:00–20:00 in the evening) it is 6 AED per pass, off-peak it is 4 AED, and between 01:00 and 06:00 at night it is free (Sundays and the Ramadan period follow a different pricing scheme). With rental cars, Salik charges are often billed later, so it is reassuring to check when signing the contract.
Is driving in Dubai safe?
Dubai is very safe by global standards and has well-maintained roads, so if you follow the rules you can get around safely. That said, traffic moves quickly and there are situations with frequent lane changes, so be careful not to drive too fast or overtake recklessly. Stay calm and drive in line with the flow of traffic around you.
General points to note when driving
- The minimum driving age is 18.
- Keep a sufficient following distance; tailgating is strictly prohibited.
- Drink-driving is subject to complete zero tolerance (entirely prohibited). Even a small amount is subject to severe penalties.
- Wearing seatbelts is mandatory in all seats.
- Using a smartphone while driving is prohibited.
- In summer the inside of a car can become extremely hot, so take great care never to leave children or pets inside the vehicle.
If you follow the rules and good manners, car life in Dubai is very comfortable. Make the most of the wide roads and cheap fuel, and enjoy the freedom of getting around. SAMURAI REAL ESTATE is also happy to advise on life after relocation.