Dubai Driving Rules: The Essential Guide for Tourists
This guide explains how to drive legally, safely, and confidently during your stay in the Emirates.
Driving License Requirements for Visitors
Before driving in Dubai, tourists must meet the official requirements set by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA).
Who Can Drive with a Foreign License?
Visitors from approved countries — including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union countries — may drive using their valid home country driving license.
Tourists from non-approved countries must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP must always be carried together with the original driving license.
Required Documents
- Original valid driving license
- International Driving Permit (if required)
- Original passport and copy of visit visa
- Vehicle registration card from the rental company
The minimum age to rent a car in Dubai is usually 21 years, depending on vehicle category.
Understanding Traffic Laws and Fines
Traffic laws in the UAE are strictly enforced through cameras and police patrols. Violations are recorded automatically and fines are applied without warning.
Speed Limits in Dubai
- Major highways: typically 100–120 km/h
- Urban roads: usually 60–80 km/h
- Residential areas: commonly 25–40 km/h
Speed cameras are widely used, and some highways have minimum speed limits.
Zero-Tolerance for Alcohol
The UAE applies a strict zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Any detectable amount of alcohol while driving is illegal.
Penalties may include:
- Fines up to AED 20,000
- Possible imprisonment
- Vehicle impoundment
- Potential deportation
Common Traffic Violations
- Using a mobile phone while driving: AED 1,000 fine and 4 black points
- Exceeding the speed limit by more than 60 km/h: AED 3,000 fine and 12 black points
- Not wearing a seatbelt: AED 400 fine and 4 black points
- Driving under the influence: Court decision and vehicle impoundment
For rental vehicles, fines are forwarded to the rental company and charged to the renter with an administrative fee.
Navigating Roundabouts and Tolls (Salik)
Roundabout Driving Rules
Understanding UAE roundabout driving rules is essential for safe city driving.
- Vehicles inside the roundabout have priority
- Select the correct lane before entering
- Signal right before exiting the roundabout
The Salik Toll System
Salik is Dubai’s electronic toll system. Each time a vehicle passes a Salik gate, AED 4 is automatically charged.
For rental cars, Salik fees are calculated by the rental company and added to the final invoice.
Key Safety and Parking Regulations
Safety Rules
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, including rear seats
- Children under four years old must be seated in a child safety seat
- Overtaking is permitted only from the left side
Parking in Dubai
Most public parking areas are paid zones.
- Payment via RTA mobile application
- SMS parking payment
- Parking meters using coins or Nol card
Parking violations are strictly monitored and fined.
Dubai Driving Rules FAQs for Tourists
Can I drive to Abu Dhabi or other Emirates?
Yes, driving between Emirates is allowed. Inform the rental company in advance. Abu Dhabi operates the Darb toll system.
What is the fine for using a mobile phone while driving?
The fine is AED 1,000 and 4 black points.
How long is my tourist license valid in Dubai?
Your driving rights are valid for the entire duration of your visit visa.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Dubai?
The minimum age is usually 21 years old.
How does Salik work for rental cars?
The rental company pays the tolls automatically and charges the renter at the end of the rental period.
Are driving rules in Abu Dhabi the same as in Dubai?
The core UAE driving rules are the same, but speed limits and fine amounts may vary slightly.
What are the UAE roundabout driving rules?
Traffic inside the roundabout has priority, and drivers must signal when exiting.
What is the penalty for drinking and driving?
The UAE enforces a zero-tolerance policy, with penalties decided by the court.
Are seatbelts mandatory for rear passengers?
Yes, seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Where can I find the official Dubai driving rules PDF?
Official guidance is available on RTA and Dubai Police websites.
What is the fine for exceeding the speed limit?
Fines start from AED 300 and increase depending on the excess speed.
Do I need an IDP if I have a US driving license?
No, US driving licenses are accepted without an International Driving Permit.