UAE has garnered significant attention from tourists in the previous decade, making it a tourist hot spot in the region. That said, for travellers, several transportation options are available to explore the varied landscapes. Amidst these options, getting behind the wheel and exploring every corner of the Emirate takes the lead. However, whether tourists are allowed to drive in the country or not piques the curiosity among travellers.
For your convenience, here we have elaborated on whether driving in the UAE as a tourist is possible or not.
Driving in the UAE As a Tourist
Tourists with international licences are permitted to drive in the UAE. However, the licence should be obtained from their homeland. That said, the international driving licence is valid for one year, and visitors staying more than one year are recommended to either transfer their existing licence or get a UAE driving licence. That said, here is how to get a new driving licence in the UAE. Visitors from GCC countries are exempted from this condition; they are allowed to drive on their home country licence in the UAE.
People with nationalities of approved countries can get their licence converted into a UAE driving licence, when planning to stay longer in the Emirate. Here is how to get a Dubai driving licence on the basis of exchanging licence.
Please remember that citizens of South Korea, Greece, Japan, Poland and Turkey are required to get their licences translated into Arabic or English. Moreover, Canadian citizens will require a letter from the Canadian Consulate in the UAE.
Tips for Driving in UAE As a Tourist
UAE has strict driving rules and regulations, and every driver is obligated to follow these rules. There are next-generation traffic cameras installed at different locations to monitor the traffic flow. That said, here are some tips for driving in the UAE as a tourist.
Driving Licence and Age Limit
To drive legally in the UAE, tourists must have a valid international driving licence or licence from their home country (for GCC citizens). The licence should be either in English or Arabic; if not, then the tourist should get the licence officially translated. Moreover, it is recommended to carry your driving licence and passport all the time when driving.
The minimum age for driving in the UAE is 18 years, but for tourists, car rental companies in Ajman and other Emirates might have their own set of rules. That said, it is necessary to check with the rental company before planning to rent a car and drive in the UAE.
If you are visiting the Emirates for the first time, here is how to rent a car in Dubai and other Emirates.
Right Side Driving
The UAE has a right-side driving rule, in which the steering is present at the right hand. If you are experiencing it for the first time, it’s better to practise prior to hitting the roads. Also, the UAE has certain driving restrictions, such as wearing a seatbelt, which is compulsory for both drivers and passengers, which might be considered a minor offence in other countries.
For instance, drivers will be fined for stopping a vehicle in the middle of the road. Here are some reasons why stopping a car can lead to penalties. That said, familiarising with the country’s traffic laws is necessary to avoid legal problems.
Speed Limit
Tourists are obligated to adhere to the speed limits set up by the government. Generally, the speed limit is 40 km/h to 60 km/h in urban areas and 60 km/h to 120 km/h on highways. However, the speed limit varies from area to area.
If you are unfamiliar with the speed limits, read through our blog on road speed limits in the UAE for detailed information.
Parking Rules
Drivers are only allowed to park their vehicles in the designated charged parking spaces. You can either opt for digital or cash payment, depending on the parking space. Make sure you have enough knowledge about car parking in the UAE, as parking at the wrong place may lead to penalties.
Toll Tax
Tourists planning to travel between Emirates and using highways should pay the toll tax. The toll tax collection is electronic; drivers can obtain their tax stickers from the concerned authorities after paying a certain amount. For more convenience, travellers can also avail of the Salik tag for tourists available in Dubai.
Drinking and Driving
The UAE has strict policies against drinking and driving. Guilty drivers can earn up to 24 black points, and the vehicle will be confiscated for 60 days. Here is how you can check your black points in the UAE.
FAQs
What do tourists require to drive in the UAE?
Tourists with a valid international driving licence can drive in the UAE. Tourists from GCC countries can drive on their home country licence.
Is a Qatari driving licence valid in UAE on a tourist visa?
Yes, Qatar is included in GCC countries; tourists with a Qatar driving licence can drive in the UAE without an international licence.
Can women drive in the UAE?
Yes, women in the UAE have the same driving rights as men. Any woman above the age of 18 with a valid driving licence can drive in the UAE.
This was all about driving in the UAE as a tourist. There are a number of car rental companies offering their services to the tourists. However, they have certain regulations that every driver must follow. That said, if you are planning to travel freely and explore every corner of the Emirate, buy your car. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and buy a car as per your budget for travelling across the country.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on driving in Russia with a UAE licence as a tourist.
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