Driving Regulations

1. Is it more economical to rent or buy a car in Dubai, and how challenging is it to drive here?

Whether to rent or buy a car in Dubai depends on the duration of your stay and your financial considerations. For short-term stays, renting is often the best option.
Driving in Dubai is relatively straightforward, with well-maintained roads and clear signages.

2. Who can rent and drive a car in Dubai, and what are the requirements?

Both residents and tourists can rent cars in Dubai.
Tourists can drive in Dubai with an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country’s driving license. However, residents need a UAE driving license.
People from certain countries, including India, can drive in Dubai without an IDP, but it’s always recommended to have one.
An Emirates ID is not mandatory for tourists to rent a car but is required for residents

3. What are the main road and lane rules in the Dubai, including the 3-second rule and overtaking rules?

In Dubai, the main road rule is to drive on the right side of the road. Overtaking
should always be done from the left side, and it’s crucial to ensure the lane you are
moving into is clear and safe.
The 3-second rule refers to the recommended safe following distance. Drivers should
ideally stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front to ensure they have
enough time to react in case of sudden stops.
Lane rules dictate that the far-left lane is generally for overtaking, while the far-right
lane is for slower-moving vehicles or for vehicles intending to exit the road.

4. What are the penalties and fines associated with traffic violations in Dubai, such as red
light crossing, over speeding & tailgating.

Crossing a red light in Dubai results in a fine of AED 1,000 & 12 black points. Fines
may vary and can be as high as AED 50,000 in some cases.
Over-speeding fines vary based on how much over the speed limit you were driving.
The fines can range from AED 300 to AED 3,000.
Tailgating, or not maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front, can result in a
fine of AED 400 and 4 black points.

5. What is the AED 50k fine?

The AED 50,000 fine is one of the highest traffic fines and is usually imposed for
severe violations, such as dangerous driving that endangers the lives of others.

6. How does the black point system work?

Drivers in Dubai start with zero black points, and points are added for traffic
violations. If a driver accumulates 24 black points within a year, their driving license may be suspended for 3 months or more.

7. How can drivers check, pay, and potentially remove traffic fines in Dubai?

Drivers can check their traffic fines in Dubai through the official Dubai Police website
or their mobile application.
Fines can be paid online through the Dubai Police portal, at police stations, or at RTA
service centres.
Some fines may be eligible for discounts if paid in specific time periods and may also
be removed if the driver attends certain driving awareness courses.

8. What are the general road safety rules and speed limits for drivers in Dubai?

Dubai road safety rules emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts, not using
mobile phones while driving and not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Speed limits vary based on the type of road. It’s essential to always check and adhere
to the speed limit signs.

9. How do toll roads work in Dubai, and what are the associated charges and rules, especially
for rental cars?

In Dubai, the toll system is known as “Salik.” Every time you pass through a Salik toll
gate, the toll amount is automatically deducted from your Salik account.
It’s mandatory for all vehicles to have a Salik tag when driving in Dubai. Driving
without a Salik tag or with an insufficient balance can result in fines.

10. What are the penalties associated with Salik violations in Dubai?

Driving through a Salik gate without a Salik tag or with an insufficient balance can
result in a fine. The fine for not having a Salik tag is AED 100 for the first time, AED
200 for the second time, and AED 400 for the third time and thereafter.

11. How can I pay for Salik and other toll charges in Dubai?

Salik charges can be paid by topping up your Salik account through various methods,
including online payments, bank apps, and authorized Salik retailers.
All rental cars from MPH Car Rental come with pre-loaded Salik Tags.

12. How can I avoid or minimize toll charges in Dubai?

To avoid toll charges, drivers can use alternative routes that don’t pass through Salik
gates. However, these routes might be longer and could have more traffic.