Driving in Dubai
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Dubai
IDP Required
IDP required for most nationalities. Some countries (US, UK, EU) can drive with home license for short stays.
Fine without IDP: AED 500-3,000 ($136-816)
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country before traveling.
Accepted Licenses
Traffic Rules in Dubai
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Drive on the RIGHT (like USA)
- 2Speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras
- 3Salik toll gates are electronic (no stopping)
- 4Zero tolerance for drink driving
- 5Using phone while driving - heavy fines
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Speeding - cameras everywhere
- Not knowing Salik toll locations
- Tailgating (common locally but illegal)
- Road rage incidents
- Getting confused on large interchanges
Horn Culture
Moderate. Some impatient honking in traffic.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
AED 300-3,000 ($82-816)
No Helmet
AED 500 ($136)
No IDP
AED 500-1,000 ($136-272)
Red Light
AED 1,000 ($272) + 12 points
Drink Driving
AED 20,000+ ($5,450+) + jail + deportation
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Dubai is generally safe for driving
- Watch for aggressive drivers on Sheikh Zayed Road
- Sandstorms reduce visibility - slow down
- Never drink and drive - zero tolerance
- Keep water in car during summer
Best Time to Drive
Evening (after 6 PM) when traffic eases and heat drops
Rainy Season Warning
December-February: Rare but heavy rain can cause floods and accidents. Drivers not used to wet conditions.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Sheikh Zayed Road during rush hour
- Dubai Marina area on weekends (congested)
- Any highway during Eid holidays
Parking
Average Cost
AED 2-10/hour ($0.55-2.75)Scooter Parking
Available but not common. Most park in regular spots.
Parking Tips
- Most malls have free parking
- Street parking requires payment via app
- Valet parking common at hotels/restaurants
- Underground parking in summer (extreme heat)
FAQ: Driving in Dubai
Can tourists drive in Dubai?
Yes. Most nationalities need an IDP. US, UK, and EU license holders can drive with their home license for short visits.
What is Salik in Dubai?
Salik is the electronic toll system. Rental cars have Salik tags - tolls are charged automatically and added to your rental bill.
Can I drink and drive in Dubai?
Absolutely not. UAE has zero tolerance for alcohol while driving. Penalties include jail and deportation.
Emergency Contacts
Police
999
Ambulance
998
Roadside Assistance
AAA Emirates: 800-4222
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Practice for Your United Arab Emirates Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.