Travelling by Road in Dubai

When driving in Dubai and other UAE countries you must obey local law, please see information below:

• Recent changes to the law now allow British nationals who are in the UAE on a visit visa to drive a car using their British driving licence.. A British national living in the UAE with a residence permit must obtain a UAE driving licence. UAE licences can be obtained from the traffic department by expatriates with valid residency visas.
  
  
• Driving standards are not always as disciplined as in the UK and the rate of traffic accidents is significantly higher. If you have a motor accident, you should ensure you follow the rules of the Emirate you are in. In Abu Dhabi, if no one has been hurt and vehicle damage is minor, drivers should move their vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic; otherwise, the vehicles should not be moved. In Dubai, you should only move your vehicle if it is causing an obstruction to other motorists. In the other Emirates, you may only move your car if it is a minor accident and both parties agree on the responsibility for the accident. In all cases, the police must be called, and it is an offence to leave the scene of the accident before the police have arrived. Even minor expressions of 'road rage', such as rude gestures, can attract significant penalties. It is strongly in your own interests to display calm at all times.
  
  
• Because it is a criminal offence in the UAE to drink and drive, no matter how small the amount, your insurance is likely to be invalidated, leaving you to pay the claims of other parties involved. You also risk imprisonment. If you are in the slightest doubt, take a taxi.
  
  
• Excursions to the desert can be dangerous unless undertaken in adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicles. You should always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.