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Car Rental in the United Arab Emirates

When visiting the United Arab Emirates, renting a car can be a convenient and efficient way to explore the country. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, having the flexibility to move around at your own pace can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local driving laws and requirements before hitting the road.

Understanding Local Driving Laws

In the United Arab Emirates, driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and the minimum age for driving is 18 years old. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and the use of mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited. It is also important to be aware of the speed limits, which are strictly enforced, and to carry your driver’s license, passport, and vehicle registration documents at all times.

Requirements for Renting a Car

To rent a car in the United Arab Emirates, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in English or Arabic, you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit. Additionally, most car rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name to secure the rental.

In conclusion, renting a car in the United Arab Emirates can enhance your travel experience, but it is essential to understand and adhere to the local driving laws and requirements. By doing so, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in this beautiful country.

Rental Requirements

Age Limits

In the United Arab Emirates, the minimum age for renting a car is typically 21 years old, although some rental companies may require renters to be at least 25 years old. Additionally, there may be a maximum age limit for renting a car, usually around 65 years old.

Driving License Requirements

To rent a car in the United Arab Emirates, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country. Some car rental companies may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-Arabic speaking visitors. The duration for holding a license is usually a minimum of one year.

Documentation

When renting a car in the United Arab Emirates, you will need to provide a valid passport, a valid driver’s license, and a credit card for the rental deposit. Some rental companies may also require additional documentation, so it’s best to check with the specific rental company before your trip.

Insurance Information

When renting a car in the United Arab Emirates, it’s important to be aware of the insurance options available to you.

Basic Insurance

The basic insurance typically includes Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers the cost of repairs in case of an accident, while Theft Protection covers the cost of the car if it is stolen.

Additional Insurance

In addition to the basic insurance, there are options for additional coverage such as Personal Accident Insurance and Supplemental Liability Insurance. Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage for medical expenses in case of an accident, while Supplemental Liability Insurance provides additional liability coverage for third-party damages.

Insurance Tips

For travelers renting a car in the United Arab Emirates, it is recommended to check existing travel insurance policies to see if they already include coverage for rental cars. This can help avoid paying for duplicate coverage and save money on insurance costs.

Local Driving Laws and Regulations in the United Arab Emirates

General Traffic Rules

Driving Side: Driving is on the right side of the road in the United Arab Emirates.
Speed Limits: The typical speed limits are 40-60 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on rural roads, and 120-140 km/h on highways.
Other Useful Info: Traffic signals and signs are in Arabic and English.

Overtaking and Lane Usage

Overtaking Rules: Overtaking is only allowed on the left, and drivers must use indicators while changing lanes.
Lane Discipline: The ‘keep right except to overtake’ rule is strictly enforced on multi-lane roads.
Other Useful Info: Be cautious of tailgating and aggressive driving.

Seat Belt and Child Safety

Seat Belt Laws: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers, and children under 10 years old must use a child car seat.
Child Safety: Children under 135 cm in height must be in a child car seat.
Other Useful Info: It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts.

Use of Mobile Phones

Mobile Phone Restrictions: Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, except for hands-free devices.
Other Useful Info: Fines for using a mobile phone while driving are steep.

Alcohol and Driving

Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0% for all drivers.
Zero Tolerance Policies: There are zero tolerance policies for all drivers, including new drivers and commercial drivers.
Other Useful Info: Penalties for driving under the influence are severe.

Tolls and Charges

Toll Roads: There are toll roads in the UAE, and payment is typically through electronic toll collection systems.
Congestion Charges: There are no urban congestion charges in the UAE.
Other Useful Info: Make sure to have the necessary payment methods for toll roads.

Roundabouts and Intersections

Navigating Roundabouts: Roundabouts are common and drivers inside the roundabout have the right of way.
Intersection Rules: Traffic signals and signs indicate the right of way at intersections.
Other Useful Info: Be cautious of aggressive driving at intersections.

Headlight and Windshield Wiper Laws

Headlight Usage: Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day.
Windshield Wiper Rule: There is no specific requirement to turn on headlights when using wipers.
Other Useful Info: Sandstorms may reduce visibility, so use caution and reduce speed.

Emergency Vehicles

Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles: Pull over to the right and stop when an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and lights on.
Other Useful Info: Failure to give way to emergency vehicles can result in heavy fines.

Driving Tips for United Arab Emirates

Road Conditions

The road conditions in the United Arab Emirates are generally good, with well-maintained highways and modern infrastructure. However, drivers should be aware of occasional sandstorms and desert terrain, especially in more remote areas.

Urban vs. Rural Driving

In urban areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, driving can be fast-paced and aggressive, with heavy traffic and complex road systems. In rural areas, the roads are often quieter, but drivers should still be cautious of potential hazards like wandering camels or other wildlife.

Navigational Tips

For navigating the UAE, it is recommended to use a GPS system or a reliable map, especially for exploring the desert areas. Signage is generally clear and in both Arabic and English, but having a GPS can help with finding specific locations and navigating through the cities.

Other Useful Tips

– Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the UAE, and driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
– Speed limits are strictly enforced, and radar traps are common, so it’s important to adhere to the posted limits.
– Parking regulations are strictly enforced in urban areas, so be sure to park in designated areas and pay any required fees to avoid fines.

Renting a car in the United Arab Emirates can be a convenient way to explore the country, but it’s important to be aware of the unique driving conditions and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Roadside Assistance and Emergency Procedures

Breakdown Procedures

In the event of a breakdown while renting a car in the United Arab Emirates, it is important to remain calm and follow these steps:
1. Pull over to a safe location, if possible.
2. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
3. Contact the rental company’s roadside assistance hotline for further instructions.
4. If instructed to do so, wait for a tow truck to arrive and transport the vehicle to a repair facility.

Emergency Services

It is essential to have access to emergency services contact numbers while driving in the United Arab Emirates. In case of an emergency, dial the following numbers:
– Police: 999
– Ambulance: 998
– Roadside Assistance: Contact the rental company for their specific hotline number.

Rental Company Policies

When renting a car in the United Arab Emirates, rental companies typically provide 24/7 roadside assistance and towing services as part of their support offerings. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the rental company you choose to ensure you understand the level of support available to you in case of an emergency.

Where can you Rent a Car in United Arab Emirates?

You can browse all the city locations below, sorted alphabetically. Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) to quickly find the one you want to explore.