Car Rental Dubai

In order to legally operate a vehicle on the roads of Dubai, a person needs to possess a valid driving license. An International Driving License is accepted for tourists whereas residents can only apply for a license issued from the UAE. In the case of car rental, make sure your license is acceptable to the car rental agency.

The roads of Dubai are clearly labeled with the speed limits which are as low as 60 km/h in city zones and as high as 120 km/h in highways. Violations of these limits attract high fines as a penalty. It will be wise to always observe the speed limits and refrain from reckless driving.

It is obligatory to wear a seat belt when in a moving car to include the driver and passengers. Infants below 12 years are prohibited from occupying the front seat unless in an authorized rear facing car seat with the inflating air bag deactivated. In the back, they should be seated in correct safety or booster seats, whenever possible.

It is strictly prohibited to drink and drive cars in Dubai as the authority has a zero tolerance policy towards such actions. There is also legally prescribed 0% blood alcohol content and its violation entails rather severe consequences often involving imprisonment. If you are going to drink, make sure that you arrange for a sober driver or take a taxi to and from the place.

Road usage in this city is unique and therefore, one needs to be a little patient and more attentive while using the car. Always maintain a left side of the road, signal when turning or changing direction and always ensure that you have a 5 second gap between you and the car in front. The left most lane is the passing lane so stay in your right lanes unless you are overtaking.

In case of a roadside emergency, you can call the following numbers:

• Police – 999 or 112
• Ambulance – 998 or 112
• Fire Department – 997 or 112

It may be useful to download the DCAS SOS app for emergency ambulance services which has an SOS button that pinpoints your location.

The options available for parking in Dubai include on street parking along the roads, parking at the roadside stands, and parking in the multi-story car parks among others. Paying attention to parking signs will prevent one from being charged and always park in designated areas. Many rent a car services have details on parking options for your locale of residence.

Most of the time, you will be banned from operating your phone or any other gadgets while driving in Dubai. Always remember to keep your eyes on the road and if you need to use your hands, use a voice activated system.

When booking a car in Dubai, make sure that you are willing to pay for a deposit in case the car is damaged. The best way is to prevent a particular segment on the credit card, and the segment is released as soon as the car is returned without any problem.

Make sure that your rental car has valid insurance in the country you are driving it. When renting cars, insurance is provided as usual by most firms; one must, therefore, review their policy to determine what is covered and what is not.

Many of the cars for hire are limited to the UAE territory. In case you are planning on going to nearby countries such as Oman, then this is something you will need to organize on your own because most of the vehicles cannot be relocated to foreign territories.

Stop for emergency vehicles and never tailgate and do not race or pass any vehicle displaying emergency lights. Emergency vehicles are other vehicles that are on the roads or shoulders; they should be overtaken slowly if at all with the intention of stopping if need arises.