There is nearly as much as 70% of the population that drives on the right-hand side, and the likelihood of you being a part of that group is very high, especially if you are visiting Dubai. Now, with so much to already take on, such as rules for driving in the city and highway, driving etiquette, and unfamiliar scenery, we thought of bringing our expertise to help you out in this situation. We will throw some light on a few pointers that will ensure you a stress-free car rental experience.
Take a Gentle Spin
If it is your first time driving on the right, it would be wise to take the rental car for a short spin. That said, you need to find a quiet road where there is no traffic or pedestrians, so you are assured of a safe experience. Additionally, it will allow you to build confidence at your pace, thus reducing the likelihood of a collision due to pressure. A few practices will help you start being comfortable with right-hand driving.
Avoid Performing Stunts with Your Car
As mentioned, you need to first get a hold of yourself and be comfortable, especially if you plan on attempting complex maneuvers on the road. While you might like to give yourself the benefit of the doubt that you could pull this stunt thanks to your previous driving experience, you need to understand that right-hand driving is completely different from left-hand driving. The functions won’t be on the same side, forcing you to take a wrong action or decision. Hence, for your safety and others on the road, it is wise to save the stunts for later.
Get Help from Your Passenger
If you are not the only one in the car, it would be useful to ask them for help. Be it when reversing the car or parking in a tight spot, they can act as your navigator and ensure you complete the job with accuracy. It's also best to drive with someone who’s well aware of most roads, if not all, so you are a tad bit more confident on the road.
Overtake from the Left
Unlike in countries where vehicles overtake on the right, in Dubai, vehicles overtake on the left, which you need to be aware of at all times. So, it is wise to keep an eye on your left mirror and blind spot, especially when trying to overtake. You will often find heavy vehicles on the highway, so you need to be very cautious and careful when overtaking such vehicles.