The emirate of Dubai has a very good and well signposted road network. The quality of the roads are excellent and rival any modern city in the US or Europe. Most roads are two and four lane with the main arterial roads having 4-6 lanes in each direction. Driving is on the right hand side of the road and speed limits are strictly enforced through the use of radars. The position of the radars are often changed, so it is important to be vigilant.
Over the past two decades, Dubai has built an impressive road system. Its Road and Transport Authority (RTA) with its customer-focused approach is powering a change through its vision “Safe and smooth transport for all.” A massive expansion is currently underway and number of projects are in varying degrees of completion including double decker roads and creek crossings among others. The new roads and roads will ease the traffic jams in this fast paced and ever growing city.

Car Hire
Self-drive cars are available from car rental companies for visitors who have an international driving licence. Customers must produce their passport along with the valid licence and credit card. Visitors without an international driving licence may obtain a temporary local driving licence as long as they hold a valid national licence from one of the following countries: Germany, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Greece, Turkey, UK, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. A valid national licence and two photographs, and your passport are required to obtain the temporary licence. Fully comprehensive insurance is essential. In the event of an accident, the police must be immediately informed and a written report obtained, otherwise the car hire company’s insurance might not cover any damages. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age and have held a full licence for one year. Often the age limit is raised to 25 years for more expensive models. Collision damage waiver is sometimes additional.

Almost all the major international car hire firms are present in Dubai and you will find a line of counters at the Dubai International Airport from where can hire your car the moment you arrive. You may also wish to book your vehicle in your home country even before you leave for Dubai.

Tips

• Seat belts are compulsory and it is illegal to use handheld mobile phones while driving.
• Certain minor traffic offences incur on-the-spot fines.
• Drinking and driving is illegal and the maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio for driving is zero.
• Highways and main roads are designated by an Emirate Route number.
• Blue or green signs indicate the main areas or locations out of the city and brown signs show heritage sites, places of interest and hospitals.
• Speed limits are clearly displayed and are usually 60-80 kph (37-50 mph) around town and 100 - 120 kph (62-74 mph) on highways.
• Emergency breakdown service: Arabian Automobile Association.

For more information, visit www.aaa-uae.com