Visiting Dubai for the first time? The best way to see the city is undoubtedly by car. While Dubai’s roads are world-class—wide, smooth, and well-signposted—driving in a new country can be intimidating.
At Carstreet, we want your rental experience to be safe and stress-free. Here is everything you need to know about driving in Dubai before you get behind the wheel.
1. Speed Limits and Radar Flashes
Dubai is strict about speed limits.
Highways: Usually 100 km/h to 120 km/h.
City Limits: Usually 60 km/h to 80 km/h.
Residential Areas: 40 km/h.
The "Buffer" Rule: In Dubai, there is often a 20 km/h buffer. If the sign says 100 km/h, the radar usually flashes at 121 km/h. However, always stick to the signed limit to be safe, as this rule can change depending on the road.
2. Understanding "Salik" (Toll Gates)
You won’t see toll booths where you stop and pay cash in Dubai. The system is entirely automated, called Salik.
How it works: When you drive under a Salik gate, a tag on your windshield is scanned.
For Rental Cars: All Carstreet vehicles come equipped with a Salik tag. You don’t need to
do anything! The toll charges (usually AED 4 per crossing) are simply calculated and
added to your final bill when you return the vehicle.
3. Lane Discipline is Key
Dubai highways can have up to 6 or 7 lanes.
Left Lane: strictly for overtaking and fast-moving traffic. Do not hog this lane if you are driving slowly.
Right Lanes: For slower traffic and exiting.
Indicators: Always use your indicators when changing lanes. It’s not just polite; it’s the
law.
4. Parking Zones Explained
Parking in Dubai is paid in most public areas (Monday to Saturday). Sundays are typically free.
How to pay: You can use the parking machines with coins, or more conveniently, use SMS parking or the RTA app.
Tip: Malls usually offer free parking for the first 3-4 hours (or unlimited on weekends), making them great hubs to park and explore nearby areas.
5. Documents You Need to Rent
To rent a car with Carstreet, the process is simple.
Residents: Emirates ID and UAE Driving License.
Tourists: Passport, Visa stamp, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) (depending on
your passport’s country of origin). Visitors from GCC, US, UK, Canada, and many EU
countries can often drive on their home license.
Why Rent with Carstreet?
We understand that driving in a new city comes with questions. That’s why we offer 24/7 customer support and comprehensive insurance options. If you have a flat tire or just a question about a location, we are one call away.
Drive with Confidence.
Experience the freedom of Dubai’s roads with a rental agency that puts your peace of mind first.
Contact Us or Book Online to start your Dubai journey smoothly.
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