Licence, Salik tolls, fines and cameras, parking and the basic road rules — what to know before you get behind the wheel in Dubai.
Driving in Dubai is comfortable: wide roads, clear markings and strict order. But there are a few local specifics — licences, tolls, cameras and parking — worth understanding in advance. This guide covers the basics for a tourist.
To rent and drive, a tourist usually needs a national licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP). UAE residents need a local licence. Requirements change periodically and depend on the issuing country, so check the current terms for your situation in advance.
Dubai uses the Salik toll system: gantries at certain interchanges deduct a fixed charge as you pass. On rentals Salik is usually tied to the rental account, so at booking confirm exactly how it's billed and added to your total.
Speed limits in the UAE are enforced densely by cameras, plus lane and crossing cameras. Fines are tied to the vehicle. With a rental they're generally charged to the renter. A practical tip — return the car a day before your flight so there's time to settle any fines and Salik.
The city has paid parking zones. Payment is via apps or meters. Malls and hotels usually have their own car parks. Check the zone rules to avoid a fine for unpaid parking.
If you hold a licence and are ready to track Salik, fines and parking, car rental gives full freedom. If you'd rather avoid that or don't hold a local licence, a car with a driver removes the navigation, parking and fines questions.
We'll help you choose the format — self-drive or a car with a driver. Tell us your plan and we'll suggest the best option.
Tourists need a national licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP). UAE residents need a local licence. Rules change periodically, so check the current requirements for your country in advance.
It's Dubai's road toll system. Gantries sit at certain interchanges, and a fixed charge is deducted from the account linked to the car when you pass. With a rental, check how Salik is billed — it's usually added to the rental account.
Dubai has many speed and lane cameras. Fines are tied to the vehicle. With a rental they're usually charged to the renter — so it's best to return the car early to settle any fines in time.
Yes, traffic is right-hand. Roads are wide and well-marked, but speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras.
If you hold a licence and are ready to track Salik, fines and parking — self-drive. If you'd rather avoid that or don't hold a local licence, a car with a driver removes all of it.