Beyond the economic savings, driving in Dubai is an experience in itself. Sweet memories from my road trips in Dubai include those moments when I drove and was impressed by the iconic skyline against the backdrop of the sunset. Driving on Dubai's roads is not complicated; the signage and traffic lights are very similar to those in your country. However, note that there are multiple lanes on the main highways, and it takes a day or two to familiarize yourself with the roads. I have prepared an article for you with everything you need to know—whom it's recommended to rent a car, the laws you should be aware of, and where you can compare prices.
When is it recommended to rent a car and when is it not? I highly recommend renting a car if at least one of the following conditions applies to you:
You are staying for more than 4 full days.
You plan to explore the entire city, attractions, points of interest, and engage in activities.
You are traveling with a large or family-sized vehicle.
You do not plan on consuming alcohol every night during your trip.
Here is some important information about car rental in Dubai:
Driving License: To rent a car in Dubai, you will need a valid driver's license. If you are a tourist, an international driving license is generally required. Make sure to carry both your original driver's license and international driving license while driving.
Age Requirement: The minimum age for renting a car in Dubai is typically 21 years old. However, some car rental companies may require the driver to be at least 25 years old, especially for luxury or high-performance vehicles. Additionally, young drivers (under 25) may be subject to additional fees or restrictions.
Reserving in Advance: It is recommended to book your car rental in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays when demand is high. This ensures availability and allows you to compare prices and choose the best option.
Rental Duration: Car rental periods in Dubai are typically based on 24-hour increments. It is important to return the vehicle on time to avoid any late fees or additional charges.
Insurance: When renting a car, basic insurance coverage is usually included. However, it's advisable to check the details of the coverage and consider additional insurance options, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), for extra protection.
Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations in Dubai before driving. For example, seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited. Speed limits are clearly indicated on the roads, and radar speed cameras are in place for enforcement.
Parking: Dubai has designated parking zones, including paid parking areas. Make sure to follow parking regulations and avoid parking in prohibited areas to avoid fines or having your vehicle towed.
Salik (Toll) System: Some roads in Dubai have toll gates called Salik. When driving through these gates, a fee is automatically deducted from a prepaid Salik tag or can be paid online within a specific time frame.
Fuel Stations: Dubai has numerous fuel stations, and they are generally self-service. Most stations accept cash and credit cards.
Roadside Assistance: Many car rental companies provide 24/7 roadside assistance in case of emergencies or breakdowns. Keep their contact information handy in case you need assistance during your rental period.
Remember to follow local traffic laws, be mindful of road conditions, and drive safely during your car rental experience in Dubai.
I highly recommend using this website to compare car rental prices, as many of my satisfied customers have found it very helpful. You can rent a car directly from the airport and return it there as well-
The perfect spot for pictures with the car: The Meydan Bridge The Meydan Bridge, located in Dubai, is a magnificent architectural marvel that offers a remarkable backdrop for capturing breathtaking photos with luxury cars. Spanning across the Dubai Water Canal, this bridge is a symbol of modernity and elegance. The Meydan Bridge's unique design features sleek lines, elegant curves, and stunning lighting, making it an ideal location for showcasing high-end and luxury vehicles. The bridge's futuristic aesthetic adds a touch of sophistication to any automotive photoshoot. Whether during the day or at night, the Meydan Bridge creates a captivating ambiance that enhances the visual appeal of luxury cars. The interplay of light and reflections on the water surface further adds to the overall allure, resulting in truly mesmerizing photographs. For car enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the essence of luxury and style, the Meydan Bridge in Dubai provides the perfect setting. Its architectural grandeur and scenic surroundings make it an iconic spot to showcase your prized luxury vehicles in a visually stunning manner. So, if you're seeking an extraordinary backdrop to capture unforgettable images with your luxury car, the Meydan Bridge in Dubai is an ideal location that will surely exceed your expectations.
Here's some additional information that can be helpful to you-
It is important to photograph the entire car the moment you rent it to avoid being blamed for any scratches or damages that were present before. Additionally, take photos of the car when returning it, and make sure there is insurance coverage for any damage that may occur along the way.
A tip from me: Throughout your stay in Dubai, use the "Waze" application for navigation, and set it to "Avoid Toll Roads" in the settings. Dubai has numerous toll roads, and each crossing will cost you around five dirhams. The toll road is called "Salik" and is marked by a large white sign with the word "Salik" on it.
Parking lots in all the malls in Dubai are free, so go ahead, do some shopping, and enjoy! This also applies to most attractions and landmarks.