Dubai is a city of ambition, luxury, and world-class infrastructure. The expansive highways, tall skyscrapers, and desert deserts await to be explored, and there is no better way to do so than in a rented vehicle. Before you drive away in a rented car, it is vital to understand the laws and regulations surrounding the process.
For those visiting the city for either business or leisure, renting a car offers a convenient and enjoyable way to see all that Dubai has to offer. But there are some rules and responsibilities every driver — especially visitors — must consider.
Knowing the laws will help you avoid potential fines, legal trouble, or needless expenses.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the necessary rules and regulations regarding Dubai car rentals and driving, and things you should know before you get behind the wheel.
Age Requirements to Rent a Car
The minimum age to drive in the UAE is 18 years old. However, the minimum age to rent a car from many companies is 21 years old, while some require a minimum age of 25 years old to rent a high-end or sports car.
Key points to remember:
You need to have a valid driving license for a minimum period (usually one year).
There are age-related surcharges if you are under 25.
The kind of car you can rent may depend on your age.
Driving License and International Driving Permit (IDP)
To rent a car in Dubai, you will need:
A valid driving license from your home country.
An International Driving Permit (IDP), based on your nationality.
Those from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries can drive with a license from their home country. However, if your license is not in English or Arabic, or you are from a country not recognized by the UAE’s driving license list, you will need an IDP.
Residents of the UAE need to have a UAE driving license, even if they have a foreign license.
Insurance Rules
Every vehicle on the roads of Dubai needs to be insured. Most rental packages will include basic insurance, but you should know what this covers:
Third-party liability — will cover you for damages caused to others, but not the rental car.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) — is optional, but advisable. Reduces your liability for damage to the rental car.
Theft protection — is usually part of comprehensive policies.
Be sure to read the insurance terms carefully. Make sure off-road driving is covered if you are planning to go off-road in the desert.
Salik Toll System
Dubai has a Salik toll system, which is an electronic toll system. This means that a charge is taken automatically when you drive under the toll gates.
Key points to remember:
Every gate charges AED 4.
Tolls are paid using a tag placed on the windshield of the vehicle.
Charges incurred during your rental will be billed to you at a later date, with an admin fee.
Make sure to ask about Salik fees and how these are handled with your rental company.
Traffic Rules and Etiquette
Driving in Dubai is safe, but this city is known for fast-moving traffic. So, violating traffic rules can lead to heavy fines or even having the vehicle impounded.
Rules include:
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Using a mobile phone while driving is forbidden, unless you are using a hands-free device.
Speed limits are strictly enforced using radars.
Tailgating, cutting off, and swerving is seen as dangerous driving.
Use indicators for all lane changes or turns.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in deportation.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are clearly marked on the roads in Dubai. The limits vary depending on the location and the type of road:
Urban roads — 60-80 km/h
Motorways — 100-120 km/h
Residential areas — 25-40 km/h
There is a 20 km/h buffer zone for speeding, before fines come into play. Some roads have no buffer zone and have a zero-tolerance policy.
Fines for speeding can range from AED 300 to AED 3,000 and can result in black points or the impounding of the car.
Parking Rules
Parking in Dubai is regulated by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority). Most areas are paid parking, and fines apply for any breaches.
Points to remember:
Use parking meters or the mobile app (mParking by SMS).
Parking rates differ depending on the zone and time.
Don’t park in disabled zones, taxi stands, or private driveways.
If illegally parked, the car can be towed or fined AED 200 or more.
Fueling Up
Dubai has full-service and self-service petrol stations. The UAE use Unleaded Super 98, Special 95, and E-Plus 91 fuel.
Key points to remember:
You can pay for fuel by card or cash at the pump or in the cashier.
Fuel prices are changed monthly.
Most rental vehicles require Super 98 or Special 95 fuel — check before filling up.
Make sure to return the car with the fuel level agreed upon in your rental agreement, if required to do so.
Child Safety Laws
If you are traveling with children, Dubai has strict child safety laws:
Children under four years of age need to be secured in a child safety seat.
It is illegal for children under ten years of age to sit in the front seat.
Make sure your rental company offers the option to request a car seat.
If you violate these rules, you can receive a fine and black points.
Road Signage and Navigation
Road signs in Dubai are written in both Arabic and English, which makes navigation a lot easier for tourists. It is important to use a GPS or navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze for accurate and up-to-date information.
Dubai’s road system uses:
Clear lane guidance
Roundabouts and signal junctions
Smart traffic lights
Don’t drive in bus or taxi lanes — these are reserved and monitored.
Off-Road Driving Restrictions
Planning a desert safari or mountain trip? You should know:
Most rental agreements prohibit off-road driving unless otherwise stated.
Insurance doesn’t cover damage from off-road driving.
You need a 4×4 to explore sand dunes or mountainous areas.
Unauthorised off-road driving can result in expensive recovery fees.
Fines and Penalties
Dubai uses a high-tech system that involves cameras, radars, and patrols, which issue fines for:
Speeding
Not wearing seatbelts
Using a mobile phone while driving
Illegal parking
Tailgating
All traffic fines are added to the car’s registration and will be billed to you by the rental company. Make sure to check for pending fines before returning your vehicle.
Accidents and Emergency Procedures
If you are involved in a road accident:
Move the vehicle to the side (if minor) and turn on the hazard lights.
Call 999 for the police or 998 for medical emergencies.
Wait for the police report, which is needed for insurance claims.
Don’t leave the scene without notifying the authorities.
Vehicle Return Rules
If you return the rental car late, you may incur hourly or full-day penalties. Also, you should return the vehicle:
Clean and without personal belongings
With the agreed fuel level
Without any damage or disclosed problems
Make sure to pay all Salik tolls and fines, or make arrangements to do so before return.
COVID-19 Safety Guidelines (If Applicable)
Even though most restrictions have been lifted, it is important to check current health and hygiene regulations regarding:
Sanitization of rental vehicles
Masks in indoor areas
Travel insurance requirements
Conclusion
With a rented car, you can enjoy Dubai in all its glory. From exploring the bustling nightlife and world-class malls to desert drives and beachside cruises, you have endless opportunities. But with this freedom comes responsibility.
By understanding the rental process, following local traffic rules, and knowing the key legal guidelines, you can avoid costly mistakes and make your trip safe and stress-free.
Whether you are a first-time driver in the UAE or a returning tourist, double-check the rules, check your vehicle, and drive with caution. It’s the safest way to drive — not just for you, but also for your passengers and other drivers.
With the right preparation, Dubai car rental becomes not just a mode of transport but a key to exploring all that Dubai has to offer.
