On a business tour or a fun-proof vacation! driving your own car provides you the ultimate freedom to explore. However, before kick-starting your journey on the road, understanding the driving rules in Dubai for tourists is crucial to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and legal journey.
At Babil Luxury Car Rent, we believe in keeping our customers informed, empowered, and protected while they ride in a premium vehicle across Dubai’s world-class roads.
Why Knowing Dubai’s Driving Rules is Crucial?
Dubai has a top-tier road infrastructure, but it is famously known for its stringent traffic rules. The city uses an advanced, AI-powered Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) center, the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre, to monitor traffic rules and ensure smooth traffic flow, employing technologies like AI, big data, and video analytics.
Here’s a speedy glance at Dubai’s driving regulations for tourists:
| Rule | Details |
| Drive on the | The right-hand side of the road |
| Speed Limits | 40-80 km/h (city), 100-120 km/h (highways) |
| Seat Belts | Mandatory for all passengers |
| Mobile Phone Usage | Only hands-free allowed |
| Alcohol Limit | Zero tolerance |
| Road Signs | Followed strictly; available in English & Arabic |
| Parking Rules | Follow signage and pay for metered zones |
| Indicator Usage | Compulsory for lane changes and turns |
| Fines | Can be hefty, often detected automatically |
Driving Rules in Dubai for Tourists: Key Point
Valid Driving License
UAE residents need a valid UAE driving license to rent a car, while visitors from GCC countries may use their home country licenses. Citizens from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and the US can also rent cars with their national licenses. For other nationalities, an international driving permit is required. Always check current RTA regulations before arriving.
Toll Gates – SALIK System
Dubai’s roads have electronic toll gates (called SALIK), and rental cars are already equipped with SALIK tags. Whatever the Charges made are automatically added to your rental bill.
Minimum Age to Drive in Dubai for Tourists:
Although there is different age criteria to drive diffrenet types of vehicles in Dubai but the minimum age to drive a car is 18 years in Dubai.
Minimum Age to Rent a Car in Dubai
One most common questions we get is the minimum age to rent a car in Dubai.Even though the legal age for driving is 18, the youngest age for renting a car is 21; however, certain supercar rental companies require drivers to be at least 25.
Penalties for Common Offenses (2025 Update)
Dubai follows a strict policy for traffic violations. Here’s a snapshot of recent fines:
| Offense | Fine (AED) |
| Using a phone while driving | 800 + 4 points |
| Not wearing seatbelt | 400 + 4 points |
| Jumping red light | 1,000 + 12 black points |
| Speeding (20 km/h over limit) | 300 |
Drive Dubai in elegance with Babil Luxury Car Rent
At Babil Luxury Car Rent, we provide a luxury driving experience tailored for tourists. We have all types of rental cars like Luxury Rental cars, SUV Rental cars, Sports Rental Cars, and Convertible Rental Cars. Whether you’re over 25 or looking for a car hire under 25, our team works with you to opt for the right car plan.
Why choose Babil Luxury?
- ✔️Latest luxury car models like Land Rover Defender, Audi AS TSFI 4S, Porsche 911 GTS, and more.
- ✔️ 24/7 customer support
- ✔️ Easy online booking
- ✔️ Transparent pricing with SALIK & insurance included
- ✔️ Short-term car rental plans for a week, month or more
- ✔️ Self-driving option for complete freedom
Final Thoughts: Driving Rules in Dubai for Tourists
To fully enjoy the city, every tourist should keep in mind the driving rules in Dubai for tourists. From age restrictions to road etiquette, knowing these rules not only keeps you legal but enhances your entire driving experience.
When you’re ready to rent your dream car, check out Babil Luxury Car Rent website(https://babilluxurycarrent.com/) to make your dream a reality and even you can contact us at +971567775794.