Driving in Dubai as a Tourist: What You Need to Know

Dubai is one of the easier Middle Eastern cities to drive in — wide roads, English signage, GPS everywhere, no honking at tourists. The rules are strict, enforcement is camera-based, and fines are heavy. Here's a short practical guide.

Can you drive on a foreign licence?

Tourists from 50+ countries (UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, Russia, India, China, Japan, GCC and more) can drive for 30 days on their home licence paired with the matching rental agreement. If your licence isn't in Latin alphabet, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended.

Salik tolls

Automatic road tolls on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud Bridge, Al Maktoum Bridge and 10+ gantries. 4 AED per crossing, no cash — the rental car has a prepaid tag, charged at return. Expect 20–40 AED/day of Salik in central Dubai.

Speeding and fines

Speed cameras everywhere, including in-car radar from traffic police. Even 10 km/h over triggers 300–500 AED. 50+ over = 2,000 AED + possible licence confiscation. All fines link to the rental; the company bills you plus a 50–100 AED admin fee.

Parking

Metered paid parking in central Dubai, free in malls (first 4 hours). Pay via SMS (text your plate + zone to 7275) or Mobi app. Free Friday mornings before noon.

Road culture

Lane discipline is slack — right-lane overtaking happens. Keep left on Sheikh Zayed if moving fast. Hazard lights = "I'm in trouble". Headlight flash = "get out of my way". Avoid 07:30–09:30 and 17:00–19:30 if possible — city grinds.