6 Things All Women Should Know About Driving in the UAE

Since 2018, when the UAE lifted the ban on women driving, the country’s road environment has changed drastically. Today, you’ll find women-only taxis driven by women and, if you are a luxury car enthusiast, you can also join Arabian Gazelles, the exclusive women-only supercar club based in Dubai. 

But while driving in Dubai or Abu Dhabi is an unmissable experience, there are a few tips you need to know to make your journey safer and more enjoyable. Check out the guidelines below before getting behind the wheel in the UAE!

Whether you are an expat looking to relocate permanently to the Emirates or you are simply visiting Dubai for leisure, getting behind the wheel is one of the best ways to upgrade your travel experience in the UAE. 

However, before renting or buying a car, you’ll need to have a valid driving license to drive legally in the country. If you are a tourist, you will be required to carry with you your original driving license or an IDP (International Driving Permit). 

However, if you are spending more than six months in the UAE or you are in the process of becoming a lawful resident of this country, you’ll need to convert your foreign driving license into a UAE license.

Alongside your driving license, UAE law requires drivers to have at least third-party liability insurance. This basic insurance policy is designed to financially protect other people and properties damaged in an accident. 

However, most drivers in the UAE will opt for a comprehensive insurance policy, which will cover the damages reported by their own vehicle, passengers, and persona in a collision. 

No matter what the best policy for your needs might be, when getting car insurance in the UAE, it’s crucial to shop around and personalize your policy with add-ons and riders. Even more importantly, you’ll need to find an insurance provider who is certified by the Insurance Authority UAE.

If you are not sure about where to start, you can find accredited car insurance providers and policies on this page.

Just like in the case of any other country, getting behind the wheel in the Emirates will require drivers to learn the traffic laws and fines in UAE. 

Some of the most important road regulations to remember include:

While all drivers are required to respect the UAE’s driving laws, getting to grips with the local road customs and etiquette rules is just as important. 

Using rude hand gestures, swearing, and obscene language while driving can get drivers in trouble with the police and lead to significant fines. Additionally, drivers in the UAE should be prepared to share their lanes with livestock, camels, and drivers behind the wheel of a lawnmower. 

Pro tip - if you are visiting the UAE, you should be mindful when you decide to get on the road. For example, during rush hour and Ramadan, drivers tend to speed more than usual, which makes some high-traffic roads unsafe. 

Dubai is deemed to be the world’s supercar capital - and for more than one reason! But while it might be tempting to rent or buy a Lamborghini or a Ferrari, this isn’t always the best option. 

If you are planning to drive on unfamiliar roads, choosing a less expensive vehicle is a great way to avoid extra costs when renting a car in Dubai and safeguard your wallet from hefty repair costs!

Although the government of the UAE is working incessantly to increase viability and road conditions - especially in hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi - traffic and congestion are not unusual. 

If you are planning to use a car during your commute to work, you should consider checking beforehand for roadworks and using apps such as Waze, Here We Go, and UAE Traffic to avoid congestion. Avoiding rush hour times can also help!

Pro tip - Roads in the UAE are at their quietest on a Friday morning! Take advantage of this window when planning a road trip.