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  • 1. Are there any special requirements for driving in UAE?

    Cars in the United Arab Emirates drive on the right hand side of the road with overtaking on the left.

  • 2. What are the Driving Laws?

    • Seat Belt Laws- The driver and the person seated next to the driver must wear a seat belt (Article 33, Executive By-Law; UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995)
    • Drinking and Driving- Because of the religious restrictions on alcohol, it's no surprise to find that the alcohol limit for driving is zero.

  • 3. What Documents are required?

    • It's necessary for everyone who intends to drive in the UAE to have an international drivers' licence to accompany their own licence. If you are an expatriate resident of the UAE you must obtain a local licence.
    • Whilst no other documents are compulsory, it's useful to carry the vehicle registration document, proof of insurance and proof of identity.
    • New driving licenses in Dubai will only be valid for 1 year (renewable), at least for the first 3 years, according to the RTA. On the fourth renewal, drivers will get a licence that is valid for 10 years (same as the current validity), as long as they have a relatively clean record. If, during the 1 year period, they have clocked up a bad driving record, they'll have to go back to Go and do another driving test. Exactly where the line is drawn between bad driving and not too bad, has not yet been detailed. Lucky residents with driving licenses from one of the countries that can do a Dubai licence exchange, will be exempt from this new rule. As the RTA governs traffic in Dubai only, it's unclear at the time of the news if other emirates will continue with new licences for 10 years, or make a similar change. No date seen for implementation of the new rule.
    • Note that if you want to drive a rental car in Dubai, you don't need to apply for a temporary licence but you do need to bring an IDP - International Driving Permit (required as of January 2007). The Dubai Police website seems to say (as of April 2009) that if you hold an IDP then your home country driving licence is not necessary but bring it just in case. Rental car companies may or may not ask for both.

  • 4. What are the Speed Limits?

    • Speed limits are very variable in the UAE. Some main roads have speed limits of 140 km/h, some are 120 km/h and some are 100 km/h. the usual limit for built-up areas is 80 km/h but slower in busy areas. There's a leeway of 20 km/h for roads with a 120 km/h limit effectively taking them up to 140 km/h but at that speed there are no further concessions. Based on a comprehensive research conducted by the Abu Dhabi Traffic and Patrol Police (ADTP) more safety controls have been introduced in 2011. The focus is on speed regulations for different road types across the Abu Dhabi Emirate. In a glance the speeding regulations as per 2011 are as follows:
    • Outside Abu Dhabi City, on the Abu Dhabi-Dubai and Abu Dhabi-Al Ain highways: 140km/h with an allowance of 20km/h.
    • Entrance of cities (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Madinat Zayed): 80 km/h.
    • Residential areas: between 20 and 40 km/h.
    • Speeding Zones
    • As of 2011, speed-changing zones have been introduced. To alert drivers about changes in speed limits the speed-changing zones are marked by a red asphalt colour and present greater friction for drivers. The zones introduced in 2011 and their speed limits are listed below (the limits include an allowance of 20km/h):
    •   Area   Street   Speed Limit  
        Abu Dhabi   Airport Road   60 km/h  
        Abu Dhabi Island   Muroor Road   60 km/h  
        Abu Dhabi City   Corniche   60 km/h  
        Maqta   Rashed Bin Saeed Street
      (from Al Maqta Bridge to Al Saada Street)      		   60 - 80 km/h*  
        Mussaffah   Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street
      (from Mussaffah Bridge to Al Saada Street)      		   100 km/h  
        Abu Dhabi Island   Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street   60 km/h  
        Al Khubeirah - Al Bateen   Baynuna Street
      (from Al Antra Roundabout to the Emirates Palace Roundabout)      		   40 – 60 km/h*  
        Al Ain   Om Al Oush Street   80 km/h  
    • * Depending on road section; please see signs and road zones. You must not exceed the maximum speed shown on a sign, taking into consideration the road, weather and vehicle conditions and related safety requirements. (Article 10.10, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).

  • 5. What is the Minimum Driving Age?

    • The minimum driving age is 18. Most car rental companies require you to be over 25 with some driving experience. Some allow you to be 23 but you'll have to pay a young drivers' excess to do so.

  • 6. Are Safety Camera Warning Devices allowed?

    • The use of safety camera warning devices is not illegal in the UAE but given the high accident rate, we recommend that you leave it at home and stick to the limit for your own safety and that of others. You must use lights during the day when visibility is poor. (Article 63, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995)

  • 7. What are the on the Spot Fines

    • Traffic police issue fine notices for minor offences. These can be up to £500. For more serious offences you'll be given a court summons and can face suspension of your licence, a bigger fine or even a jail sentence.
      Driving licenses have a 'black point' system in Dubai. Points can be given along with fines for a whole manner of traffic offences, most notably however is speeding. If 24 points are gained in one year then the driving license will be revoked for at least three months. It is possible to undertake driving courses in order to reduce points, although this is only at the discretion of the police.
      Driving whilst under the influence of alcohol incurs the greatest number of points (24) and penalties: your car will be confiscated and court proceedings will take place. If any alcohol has been consumed then taking a taxi or similar is advisable.

  • 8. Are there any Child Safety Rules?

    • Now no children under twelve can travel in the front unless they fit in an approved car seat that is rear facing with the airbag disabled. Children in the rear who are under twelve must have appropriate seats or booster seats and restraints.

  • 9. Is Insurance compulsory?

    • A minimum of third party insurance is required in the UAE.

  • 10. What are the Rules of the Road?

    • There are no specific rules you need to watch out for apart from the following:
      Be careful travelling on the roads outside of the cities as you'll have to share them with camels or livestock.
      Using obscene language or hand gestures can land you in prison, get you a large fine or even deportation.
    • You must not drive your vehicle when tired as you may become unable to control your car. (Article 10.7, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995)
    • High beam lights must only be used on highways which do not have overhead lighting when needed to improve the view ahead. They must not be used when another vehicle is coming from the opposite direction. (Article 65, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995)
    • Your vehicle must not be driven unless it is in good mechanical condition. (Article 34, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995) You must immediately give way to emergency vehicles which have either a siren sounding or flashing red and blue lights by keeping to the right side of the road, reducing speed and stopping if necessary. Priority must also be given to military vehicles when they proceed as convoys. (Article 4, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995)
    • You must drive carefully to prevent exposing other vehicles to any harm. You must indicate clearly your desire of changing direction by using the vehicle indicators when leaving or entering traffic, changing lanes right or left, turning right or left, making a U turn or reversing.
      1. You must ensure that you do not expose yourself or others to danger
      2. Take into consideration all other road users.
      3. Let other road users know of your intention of changing lanes by hand signals or with the vehicle indicators (Article 59, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).
      Drivers must always give way to pedestrians who are crossing the road you are turning into. (Article 36, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law No 21, 1995).
    • If someone is overtaking you, you must slow down and keep to the right. (Article 54, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995) You must not park a vehicle:
      • At places where there is no permission to park
      • At pedestrian crossings, on the footpath, on bridges, viaducts or in tunnels
      • Next to curves, on crests of hills or next to solid centre lines which cannot be crossed
      • Where it will impede any traffic signals, signs or road markings
      • In front of the entrance to houses, parking areas, petrol stations, hospitals, emergency stations, fire stations, police stations, military areas, schools or educational institutions
      • Places where you will block stationary vehicles from proceeding
      • Residential areas (if driving a heavy vehicle or heavy mechanical vehicle) unless they are used for construction
      • 15 metres from intersections or in front of public transport stations. (Article 49, Executive By-Law, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).

  • 11. Are there any Towing Regulations?

    • You'll find no specific laws or regulations for towing in the UAE but please make sure that the towed vehicle is securely attached and that other drivers are aware of your actions.

  • 12. Are Speed Cameras operative?

    • Tickets will be issued by traffic police unless you are considered to be driving dangerously when a court appearance is more likely.

  • 13. Is using Mobile Phones permitted when driving?

    • Despite almost everyone using mobile phones whilst driving, it is illegal to do so without a hands-free kit.

  • 14. What are the Parking?

    • Paid parking- In town it's best to go for garage parking as street parking isn't easy to find when the cities are so busy. If you find a spot, you can pay at a machine or you can use your mobile and a service called 'mParking' which also warns you when your ticket is about to expire
    • Enforcement- Traffic police will enforce bad or overdue parking with tickets and fines. Your car can be towed away if it is causing an obstruction.

  • 15. Are the Motor Way Signs different?

    • Road signs are similar to what you will find in Britain and are usually easy to understand. Motorway signs have a blue background and white writing. Signs are displayed in Arabic and English language. Available at https://dubaitrafficfines.net/dubai-road-signs.html.

  • 16. What are the sequences available for Traffic Lights?

    • Traffic lights in the UAE follow the rules of the Vienna Convention and the sequences will be familiar to most EU and US drivers.

  • 17. Where can we find Toll Roads?

    • There are some tolls to pay in United Arab Emirates - the Al Garhoud Bridge has a toll for crossing it and the Sheikh Zayad Road does too.

  • 18. Contact number in Emergency situation?

    • The police can be contacted on 999 or 112 and the medical services are on 998 or 999.

  • 19. What are the current Fuel Costs?

    • As of June 2014, the price of 95 octane unleaded petrol in the UAE is around 30p a litre. This rises to 32p for diesel.

  • 20. UAE Traffic Law and UAE Federal Traffic Council (FTC) information-

    • 01 Mar 2008 - new Unified Federal Traffic Law (Black Points Law) for the UAE takes effect with list of offences and punishments given in table below. New black point system also takes effect.
    • Prison sentences listed are maximum jail time. Not in original list of penalties. One month normally means 30 days, not 28 or 31 days.
    • Maximum black points limit is 24 within a one year period. If a traffic violation is made after reaching the black point limit, your driving licence is confiscated for the following periods of time:
      • 3 months confiscation after the first traffic violation when black point limit has been reached.
      • 6 months confiscation after the second traffic violation.
      • 12 months confiscation after the third traffic violation, and the driver must pass a driving course at a driving school under the authority of the emirate where the third violation was committed.
    • Speeding fines result in black points if doing more than 60km/hr above the speed limit (12 points) or more than 50km/hr above the limit (6 points). No black points if doing between 0-50km/hr above the speed limit.
    • Speeding fines increased from a flat rate of AED 200 per ticket to between AED 400 (less than 10km/hr over the limit) and AED 1,000 (more than 60kph over the limit - vehicle is also impounded for 30 days).
      Violation Fine Black Points Vehicle confiscated / Days
      1 Driving under the influence of alcohol Maximum fine of Dh20,000 or Jail 23 60
      2 Driving under the influence of drugs or similar substances. Decided by court License to be suspended for 1 year from the date of punishment completion 60
      3 Driving a vehicle without number plates. Dh3000 23 90
      4 Driving a heavy vehicle in a way that endangers his or other people's lives, harms public or private properties, jumping the red light, causing his or another vehicle to overturn Dh3000 License to be suspended for 1 year  
      5 Heavy vehicle not abiding by lane discipline. Dh1500 12  
      6 Driving a heavy vehicle that does not comply with safety and security conditions. Dh2000 6  
      7 Loading a heavy vehicle in a way that may cause danger to others or to the road. Dh2000 6  
      8 Entering road dangerously. Dh600 6  
      9 Causing death of others. Decided by court 23 60
      10 Not stopping after causing an accident that resulted in injuries with a light vehicle. Dh500 8 7
      11 Not stopping after causing an accident that resulted in injuries with a heavy vehicle. Dh1000 16  
      12 Failure for light vehicle to stop after causing an accident Dh500 8 7
      13 Failure for heavy vehicle to stop after causing an accident Dh1000 16  
      15 Exceeding maximum speed limit by more than 80km/hr for light vehicles Dh3000 23 60
      14 Exceeding maximum speed limit by more than 60km/hr. Dh2000 12 30
      25 Exceeding maximum speed limit by not more than 60km/hr. Dh1500 6 15
      26 Exceeding maximum speed limit by not more than 50km/hr. Dh1000    
      29 Exceeding maximum speed limit by not more than 40km/hr. Dh700    
      31 Exceeding maximum speed limit by not more than 30km/hr. Dh600    
      37 Exceeding maximum speed limit by not more than 20km/hr. Dh300    
      17 Driving in a way that endangers people Dh2000 23 60
      18 Jumping a red light for light vehicles Dh1000 12 30
      19 Jumping a red light for motor bikes Dh800 4 30
      20 Running away from a traffic policeman in a light vehicle Dh800 12 30
      21 Running away from a traffic policeman in a heavy vehicles Dh1000 16  
      22 Dangerous overtaking by heavy vehicles where it's prohibited Dh3000   1 year
      23 Causing a car to overturn by heavy vehicles Dh3000 1 year license suspension  
      24 Causing serious injuries. Decided by court 23 30
      27 Overtaking on the hard shoulder. Dh1000 6  
      28 Overtaking from a prohibited place. Dh600    
      30 Parking in fire hydrant places, spaces allocated for people with special needs and ambulance parking. Dh1000 6  
      32 Driving against traffic. Dh600 4  
      33 Allowing children under 10 years old or shorter 145 cm to sit in the front seat of a vehicle. Dh400    
      34 Failure to fasten seat belt while driving for all passengers. Dh400 4  
      35 Failure to leave a safe distance. Dh400 4  
      36 Failure to follow the directions of the policeman. Dh400 4  
      38 Entering a road without ensuring that it is clear. Dh400 4  
      39 Exceeding permitted level of car window tinting. Dh1500    
      40 Not giving way to emergency, police and public service vehicles or official convoys. Dh1000 6  
      41 Driving a noisy vehicle. Dh2000 6  
      42 Allowing others to drive a vehicle for which they are unlicensed. Dh500   7
      43 Overload or protruding load from a heavy vehicle without permission. Dh3000 12  
      44 Driving a vehicle that causes pollution. Dh1000 6  
      45 Stopping on the road for no reason. Dh1000 6  
      46 Stopping on a yellow box. Dh500    
      47 Not giving pedestrians way on pedestrian crossings. Dh500 6  
      48 Failure to abide by traffic signs and directions. Dh500    
      49 Throwing waste from vehicles onto roads. Dh1000 6  
      50 Stopping vehicle on the left side of the road in prohibited places. Dh1000    
      51 Stopping vehicle on pedestrian crossing. Dh500    
      52 Teaching driving in a training vehicle that does not bear a learning sign. Dh500    
      53 Teaching driving in a non training vehicle without permission from licensing authority. Dh500    
      54 Placing marks on the road that may damage the road or block traffic. Dh500    
      55 Operating industrial, construction and mechanical vehicles and tractors without permission Dh500   7
      56 Modifying vehicle's engine without permission. Dh1000 12 30
      57 Changing vehicle's color without permission. Dh800    
      59 Driving with a driving license issued by a foreign country except in permitted cases. Dh400    
      61 Parking behind vehicles and blocking their movement. Dh500    
      62 Towing a vehicle or a boat with an unprepared vehicle. Dh1000    
      64 No lights on the back or sides of trailer container. Dh400 2  
      65 Lights on the back or sides of container not working. Dh400 6  
      66 Taxis, which have designated pickup areas, stopping in undesignated places. Dh500 4  
      67 Prohibited entry of heavy vihicles Dh1000 4  
      68 Blocking traffic Dh1000   6
      69 Vehicle unfit for driving. Dh500   7
      70 Driving a light vehicle that does not comply with safety and security conditions. Dh200   7
      71 Not lifting exhaust of trucks. Dh1500    
      72 Not covering loads of trucks. Dh3000    
      74 Heavy vehicle prohibited entry. Dh1000 4  
      75 Violating loading or unloading regulations in parking. Dh1000 4  
      76 Carrying and transporting passengers illegally. Dh3000 24 30
      77 Writing phrases or placing stickers on vehicle without permission. Dh500    
      78 Not taking road safety measures during vehicle breakdowns Dh500    
      79 U turn from undesignated areas of incorrectly Dh500 4  
      80 Loading a light vehicle in a way that may pose a danger to others or to the road. Dh500 4  
      81 Stopping vehicle without keeping the distance specified by the law from a curve or junction. Dh500    
      82 Transporting passengers by vehicle undesignated for this purpose. Dh1000 4  
      83 Sudden swerve. Dh1000 4  
      84 Driving on lanes meant for buses or taxis Dh400    
      85 Driving a taxi without required license. Dh200 4  
      86 Carrying passengers in driving training vehicle. Dh200 4  
      87 Driving a taxi with an expired warranty. Dh200    
      88 Reversing dangerously. Dh400 4  
      89 Taxi refusing to carry passengers. Dh200 4  
      90 Parking illegally Dh500    
      91 Parking in loading and offloading areas Dh200    
      92 Parking on the left hand shoulder of road in prohibited areas Dh1000    
      93 Parking without securing the car Dh500    
      94 Using multi-colored lights. Dh200    
      95 Not wearing helmet while driving motorbike. Dh500 4  
      96 Exceeding passenger limit. Dh500 4 7
      97 Expired tires Dh500 4 7
      98 Driving with an expired registration Dh500 4 7 (if registration expired more than 3 months ago)
      99 Driving unlicensed vehicle. Dh5 00    
      100 Violation of laws of using commercial number plates. Dh500   7
      101 Light vehicle dropping or spilling load Dh500    
      103 Driving with one number plate or faded numbers on plate Dh400    
      104 Driving at night or in foggy weather without lights. Dh500 4  
      106 Not fixing reflective stickers at the back of trucks and heavy vehicles. Dh500    
      107 Not using indicators when changing direction or turning. Dh400    
      108 Not giving way for vehicles to pass on the left. Dh400    
      113 Overtaking dangerously Dh600 6  
      114 Driving an unlicensed vehicle. Dh500 4 7
      119 Parking vehicles on pavement. Dh400    
      129 Driving below minimum speed limit. Dh400    
      131 Using hand-held mobile phone while driving or being distracted in any way Dh800 4  
      138 Using horn in a disturbing way. Dh400 4  
      140 Failure to hand over a driving license when the maximum black points are accrued in the first traffic violation Dh1000    
      141 Failure to hand over a driving license when the maximum black points are accrued in the second traffic violation Dh2000    
      142 Failure to hand over a driving license when the maximum black points are accrued in the third traffic violation Dh3000    
      143 Failure to pick up confiscated car once the confiscation period is over Dh50 a day maximum of Dh3000    
      144 Failure to pick up confiscated heavy vehicle once the confiscation period is over Dh100 a day, maximumDh3000    
      145 Overloading a light vehicle Dh500 4  
      146 Driving school vehicles in times and areas that are prohibited Dh400    
      147 Teaching someone to drive in a car that is not labelled as learning vehicle, or teaching without a license Dh500    
      148 Not presenting a learners permit Dh300    
      149 Broken or absence of back or sidelights on the tow truck Dh500 4  
      150 Participating in a motorcade without a permit Dh500 4 15
      151 Pedestrian's failure to abide by signals, or crossing from undesignated areas Dh400    
      152 Schoolbus driver failing to activate the stop sign or abide by traffic instructions Dh500 6  
      153 Driver failing to stop when the bus drivers activates the stop sign. Dh1000 10  
      154 Using a leisure bike with three or more wheels Dh3,000   90
      155 Transporting inflammable ale or dangerous materials without permission Dh3,000 24 60
      156 Failutre to take safety precautions when the car breaks down Dh500    
      157 Failure to get the car technically tested after any major engine or Shasi modifications Dh400    
      158 Broken Car lights Dh400 6  
      159 Disregarding policeman's instructions Dh400 4  
      160 Failure to fix chid seats for children under 4 years Dh400    
      161 Faulire to give priority to emergency , police and protocol vehicles Dh1000 6  
      162 Stopping at Zebra crossings Dh500    
      163 Stopping vehicles and road turns Dh500    
      164 Parking in a way without securing the car Dh500    
      165 Parking on pavements Dh400    
      166 Writing or posting on the vehicle without a permit Dh500    
      167 Faiure to abide by traffic signs Dh500    
      168 Literring from vehicle windows while driving Dh1000 6  
      169 Rubber neck and crowds at the scenes of traffic accident Dh1000    
      170 Driving a heavy vehicle dangerously in a way that endangers his or other people's lives Dh3,000   License to be suspended for one year
      171 Driving a heavy vehicle in a way that harms public or private properties Dh3,000   License to be suspended for one year
      172 Heavy vehicle jumping the red light Dh3,000   License to be suspended for one year
      173 Heavy vehicle causing his or another vehicle to overturn Dh3,000   License to be suspended for one year
      174 Driving industrial, construction and mechanical equipment without a license Dh1,500    
      175 Heavy vehicle overtaking in areas where it is prohibited Dh3,000   License to be suspended for one year
      176 Driving a heavy vehicle that does not abide by safety standards Dh2,000 6  
      177 A driving an uninsiured vehicle Dh500 4 7
      178 Driving a vehicle on a different license for a different type of vehicle Dh400 12  
      179 Driving a vehicle that does not abide by safety standards Dh500    
      180 Driving a vehicle that is unfit for driving Dh500    
      181 Driving a vehicle at below the minimum speed set for the road (if any) Dh400    
      Note : The above mention traffic fine are for reference perpose only and may change as per RTA Policy.
    • UAE traffic law amendments and proposals
    • Note that approval by the UAE Federal Traffic Council does not mean a new law is in effect. The amendments still have to go to the UAE Federal Cabinet and/or the UAE Ministry of Interior before becoming law. Time frame for proposed changes could be months, years, or never.
      • 28 Dec 2014 - Dubai RTA announced automatic AED 600 penalty for private vehicles using dedicated bus lanes from 01 Jan 2014 to 31 Mar 2014. First phase would place cameras on Naif Rd. Dubai Police patrols would also hand out fines. Announcement didn't say what would happen after the end of the period. Vehicles permitted to use the dedicated bus lanes are public buses, taxis, Dubai Police, Civil Defence, and ambulances on emergency calls. Private vehicles can use dedicated lanes to enter or exit adjoining roads.
      • 17 May 2014 - Abu Dhabi Traffic Police announced a revised punishment for overtaking on the hard shoulder, reportedly applicable to all UAE emirates, of 600 dhs fine (unchanged), 10 black points (increase from 6 points), and a prison sentence of up to one month for offenders. Date new punshments take effect not provided.
      • 19 Apr 2014 - Major General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen said the council had proposed increased penalties for:
        • Drivers speeding more than 60kph over the speed limit, vehicles confiscated for 2 months instead of 1 month, fine increased from AED 1,000 to AED 2,000, and 12 black points (unchanged).
        • Smoking inside a private vehicle punishable by AED 200 fine and 4 black points.
        • Heavy vehicle (over 3 tonnes) drivers going through a red light penalty of AED 5,000 fine and 23 black points (increased from 12 points).
      • 13 Apr 2014 (Emarat Al Youm) - Major General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen said proposals under consideration included:
        • Women adding make-up while driving their cars
        • Men getting dressed or putting on their gutra while driving
        • Eating, drinking, or reading while driving
        • Speaking or texting by mobile phones while driving
        • Wearing sunglasses at night while driving
        • *Law enforcement officials not permitted to issue seat belt fines in the absence of drivers. What? We didn't get it.
      • 16 Feb 2014 - UAE Traffic Council approved proposal to lower minimum driving age from 18 to 17 years old.
      • 04 Feb 2014 - Salah Bu Farousha Al Falasi, head of the Dubai Traffic Prosecution department, was reported to have said at a media conference that a proposal had been sent to the UAE Ministry of Interior to "amend amend the Traffic Law by introducing new and specific articles pertaining to fatal accidents caused by jumping a red signal" (Gulf News and other reports). Specifically :
        • Jail for 3-7 years and AED 30,000 fine if 3 or more people killed after going through a red light.
        • Jail for minimum 1 year and AED 20,000 fine if 1 or 2 people killed.
      • 09 Nov 2013 - new federal UAE Traffic Council to be formed to consider traffic related issues in the UAE including amendments to UAE Traffic Law. New proposals to be presented to the UAE Cabinet. Council chairman will be Major-General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen (Al Zafin), he is:
        • Director General of the Dubai Police Traffic Department
        • Assistant Police Commander for Operations in Dubai
        • now also Head of the UAE Federal Traffic Council

  • 21. Car Rentals Policy

    • Not Allowed to Take Outside UAE- The rented vehicle is not allowed to be driven outside the UAE. It is strictly not allowed to take rented car while crossing the border.
    • Insurance Policy- Lost or any damage to the vehicle will not be covered in insurance policy.
    • Charges and Security Deposits Should be Paid in Advance- Most of rental companies has the policy that you should pay charges and security deposit for the vehicle in advance. It is advisable to pay the advance through check or Credit Card.
    • Registered Driving License- Drivers should possess registered driving license. If you own International Driving License or have Driving License from reputed countries, You don't need to get UAE driving license to drive on UAE roads.
    • Minimum Age Limit- Age limit for driver is minimum 25 years.
    • Accident & Break Down Policy- In case of accident the renter must notify the police. If the vehicle gets damaged in an accident the rental company may charge you for the loss despite the fact if it was not your fault. Also In case your car doesn't work properly or breaks down, you must contact the company immediately otherwise they may charge you for the damage.
    • Traffic Fine Policy- If the driver was charged with some traffic fine, the company will recover it from security deposit.
    • Additional Facilities Charges- Additional Charges are applied for facilities like driver, navigation system etc.
  • 22. When can the insurance company be exempted from paying compensation for loss or damage of the vehicle
    • If the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.
    • If the driver does not hold a driving licence.
    • No compensation for damaged tyres if the car was not damaged.
    • Damage or defect or breakage which may affect mechanical or electrical devices.
    • Damage resulting from heavy load of goods or passengers above authorised limits, provided the heavy load is the main reason for the accident.
    • Damage of vehicles resulting from using it for purposes other than as specified in the insurance policy.
    • The insurance company also need not compensate in cases of violation of traffic laws, particularly if the offence involved a felony or intentional misdemeanour.
  • The insurance company has the right to claim compensation received by the insured in the following five cases:
    • If it is proved that the insurance contract was built on false information given by the insured, or that s/he concealed important facts affecting the acceptance of the risk by the insurance company or affecting the premium or conditions of insurance.
    • If the vehicle is used for a purpose other than that set forth in the insurance policy, or if the car is over loaded beyond the allowed limits of width or length or height.
    • If the driver - whether the insured person or someone was driving the vehicle -- was not holding a driving licence for the type of the damaged vehicle.
    • If it was proved that death or injury caused by the driver of the insured car was intentional and premeditated.
    • If the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
    • Also, the insurance company need not entertain claims filed three years after the accident.
  • 23. Haw to do Renewal of Car Registration?
    You need to renew your car registration once every year. If you have purchased a new vehicle, the dealer will handle all formalities for the first year. From the second year onwards, you will have to renew your car registration. You can renew your car registration or driving license from any other emirate, irrespective of the origin of documents or the vehicle. You can also renew your car registration from selected insurance companies. These include Noor Takaful, Oman Insurance, Fujairah Insurance & RSA Insurance. The insurance companies would be using the same procedure and online facilities to provide the service that are being used by the RTA's customer service centres and other approved agents like Tasjeel, Tamam etc.
    Documents Required:
    1. Motor vehicle insurance certificate.
    2. Old registration card.
    3. "Passed" car test certificate.
    Procedure:
    1. Settle the payment of fines (if found); you can check and pay any fine at the Dubai Police website.
    2. Go to Dubai Traffic Department /other emirates traffic department or to (Tasjeel Eppco, Emarat Shamil or Belhasa's Wasel to have the car tested.
    3. Pay the fees.
    4. Wait for your registration card (valid for one year). In case your car is no longer financed by a bank, show the bank clearance certificate.
    5. Take a sticker with the new registration expiry date and place it over the old one (on the rear number plate).
    Fees:
    1. Car test AED 120
    2. Registration AED 340
    Dubai.ae tips:
    1. New vehicles are exempted from test for 2 consecutive years.
    2. Some companies will do all procedures for an additional fee, including collecting and returning the vehicle to you. You can also check with your insurance company, since many have introduced a free/paid service.
    3. If you don't have the time to do your car registration, the RTA has a special service called 'Personal Appearance Service'. You do a one-time visit to any RTA customer service centre, register your personal details and receive a personal identification number (PIN) on your mobile. You can then send a representative with this PIN to do your RTA licensing work, whether it is for one car or multiple cars under your name. Other transactions that can be done with a PIN include export, transfer and number plate sale, though it must be noted that after your representative's visit, the PIN expires and for further visits, you will need to do another 'Personal Appearance Service' to get another PIN.
  • 24. No Objection Certificate for Transferring a Driving Licence to Abu Dhabi
    Steps :- Please follow the steps below:
    1. Submit the application and the required documents at the customer services centers of the Drivers Licensing Department.
    2. Receive the certificate from the customer services centers of the Drivers Licensing Department.
    Required documents:
    1. Original Driving license to be transferred.
    2. One Personal photo.
    3. Original Emirates ID.
  • 25. Enquiry about Registered Vehicles and its Data
    Steps :-
    1. Submit the application along with the required documents at the Trade Licences Section or Vehicles Registration Section.
    2. Receive a checklist with the registered vehicles or vehicles data based on the request.
    Required documents:
    1. Original or copy of the Driving licence.
    2. Original or copy of the Vehicles registration.
    3. Original or copy of the Emirates ID.
  • 26. Reporting Lost Plates of Vehicles under Testing
    Steps :-
    1. Submit the application along with the required documents at the Trade Licences Section.
    2. Pay the Traffic fines.
    Required documents:
    1. Original Application.
    2. Copy of the Sale contract.
    3. Copy of the authorized signatory.
    Fees:
    Reporting lost plates of vehicles under testing: 1000 AED on each plate.
  • 27. Traffic Violations Transfer from the Vehicle Plates under Testing
    Steps :-
    1. Submit the application along with the required documents at the Trade Licences Section.
    2. Receive a confirmation on the transfer of the traffic violations.
    Required documents:
    1. Original Application from the beneficiary requesting the transfer of traffic violations.
    2. Copy of the Sale contract.
    3. Copy of the authorized signatory.
    4. Copy of the Authorised signatory or power of attorney.
    5. Copy of the PRO card issued by the Vehicles Licensing Department.
    Special Conditions:
    The traffic violations transfer is possible only within 45 days from the day the violation occurred.
  • 28. Under Testing Vehicle Plates Issuance and Renewal
    Steps :-
    Submit the application along with the required documents at the Trade Licences Section.
    1. Sign on the applications and commitments that govern the work with the plates for vehicles under testing.
    2. Pay the Traffic fines.
    3. Receive a letter for the issuance or renewal of plates of vehicles under test.
    Required documents:
    1. Original Application from the beneficiary requesting the issuance of specified number of vehicle plates under test.
    2. Original Bank guarantee based on the number of vehicle plates.
    3. Original Bank guarantee based on the number of vehicle plates.
    4. Original Insurance policy for the vehicle plates.
    5. Copy of the Rental contract.
    6. Copy of the Trade licence.
    7. Copy of the Authorised signatory.
    Fees:
    1. Under testing vehicle plates issuance and renewal: 50 AED for the issuance of each plate.
    2. Financial guarantee: 1000 AED for each plate.
  • 29. Pay Traffic Fines
    Steps :-
    Please click here for the e-Service or follow the steps below
    1. Report to the Vehicles and Drivers Licensing Department, Traffic Fines Section.
    2. Submit the vehicle ownership form or driving licence or vehicle or licence number.
    3. Pay the penalty fee.
    4. Receive the receipt and release order.
    Required documents:
    1. Original Violation receipt.
    2. Original or copy of the Vehicle registration.
    3. Original or copy of the Emirates ID.
  • 30. Approval for Vehicles Registration for Foreign Companies
    Steps :-
    1. Submit the required documents at the Vehicle Renting Department.
    2. Receive the approval.
    Required documents:
    1. Copy Trade licence.
    2. Copy Authorised signature.
    3. Copy ADCCI membership.
    4. Copy Contracts of the projects under construction.
    5. Copy Vehicles' customs list, test and insurance.
  • 31. Citizens Vehicles Rental to Companies
    Steps :-
    1. Submit the required documents at the Vehicle Renting Department.
    2. Receive the confirmation on the availability of a renting company or not.
    Required documents:
    Original Letter from the company addressed to the Vehicle Renting Department listing the vehicles' numbers and categories, location and duration of the security pass.
    1. Copy Family book Issued from Abu Dhabi Emirate.
    2. Copy of valid Vehicle registration in the public category.
    3. Original No objection certificate Issued by the Ministry of Social Affairs.
  • 32. Traffic Points Enquiry
    Steps :-
    1. Visit the Traffic Violations & Felonies Department in the Directorate of Traffic & Patrols.
    2. Present the driving licence.
    3. Receive a checklist on the traffic points.
    Required documents:
    1. Original or Copy of the Driving Licence.
  • 33. Exchanging home country licence without driving test
    1. Get a UAE residence visa stamped in your passport first.
    2. Collect the following documents (copies might not be necessary but chance of needing them increases if you don't have them):
      • Home country driving licence with copy.
      • Two passport sized photos.
      • Passport with residence visa and copies.
      • 300-400 dhs cash (it's probably about 300 dhs or less). Bring cash, not cheque or credit card.
    3. You will need to do an eye test. In Dubai sometimes this can be done at an optician approved by the Dubai RTA (most shopping malls will have a glasses shop where this is possible). Sometimes this is done at the RTA traffic department. It seems that as soon as we update this page the policy changes to the opposite of what we say. Go to a shopping mall on your way to get a driving licence, go to a spectacles shop and ask if you can do the eye test. If you have to do it at the RTA they'll tell you.
    4. In Dubai visit an RTA traffic office. In other emirates visit the traffic police department.
    5. Go to the driving licence counter and fill in an application form. You might have to pay money at a separate counter. Then wait while driving licence is printed and issued.
    6. In Dubai visit an RTA traffic office. In other emirates visit the traffic police department.
    7. Remember to ask for your home country licence to be returned to you - it should be given back at the same time.

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