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Holidays in the UAE – Top 5 Tips on renting a car
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Discover Beaches and Modern Cities with the most popular tourist attractions in the UAE. Popular holiday destination spots include Dubai, Al Ain, and the Palm Islands, which are the most known destinations. If you travel to the UAE, then looking into car rentals is a must which saves your time and budget.
In this article, we will look at the top 5 tips on car rentals in the UAE.
Top 5 Tips when renting a car in Dubai
Are you planning to travel to the UAE on your next holiday? It would help if you looked at the practicalities of Dubai car rentals. If you need to learn the language or area names, you can spare yourself the difficulties of working out the public transport system. It’s often very tiresome, and being able to jump straight into your car takes out a lot of stress. Its most advantageous feature is that you can get between cities and otherwise out-of-reach sights like the desert. A vehicle to rely on can make a big difference in what you pack in with your time out there.
Before going straight to online booking, consider these recommendations:
1. The Basic Driving Requirements in the UAE
To rent a car and be a driver on the roads of the UAE, first of all you will need these documents:
- A full driver’s license
- Valid insurance
- Passport
Also, note that rules may vary depending on whether you visit as a tourist or have Emirati citizenship. Luckily for tourists, any Rental Car Dubai usually includes the basic insurance in the rental price, so no worries here unless you want to upgrade to a more comprehensive one.
In the UAE, cars drive on the right-hand side. So, if your home country drives on the left, you’ll need to take on board that driving will be different and coordination alongside road signs too, and the highway code will be different as well.
Researching the matter and being fully prepared for a car rental in Dubai is very important. Generally speaking, mind the speed limits. The general speed limit in Abu Dhabi is 140 km/h whereas in the Northern Emirates and Dubai, the speed limit is 120km/h. Every Emirate with the exception of Abu Dhabi also has a speed buffer, allowing motorists to drive 20 km/h above the posted speed limit.
2. Use an RTA Dubai App
Apps like the RTA Smart App will help you navigate the UAE, alert you of bad traffic, and notify you of where to avoid it. Organising your road trips on map apps is crucial to minimise the stresses of getting lost and knowing confidently that you can reach your desired destination without a hitch. Ensure your phone has good volume as the Dubai app has voice sound.
3. The unusual place to drive and explore in the UAE
Jebel al Jaes, Ras al Khaimah
Jebel Jais Ras, Alkhaimah, is one of the tallest mountains in the UAE. Use your rental car to follow its dirt tracks and find all the outdoor thrill-seeking adventures. Its standard setting includes barren cliffs and deep canyons. Try out a Jebel Jais Zipline flight. It is situated at the top of Jebel Jais mountain peak, Ras Al Khaimah, in the north Emirate. If you love heights and adrenaline, ride the world’s longest zipline. Speeds are estimated to reach 120 – 150 kmph, where you can also view the canyons and range of mountain peaks. If you are an adventurer, be prepared to get your limits – and know it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you must stamp.
Al Hefaiyah Lake
It is a good location for a breathtaking view of mountain scenes. You can enjoy leisure activities such as kayaking, hiking, and boating. Remember to relax on the grass and enjoy your picnic with the local cuisine.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Dubai Creek Harbour is classified as a mega city. It’s situated on the banks of Dubai Creek, where you can view the impressive structures of both residential and commercial properties.
Some of the top activities include:
- A scenic Dhow Cruise, which includes live shows and a buffet dinner.
- Private creek harbor and water canal cruise.
- Powerboat training that provides level 2 certificates.
4. Mind the fines
If you’re caught speeding in Dubai, you may face heavy fines or other penalties, like imprisonment, if you have an accident. The rental companies don’t take any responsibility for you breaking the law. In case you need roadside assistance, feel free to contact your rental any time of day. Ensure you know the speed limits and cruise nicely, always keeping an eye on the road in front of you and both mirrors.
5. Stick to Road Rules
Easy-to-follow rules save lives like all occupants of a moving vehicle must wear seat belts or that children under 12 must be put in a seat for children (which can be extra rented from the rental company). Don’t use your phone or other devices that distract your attention from the road when driving. Whatever you do, never drive on the hard shoulder and overtake it. Don’t be swayed by other drivers’ behaviors, and stay strict about observation and holding a safe momentum. If you’re caught, fines can reach AED 1000.
If the car breaks down or has a flat tire, pull up on the hard shoulder and make sure you’re behind the safety barrier. You should have emergency numbers from the car rental place and contact them directly in case of an emergency.
Summary
We’ve covered some basic standards for a rental car in Dubai. Once you’ve done all of the preparation, it’s worth it for the exhilarating experience you can endure in the UAE. It will be unforgettable and a place you’ve never visited before.
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