Dubai is a megacity that hosts people from all over the world. The world-class airlines and the geographic positioning have Dubai on the map as a convenient stopover for flights, while the magnificent tourist attractions keep visitors for longer.
This population of people can be difficult to navigate, even with the massive structures and well-planned road network that accommodate them. The next best step to take is to maximize all the options available to ease transport in this hot spot, and you can do this by learning how to use them the Dubai way.
Learn the tips to get to all your destinations in a fast and stress-free way, whether by public transport or with your car after full-service auto detailing in a nearby garage to ensure it is safe for road use.
How to Navigate Dubai Roads
Dubai roads are relatively easy to navigate, as there are main artery roads and then bypasses to decongest the main roads. Dubai roads are wide enough and have the right traffic signs at necessary intervals for easy passage.
Some of the major Dubai roads include the Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311), amongst other large roads that keep the Emirates connected and lead to other key parts of the city. The “E” stands for “Emirate route” to indicate that it’s part of the United Arab Emirates’ national road network.
Here are some tips to make road use easier:
Use Navigation and GPS Apps
Applications like Google Maps and Waze will ensure you’re not stranded anywhere because of the accuracy of information.
The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has a smart drive app that has a special feature of still working online, which makes it ideal for tourists who may not have mobile data. It makes moving around easy, and since it’s a government project, it is reliable for newcomers.
Follow Dubai Driving Etiquette
To maintain modern roads such as Dubai’s, driving rules have to be strictly enforced and followed. For example, pay attention to the speed limits wherever you are, as the speed limits on the highways differ from those of residential areas, and failure to adhere will lead to fines.
Other common issues include the use of seatbelts, and no phone usage while driving, and they do not allow using your mobile phones on roads here. One particularly severe matter that can lead to arrest is drinking and driving, as no level of alcohol is tolerated.
Using Public Transport in Dubai the Right Way
In Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority works to ensure that matters of road and transportation run smoothly.
The many transportation modes include the Dubai metro, suitable for both tourists and residents, and the tram, which mainly serves tourists or visitors as they go to tourist attractions. There are also buses that go into farther neighborhoods, typically picking up from where the metro stops.
The final means of transport are the water transport media, like the Abras, which are wooden boats, and then the water buses and ferries, which give you a more scenic view of the waterside.
With all these systems of transport, there’s another app by the RTA that’s called the S’hail, which helps with knowing the routes each means of transport is and connecting them all.
There’s an innovative system used in the UAE across all means of transport called the NOL card. It is a rechargeable smart card used to pay for the rides.
Car Services in Dubai
This option is for those who prefer more flexibility and a higher level of comfort, as this is where you mention chauffeur services and self-drive rental cars, which are still coordinated by the RTA.
This is also where we talk about using a suitable car repair station or car repair service, preferably one recommended by the hiring companies.
Conclusion
Dubai’s massive and elaborate road network can be overwhelming for a newbie, but luckily, you have this guide to follow to avoid holdups, fines, and even arrests.
