Dubai is a city of contrasts, where urban skyscrapers meet vast desert landscapes, and luxurious experiences coexist with natural beauty. Many visitors and residents alike opt to Rent A Car Dubai to explore not only the city but also the surrounding Emirates and beyond. With scenic drives to locations like Abu Dhabi, the Hatta Mountains, and the Liwa Oasis, a long road trip offers the chance to see some of the UAE’s most breathtaking sights.
However, long drives in the UAE’s unique terrain require careful preparation. From ensuring the right vehicle is rented to planning your route and packing essential supplies, there are several steps to take to make sure your trip is safe, enjoyable, and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare for long drives when you rent a car in Dubai.
1. Choose the Right Vehicle for the Journey
One of the most critical aspects of preparing for a long drive is selecting the right rental vehicle. The UAE’s roads are excellent, but if you’re heading into desert areas or rougher terrains, you’ll need to ensure your vehicle can handle it.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Comfort: Long hours behind the wheel mean comfort should be a top priority. Opt for a vehicle with spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and advanced features like climate control and cruise control. Cars like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol are great options for long drives, offering both luxury and reliability.
- Fuel Efficiency: For long drives, especially if you’re traveling between Emirates or venturing into the desert, a fuel-efficient vehicle will help you save on costs. If you’re driving mainly on highways, consider renting cars like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, which are known for their fuel efficiency on long-distance trips.
- All-Terrain Capability: If your road trip involves desert driving or mountainous routes like those in Hatta, it’s essential to rent a 4×4 vehicle that can handle off-road conditions. Vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Raptor are ideal for these situations.
Tip: Always discuss your travel plans with the car rental agency. If you’re planning on driving off-road, make sure the rental terms cover such activities and that the vehicle is equipped with off-road tires.
2. Inspect the Vehicle Before the Trip
Before setting off on your long drive, it’s essential to thoroughly inspect the rental vehicle to ensure it’s in optimal condition for the journey. Even though rental cars are typically well-maintained, it’s always wise to double-check.
Key Things to Inspect:
- Tires: Check the tire pressure and tread condition. For long drives, especially in the desert or mountainous areas, proper tire inflation is crucial for both safety and fuel efficiency.
- Fluid Levels: Ensure that the car’s fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are at the appropriate levels.
- Lights and Indicators: Check that all headlights, brake lights, indicators, and interior lights are working properly.
- Brakes: Test the brakes before you embark on your journey. If the car feels like it has any brake issues, request a different vehicle from the rental agency.
Tip: Most reputable car rental companies in Dubai offer 24/7 roadside assistance, so make sure you have the company’s contact information and emergency service details before you leave.
3. Plan Your Route and Stops
Planning your route in advance is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable long drive. Dubai is connected by excellent highways, but if you’re traveling to more remote areas, like the Liwa Desert or Al Ain, proper route planning is essential to avoid getting lost.
Use Navigation Tools
Dubai’s roads are well signposted, and navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze work perfectly within the UAE. These apps provide real-time traffic updates, estimated travel times, and alternate routes in case of road closures or traffic jams.
- GPS Systems: If you’re heading to remote locations where cell service might be spotty, ensure your rental car is equipped with a built-in GPS system or download offline maps through apps like Google Maps or Maps.me.
Plan Rest Stops
Long drives can be tiring, so it’s important to schedule regular rest stops along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling during the summer months when temperatures can soar. Rest stops give you a chance to stretch your legs, refuel the car, and grab refreshments.
- Recommended Stops: If you’re driving from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, you can stop at Last Exit, a popular food truck park. On the way to Hatta, the Hatta Dam offers scenic views and a chance to relax before continuing your journey.
Tip: Avoid driving during peak traffic hours, especially if you’re traveling through central Dubai or on major highways like Sheikh Zayed Road. Traffic tends to be heavier during early morning and evening rush hours.
4. Pack the Essentials
When embarking on a long drive, especially in a rental car, you’ll need to pack wisely to ensure you have everything you need for the journey. Here’s a list of essentials to bring along:
Food and Water
Make sure you have plenty of drinking water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized throughout the drive. The UAE’s desert climate can be harsh, and staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’re traveling with children or making long stops in isolated areas.
Emergency Kit
Even though most car rentals in Dubai include roadside assistance, it’s always smart to pack an emergency kit that includes:
- A first-aid kit
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- A spare tire and tire jack
- A portable phone charger
- Maps or a GPS unit
Sun Protection
The UAE is known for its intense sunlight, so pack sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays, especially if you’ll be spending time outdoors during your stops.
Entertainment
For long drives, especially with family, consider bringing along entertainment options like music playlists, audiobooks, or portable devices for passengers to stay entertained. Most rental cars come equipped with Bluetooth and USB ports, making it easy to connect your devices.
Tip: If you’re planning to take a detour into the desert, pack extra water, sunblock, and an additional spare tire, as desert driving can be more demanding on your vehicle.
5. Follow Local Driving Laws and Etiquette
When you Rent A Car in Dubai, it’s essential to be aware of the local driving laws and road etiquette to ensure a smooth and safe journey. The UAE has strict traffic regulations, and following these rules will help you avoid fines or accidents.
Speed Limits
Dubai’s highways typically have speed limits ranging from 100 to 120 km/h, while urban roads have limits between 60 and 80 km/h. Always stay within the speed limit, as speed cameras are installed throughout the city and highways.
Overtaking and Lane Discipline
The left lane on highways is generally reserved for overtaking, so keep to the right unless you are overtaking a slower vehicle. Always signal when changing lanes, and avoid sudden lane changes as this can lead to accidents.
Avoid Using Your Phone While Driving
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in Dubai unless you have a hands-free device. If you need to make a call or check your GPS, it’s safer to pull over at a rest stop.
Use of Headlights
If you’re driving at night or through the desert, always ensure that your headlights are on. Low visibility areas like desert roads can be dangerous without proper lighting.
Tip: Respect the driving culture of Dubai. Be patient and cautious, especially in high-traffic areas where aggressive driving can sometimes occur.
6. Stay Safe in Extreme Conditions
Dubai and the UAE can experience extreme weather conditions, especially in the summer months when temperatures can reach over 40°C (104°F). Be prepared for these conditions, especially if your long drive takes you through the desert.
Stay Hydrated
As mentioned earlier, hydration is crucial in the UAE’s climate. Make sure everyone in the car has access to water, and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Beware of Sandstorms
If you’re driving through the desert, there is always the chance of encountering a sandstorm. These storms can reduce visibility to almost zero. If you find yourself caught in one, pull over safely, turn off your headlights, and wait for it to pass.
Use AC Wisely
While it’s tempting to keep the air conditioning on full blast, try to set it at a moderate level to avoid overworking the car’s engine, especially on long trips. Modern cars have efficient climate control systems that maintain a comfortable temperature without putting strain on the engine.
Conclusion
A long drive in Dubai and the UAE offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, from skyscrapers to desert oases. By preparing carefully—choosing the right vehicle, packing essential supplies, planning your route, and following local driving laws—you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. When you Rent A Car in Dubai, taking these steps will help you make the most of your road trip, whether you’re heading to Abu Dhabi, the Hatta Mountains, or the remote desert.
