Landing in the UAE for the first time can feel like stepping into the future. Skyscrapers that look straight out of a sci-fi movie, highways smoother than anything back home, and cities that somehow balance luxury, tradition, and pure ambition. If this is your first visit, here’s the straight talk you actually need. And yes, right off the bat: rent a car Abu Dhabi is a phrase you’ll want to remember, because it can seriously upgrade your entire trip.
What the UAE Is Really Like for First-Timers
The United Arab Emirates is not just Dubai. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, and the smaller emirates all have their own vibe. What they share is top-tier infrastructure, strict laws, and a lifestyle that’s built around movement. Distances can be deceiving. Something that looks “close” on the map might take 25–30 minutes to get to, even without traffic.
Public transport exists, but it’s not always convenient, especially if you’re trying to explore beyond tourist hotspots. Taxis are everywhere, but those costs add up fast. This is why so many travelers quickly realize that relying on rides alone is a rookie mistake.
Why Renting a Car Just Makes Sense Here
The UAE is a car country. Period. Roads are wide, signage is clear (in English too), and driving feels surprisingly chill once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re in Abu Dhabi heading to the Corniche, cruising to Yas Island, or taking a road trip to Dubai, having your own car gives you freedom you just can’t get otherwise.
If you’re thinking, “Do I really need one?”—the honest answer for most visitors is yes. Renting a car means no waiting, no negotiating fares, and no stressing about schedules. You move on your time. Want to hit a desert café at sunset or grab late-night shawarma? No problem.
Driving in the UAE: What to Expect
Driving rules are strict, but simple. Speed limits are clearly posted, cameras are everywhere, and fines are real. That sounds intense, but it actually makes driving predictable and safe. People generally follow the rules, and the roads are extremely well maintained.
If you’re from the US, driving here won’t feel foreign. Automatic cars are the norm, fuel is cheap compared to the States, and navigation apps work perfectly. Just remember: patience is key, and aggressive driving is a no-go.
Exploring Beyond the Tourist Bubble
One of the biggest reasons to rent a car is access. Some of the best experiences in the UAE aren’t on a metro line. Think quiet beaches, desert viewpoints, hidden food spots, and weekend road trips between emirates. Abu Dhabi to Dubai is an easy drive, and along the way you’ll see a side of the country most tourists miss.
Without a car, you’re stuck choosing destinations based on transportation. With a car, you choose based on curiosity. Huge difference.
Cultural Basics You Should Know
The UAE is modern, but respect still matters. Dress reasonably in public places, don’t film people without permission, and be mindful of local customs. Alcohol is allowed in licensed places, but public behavior should stay low-key. When driving, zero tolerance means zero tolerance—don’t even think about getting behind the wheel after drinking.
Is Renting Complicated? Not Really.
The process is straightforward. You’ll typically need your passport, a valid driver’s license, and sometimes an international driving permit depending on where you’re from. Insurance options are available, and most rentals are automatic, clean, and well maintained.
Compared to the cost of constant taxis or ride-hailing apps, renting often ends up being the smarter move, especially for stays longer than a couple of days.
Final Take
If this is your first time in the UAE, do yourself a favor: plan beyond the hotel, beyond the mall, beyond the obvious. The country is built to be explored, and exploring is way easier when you’re not dependent on someone else’s wheels.
The UAE rewards travelers who move around, stay curious, and don’t limit themselves. So read this, get oriented, and then seriously consider getting a car. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about seeing the UAE the way it’s meant to be seen.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
