Is driving in Dubai really that horrendous? | ExpatWoman.com
 

Is driving in Dubai really that horrendous?

6
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2017 - 22:34

Hi we are moving out very soon. We will be living in the Arabain Ranches 1 and I'll be doing the school run to Arabain Ranches 2 which looks straight forward on the map. However, I keep reading how dangerous it is, especially the exits for Atabain Ranches. I've been to India and Africa and seen some crazy driving, I'm hoping it's not like that , as now I'm worried I won't be able to her about ......

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 June 2017 - 11:21
The most important thing you need is GPS, esp in the beginning or else you'll be on the road for ages.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2017 - 11:35
The driving isn't so bad for me it's the tickets that come with it! You get cited for so many things you wouldn't realize! But overall it's not so scary! Good luck!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 June 2017 - 09:44
Waze is a great sat nav app and tends to be spot on
8965
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 14 June 2017 - 09:39
Waze is a great sat nav app and tends to be spot on
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2017 - 16:31
Hi, You should be aware about the rules and regulations especially in Dubai.Earlier i was staying in Leeds,UK I loved the roads over there and it was really comfortable for me to drive with. But when i migrated to Dubai the roads became soo tough for me especially the roads in Al A'amal Street Dubai.You should be really careful.In my view what we need to have is self-confidence.Never be panic during risky situations,what all need to do is be calm , think wisely and choose the right decision. I still remember when i start to drive i too was scary but my husband gave me full confidence and even the road over here is tough then also now i became an expert.:cool:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2017 - 12:56
I feel much better now, thank you. I like the Friday morning tip too ?
6
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2017 - 12:55
Hi we are moving out very soon. We will be living in the Arabain Ranches 1 and I'll be doing the school run to Arabain Ranches 2 which looks straight forward on the map. However, I keep reading how dangerous it is, especially the exits for Atabain Ranches. I've been to India and Africa and seen some crazy driving, I'm hoping it's not like that , as now I'm worried I won't be able to her about ...... Just get yourself a Hummer H2 When we are in it they dont come anywhere near you :biggrin: This made me laugh out loud. A great idea!!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 June 2017 - 16:10
I came here from quiet sleepy roads in Scotland and drove straight away, you have to have your wits about you but it's ok, a little bit of patience against those who have one goes a long way...... the most difficult thing I found was finding your way about, I found Google Maps generally good, a few wrong turns but it gets you back on track again, but you soon get used to the roads you take frequently and under stand which direction you want to go. If you can I would suggest that your first drive should be a on Friday morning, the roads are very quiet, we did that and it made the first venture out less scary... Good luck, it's a breeze!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 June 2017 - 12:36
Hi, Don't be scared, just make sure you have enough oil in your tank and hit the road. At first you'll get lost missing the turns and signs, give yourself some time and you'll be the master!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 June 2017 - 09:22
For me, my advice for you is to stay calm because you became anxious whenever you are overthinking. For me, base on your previous experience, I know you can handle it :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 June 2017 - 10:45
I think it depends on your previous driving experience, for me I used to drive in Egypt so driving here is very easy and smooth for me! You say you've driven in India and Africa so I think you'll be able to cope very well inshallah :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 June 2017 - 01:06
Hi we are moving out very soon. We will be living in the Arabain Ranches 1 and I'll be doing the school run to Arabain Ranches 2 which looks straight forward on the map. However, I keep reading how dangerous it is, especially the exits for Atabain Ranches. I've been to India and Africa and seen some crazy driving, I'm hoping it's not like that , as now I'm worried I won't be able to her about ...... Just get yourself a Hummer H2 When we are in it they dont come anywhere near you :biggrin:
6
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 June 2017 - 21:50
Ah don't worry, Dubai driving is a bit manic at times, but if you keep your wits about you, you will be fine. If you have driven in India and Africa, Dubai will be a doddle. Mad, but a doddle. Whilst it is obviously not essential, a bigger car with a higher driving position such as a 4x4 / SUV type vehicle may give you more confidence as you can see what is going on around you a bit better than a lower, smaller car. Thank you both, that's put me at ease. I think I'll take your advice and take a taxi when going into town. Thanks again x
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 June 2017 - 10:58
Ah don't worry, Dubai driving is a bit manic at times, but if you keep your wits about you, you will be fine. If you have driven in India and Africa, Dubai will be a doddle. Mad, but a doddle. Whilst it is obviously not essential, a bigger car with a higher driving position such as a 4x4 / SUV type vehicle may give you more confidence as you can see what is going on around you a bit better than a lower, smaller car.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 June 2017 - 10:55
Hi, You do have to be extra careful when driving here in Dubai but it is not that bad once you get used to it and know your way around. I live next door in Motor City and often visit Arabian Ranches and it is not hard to get in and out. The problem with Dubai roads that I found is that the exits can be tricky and usually there is no turn around point so you really have to know your way around as google maps is not always correct here. I think living out this way is much better than the traffic from Marina or downtown, that is why we like it out here and it is easy to get in and out of. Just keep an extra eye out for other drivers as they are rude and won't let you pass or merge over but soon you will be one of them. No one is nice and let's you merge in or slows down. And watch the roundabouts as those are pretty dangerous, especially the one going into motor city and arabian ranches. Just take your time and always have your signal on when turning. You will be fine. Also taxis are really cheap here so if you are really worried then just call a taxi. I still take a taxi when going to areas that I don't know or I know are difficult with traffic. (I usually take a taxi when going to downtown, marina, bur dubai, deira) these areas are so congested and confusing with google maps. I hope this helps you...
 
 

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