Top tips for driving during a sandstorm in Dubai
A sandstorm in Dubai is not just an inconvenience or an annoying phenomenon, but a serious challenge for any driver. The visibility is significantly reduced, turning a familiar route into a difficult section, and the gusts of wind and sand put not only the vehicle but also the driver’s endurance to the test. Preparing for such a situation requires thorough planning, from diagnosing the vehicle’s technical condition to carefully studying the route and weather forecast.
1. You should make sure that all car systems are working properly: brakes, lights, wipers, and air conditioning. A full fuel tank is not an unnecessary luxury, but a necessity, as driving during a storm can significantly increase your travel time. Bring enough drinking water and food, as well as a first aid kit with medications. Make sure to charge your mobile phone and have access to navigation apps.
2. During a storm, the most important thing is not to panic and to drive at a low speed. Use your low beam and fog lights to make yourself visible to other road users. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to give yourself more room to maneuver. Avoid sudden steering movements and sudden braking.
3. If visibility is critically reduced, it is best to stop in a safe place, such as a gas station or parking lot, and wait for the storm to pass. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your location. Close all windows and vents tightly to minimize the amount of sand that enters your vehicle.
4. After the storm has passed, inspect your vehicle for any damage. Sand can cause paint damage and clog air filters. It is recommended to use a car wash service to thoroughly clean your vehicle from sand and dust.
Remember that safety comes first, and you shouldn’t put yourself at risk for a small time-saving benefit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
For non-residents:
International driving license
Local driving license of the country of origin
Passport
For UAE residents:
Passport
Emirates ID
Local driving license
RENT AND PAYMENT
Rent
Cars can be rented both on a daily basis and comprehensively, for a week, two weeks, a month, or more.
Payment
Payment can be made in cash, VISA, MasterCard, Russian cards or cryptocurrency.
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Full coverage.
Free in Dubai.
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Docs
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1+ years
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from 21+ years (depending on the car)
